The upcoming broadcast on Sky Sports Racing this Tuesday will showcase an exciting day of jump racing at Bangor-on-Dee, with a particular focus on the John Hewitt Memorial Novices' Limited Handicap Chase. The headline attraction is the seven‑year‑old Grade Two winner Roadlesstravelled, who will be making his much‑anticipated debut over fences in this event. Roadlesstravelled entered the sport with a flawless record, winning all three of his starts over hurdles, including a prestigious Grade Two novice hurdle.
After that brilliant start, his form has been inconsistent. He was pulled up in the Formby Novices' Hurdle in December 2024 and subsequently spent a spell competing on the flat, where a recent run saw him go too keen and finish unplaced.
The horse now returns to the jumps after nearly four months away from the obstacles, aiming to rediscover the ability that made him a top‑class novice. His connections, trainer Jonjo O'Neill and jockey AJ O'Neill, have been working hard to get him back into peak condition, and a win in an Irish point‑to‑point in May 2023 suggests that the talent is still there. If the pair have managed to restore his fitness, Roadlesstravelled could be a serious contender in his first chase. Among the rivals, Captain Cool stands out as the most experienced chaser in the field.
With a BHA rating of 131, the seasoned veteran has a proven record over fences and will be looking to impose his class on the younger horses. His extensive experience should give him a tactical edge, especially in a race that is likely to test stamina and jumping ability.
Krak is another horse to watch. Although he was beaten by ten lengths in his last outing, he appeared to lack the staying power required for that distance. Dropping back in trip could suit him better, and if he can find a rhythm, he may be able to close the gap on the front‑runners. Ice In The Veins finished a distant 25 lengths behind Captain Cool in a June meeting, indicating a significant improvement is needed to compete at this level.
However, a lighter weight assignment and a more economical racing style could see the gap narrow, making him a potential factor in the final stages. The card also features a Listed Criterium de Lyon, pitting San Giorgio against Master Man.
San Giorgio, trained by Francis‑Henri Graffard, is showing steady progress with each run. He broke his maiden in a respectable novice race, finishing close behind the current French champion two‑year‑old Avec Toi.
His second start, where he ran well behind a high‑class juvenile in Ciceron, hinted at further improvement. His stablemate Be My Friend, who was only a place behind San Giorgio on debut, has already claimed a victory at Vichy and could become a serious threat as he gains more experience.
Master Man, on the other hand, has been consistently solid, winning two of his three starts to date. His performances suggest he could set the benchmark for the race, especially if he continues his upward trajectory. Skyridge and Palais Byzantin, who finished a close second‑third in July, are also likely to be competitive.
While they may not possess the same room for improvement as the younger horses, their recent form indicates they will be eager to contest the prize. In addition to the chase, the programme includes the Paul Ferguson's Jumper To Follow Novices' Hurdle, where the promising filly Hidden Fortune is expected to headline. Trained by Dan Skelton, the five‑year‑old has already shown a high level of ability, winning her first hurdle race after two encouraging bumper placings. Her debut victory was impressive, and her connections believe she will thrive over longer distances and on softer ground, which could suit her natural stamina.
A key challenger to Hidden Fortune will be Provision, who broke his maiden with a dominant ten‑length win in his last start. Although Provision lacks the class of Hidden Fortune, his recent form suggests he has the experience to pose a genuine threat.
Ride Like A Girl, who disappointed in her most recent outing, shares a similar profile with Provision and could rebound strongly if she can rediscover her best form. Also making his hurdle debut is Secret Beach, a flat performer rated 78. While his experience over obstacles is limited, his solid flat credentials indicate he may adapt quickly to the new discipline, especially if given a patient ride.
The broadcast will also feature coverage from Auteuil, where a nine‑race card includes a Listed contest, and from Lyon‑Parilly, which will host a series of informative maiden races. The day’s schedule culminates with the 4.38 pm meeting at Bangor‑on‑Dee, where Jiair Madrik is slated to feature in a tightly contested affair. Sky Sports Racing will provide live commentary, expert analysis, and in‑depth interviews throughout the day, ensuring viewers receive the latest racing news, insights, and features directly on their devices.
Whether you are a seasoned punter or a casual fan, the programme offers a comprehensive look at the day’s highlights, from the seasoned veterans to the emerging talents making their mark on the British jump racing scene.