Five big Welsh hopes for the National Hunt season

The 2026 National Hunt season has begun with optimism from Welsh racing enthusiasts, as several top talents are set to feature prominently. Over the past season, Chepstow's Rebecca Curtis showcased her ability to train high-quality horses, with her nine-year-old chaser Haiti Couleurs receiving a top rating of 163 after a victorious Welsh Grand National campaign. However, the dry summer had a significant impact on ground conditions, requiring Curtis to exercise patience before racing her star horse.

As the season continues, Sean Bowen, the current Champion Jockey, is determined to secure his third consecutive title. He is facing stiff competition from his rival, Harry Skelton, who has a significant advantage in the championship race. Bowen, who is also a National Hunt jockey of the year six times, is confident in his abilities to regain the top spot.

Other promising horses to watch include Bande Organisee, a five-year-old with impressive credentials, trained by Rebecca Curtis. The horse has already demonstrated its jumper ability, earning praise from Curtis for his strong gallops and potential as a three-mile chaser. Sam Thomas also has a noteworthy prospect in his stable, Steel Ally, who has won three of his four races in the 2025-26 campaign and is highly regarded for his will to win.