While Dan Skelton may well hail from 15 minutes down the road in Alcester, there can be no denying that he is one of the finest sporting exports that Redditch and the surrounding areas have ever produced.
Partnered up with his younger brother Harry in the saddle, Skelton is one of the finest horse racing trainers in the game today. And at the recent Cheltenham Festival, he added further aura to his already blossoming reputation.
What Happened At Cheltenham?
The 2025 Cheltenham Festival was a shocker for a few reasons. Dwindling attendances and sky-rocketing food and drink prices may have captured the headlines for the wrong reasons, but the thrilling action was second to none. A record number of odds on favourites were beaten in genuine gobsmackers, with the likes of Constitution Hill, Ballyburn, and Jonbon all getting beat.
But the biggest shocker of all came in the Gold Cup. Galopin des Champs stood on the brink of history as he looked to complete a hat trick of triumphs, securing his place in the record books alongside the likes of Best Mate who accomplished the three-peat two decades prior. He too though was on the receiving end of an upset, as
Inothewayurthinkin charged away in the final few furlongs to secure a shock win.
That triumph triggered online horse racing odds makers to position the seven-year-old as a 5/2 favourite to win the upcoming Grand National, but another stunner would lie in wait. Days ago, trainer Gavin Cromwell announced that his prized asset would not be running at Aintree, much to the dismay of punters who were banking on him going for gold once more. Now, if you’re looking to place a Grand National bet, you’ll notice that it is the likes of Intense Raffles (6/1), and Iroko (7/1) who are at the top of the betting charts.
But what of local hero Skelton? Well, he had plenty to shout about at Cheltenham, and here’s the rundown of his finest performers.
🦁 The LION roars at Cheltenham
The New Lion – class in the Turners pic.twitter.com/iXdAehOZUN
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 12, 2025
The New Lion Roars in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle
The New Lion delivered an unforgettable victory for Skelton in the Grade 1 Turners Novices’ Hurdle, maintaining his perfect record and handing owner J.P. McManus his 80th Festival win. Under the skilful guidance of Harry Skelton, the six-year-old gelding closed Ladies’ Day with flair, overcoming a strong field that included The Yellow Clay and Final Demand. Displaying a calm and composed running style, The New Lion pulled away late, claiming a three-quarter-length victory.
Reflecting on the win, Dan Skelton couldn’t hide his admiration for the horse. “He’s brilliant, very, very special. His simplicity is his greatest asset. I haven’t had one who can do things quite like this,” Skelton said. Harry Skelton echoed the sentiment, praising the horse’s ability to dig in and deliver under pressure. The New Lion’s potential path could even lead to the prestigious Champion Hurdle next year, though for now, the team is basking in the glory of his career-defining performance.
Unexpected Party Battles to Second in Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
Unexpected Party demonstrated Skelton’s expertise in handling experienced chasers, finishing a hard-fought second in the fiercely competitive Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase. The ten-year-old came into the race as a proven contender, having delivered consistent performances throughout the season. Against a large field of seasoned runners, he put up a tough fight and only narrowly missed out on the win to Jazzy Matty.
Catch Him Derry Shows Strength in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle
The third jewel in the Skelton crown came courtesy of Catch Him Derry, who powered home to claim third in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle. After a strong qualifying campaign, the seven-year-old gelding entered the race in good form and carried those expectations boldly on his back. Despite the gruelling conditions of the 3-mile race, he was placed admirably, beaten only by Doddiethegreat and Jeriko Du Reponet.
