Dan Skelton capped an extraordinary campaign at Perth with a win that secured a victory at every National Hunt course in Britain for the current season. The triumph came aboard Heltenham, the 15‑8 favourite, who delivered a perfectly timed run to win the Bedmax Capercaillie Handicap Chase by one and three‑quarter lengths. This achievement follows a period of near‑misses at the hands of rival trainer Willie Mullins over the past two years, and it brings Skelton’s prize‑money earnings close to the £5 million mark as he pushes toward his first champion‑trainer title. The milestone was highlighted by Skelton’s own words on Racing TV, where he described the feat as "quite incredible" and admitted that it had never been part of his original plan.
He explained that only four tracks remained unclaimed at the time, with Musselburgh being the final missing venue. Although Skelton had not traditionally entered horses at Musselburgh, owner Jimmy Fyffe urged him to give Made U Blush a chance there. The mare won, prompting Skelton to reconsider his strategy and ultimately target the remaining courses.
He noted that it took 21 runners to secure a win at Plumpton, but fewer attempts were needed at Perth, and he expressed deep gratitude to his team, the owners, and everyone who supported the endeavour. Skelton also mentioned that he sometimes sets "silly or ridiculous" targets, but these ambitions serve as a powerful motivator. The card at Perth featured several other notable stories.
No Drama This End, a six‑year‑old trained by Paul Nicholls, ended his hurdling career on a high note by winning the Listed British EBF Gold Castle National Hunt Novices' Hurdle. After a disappointing run at the Cheltenham Festival, where he was pulled up in the Turners Novices' Hurdle, the horse rebounded north of the border, delivering owner‑partner JP McManus his 100th victory of the season. Nicholls praised the horse’s potential, saying he will transition to chasing in November and is likely to become a strong stayer over three miles.
Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore also celebrated a win with Apple Away, who secured a place in the French Champion Hurdle by rallying late to win the Fair Maid Of Perth Mares' Chase. The race turned dramatic when Skelton’s Panic Attack, returning swiftly after being unseated at the third fence of the Grand National, appeared to dominate the final stretch, putting Apple Away under pressure. However, Derek Fox rode the 4‑1 chance to a one‑and‑quarter‑length victory over Ruby Island, delivering Russell an emotional moment.
She was described as "the most phenomenal mare" with an indomitable spirit, and Russell expressed confidence ahead of the upcoming French Champion Hurdle, noting that the mare’s heart and determination set her apart. Olly Murphy enjoyed a personal treble on the day, guiding three different winners. Gee Force Flyer took the Welcome To The Perth Festival Maiden Hurdle, Barlovento captured the Balnakeilly Novices' Limited Handicap Chase, and Atlantic City triumphed in the Scone Palace Mares' Handicap Hurdle. Each victory added to the festive atmosphere and underscored the depth of talent present at the meeting.
Skelton’s achievement of winning at all 41 National Hunt circuits is historic. It reflects not only his skill as a trainer but also the collaborative effort of owners, jockeys, and stable staff.
The journey involved strategic entries, careful horse placement, and a willingness to take calculated risks—such as sending a single runner to Musselburgh or persisting with a large field at Plumpton until a winner emerged. The success also highlights the competitive nature of British jump racing, where trainers must adapt to a variety of track conditions, distances, and local nuances. Looking ahead, Skelton’s focus will likely shift to maintaining his momentum in the latter part of the season, targeting key festivals and high‑profile handicaps.
The prize‑money tally suggests he is well‑positioned to challenge for the champion‑trainer title, a goal that has eluded him despite his consistent performances. His willingness to set ambitious targets may continue to drive his operation, fostering a culture of continual improvement and innovation. For the broader racing community, Skelton’s sweep serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and strategic planning. It demonstrates that even in a sport steeped in tradition, there is room for fresh milestones and that a trainer’s vision, combined with the dedication of a supportive team, can rewrite the record books.
The story will undoubtedly be recounted in future seasons as a benchmark for aspiring trainers aiming to achieve a similar all‑track victory. Overall, the Perth meeting will be remembered not just for the individual race results but for the historic completion of a season‑long quest that saw Dan Skelton become the first trainer to win at every British jumps venue in a single term.
The achievement, coupled with memorable performances from horses like Heltenham, Apple Away, and No Drama This End, ensured that the day was one of the most remarkable in recent National Hunt history.