The Grade 3 Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse will be broadcast live on ITV Racing this Saturday.
The contest joins eight others from four different tracks on a packed terrestrial schedule. Although most pre-race excitement centres around Cheltenham at this time of the year, the screening of the Bobbyjo Chase heralds the build-up to the Grand National too.
That is because the previous two winners of the Bobbyjo Chase have gone on to Grand National glory. I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett both scored in the respective races for Willie Mullins. The Closutton trainer has four entries in this year’s race at Fairyhouse.
Though attention will then turn almost exclusively to Cheltenham, the stepping stones to Aintree are also being mapped out.
ITV4 broadcast good for “consciousness of our viewers” says Chamberlin
The Grand National is a favourite for once-a-year punters. As such, generating a visual pathway to the race should build the anticipation.
That is certainly the belief of ITV anchor Ed Chamberlin, who spoke to the Racing Post about the Bobbyjo’s impending broadcast.
“It’s great to be able to show the best of racing on ITV, and that’s down to the Irish authorities and to Richard Willoughby, who wants to involve these horses as part of the narrative around Cheltenham and Aintree.
“We want these horses to be in the consciousness of our viewers and racing fans before the big races. This has been the race for Aintree in the last few seasons. That in and of itself is as good a reason as any to show it right there.”
Summing up his delight, Chamberlin added: “This will help the public become all the more familiar with these horses before the Grand National. That can only help build excitement for the race itself.”
The decision for the race to join the ITV broadcast has also been met with positivity by Fairyhouse racecourse. Their general manager John Sheridan also spoke to the Racing Post.
“We’re delighted ITV4 are going to show the Bobbyjo Chase this Saturday. It’s a massive boost for the profile of the race and for Fairyhouse as we build up to our flagship festival on Easter weekend.
“The timing of the race is ideal and the record speaks for itself with the last two Aintree National winners coming directly from the race.”
The field for this year’s renewal includes 2025 Grand National third Grangeclare West. He will be the critical mount of Paul Townend.