Harry Cobden is the latest connection to weigh in on No Drama This End‘s chance at the Cheltenham Festival. Once again, he is exuding confidence in the grey, who has been compared to Denman.
Mighty Park’s defection from the Turners Novices’ Hurdle yesterday has ensured the Challow Hurdle winner has returned as favourite. He initially claimed that position after his Newbury success and is unbeaten over hurdles so far in three starts.
That Grade 1 victory was previously a poisoned chalice for Cheltenham. The New Lion finally ended the hoodoo last season, going on to win the Turners after an impressive success in the 2024 Challow.
No Drama This End did not win the Challow in quite the same fashion. However, he has been dominant so far and Cobden is not the first of his connections to report positively on his chances for next week.
“I think he’ll take a lot of beating” – Cobden
Cobden has ridden six Cheltenham Festival winners in his career, his first back in 2018 aboard Kilbricken Storm. That was in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle, with five of his six winners coming in novice contests.
The Turners is not one of those victories, as he has missed out aboard fancied chances Bravemansgame and Stage Star. However, this time could be different, with a couple of potential rivals both skipping the race.
The way Cobden speaks about his mount, though, you sense he would not be afraid of any opposition.
“At this stage looking at the week, he’d be the most exciting one I’m riding for Paul,” Cobden said to the Racing Post. “I’m very much looking forward to it as he’s got the best form in the book, certainly from this side of the water. I wouldn’t swap him for any horse in the race.
“I’ve loved the way he’s gone through his races, his jumping has been very good and he’s got a brilliant mind, so I’ve got a lot of faith in him. I think he’ll take a lot of beating.”
Temperament can go a long way at Cheltenham. As well as possessing plenty of on-course ability, Cobden believes his pre-race attitude will go a long way to producing his best when the race begins.
“He’s got a good profile and his form has worked out well.” said Cobden. “He’s very straightforward. He might get a bit hot in the paddock now and again, but as soon as you get on his back he’s very relaxed and easy-going.”
The Turners Novices’ Hurdle will kick off day two of Cheltenham on Wednesday 11 March.