One of the longest races on the horse racing calendar, the Eider Handicap Chase has often attracted the leading staying chasers from the UK & Ireland. Often used as a trial for the Grand National in April, the Newcastle marathon – run over 4m 1f 56y – will see only the strongest survive and claim victory.
We preview Saturday’s renewal, which takes place at the north east track at 2.43pm on February 21. We look at the latest odds, racecard and trends before our in-house tipster Steve Chambers picks out his selection.
2026 Eider Handicap Chase Runners
Sara Bradstock’s dour stayer Mr Vango will attempt to add another staying crown to his glittering CV. A winner of the London National, Peter Marsh Chase and Midlands Grand National last season, the 10-year-old has the Grand National as his ultimate target, but is looking to land this prize first. He will have to give over a stone-and-a-half away to all his rivals here. However, has shown down the years he’s capable of carrying huge weights to victory over long distances.
A winner of this race in 2024, Anglers Crag will look to regain his crown for Nicky Richards. Victorious at Carlisle last time out, he’s 4lbs higher than his winning mark two years ago. Knockanore won this race last season, but has struggled for any form since. A Southern National winner for Livin On Luco has shown he can excel over these trips. The Philip Hobbs & Johnson White-trained runner is another with no stamina doubts.
A three-mile winner at Aintree on Boxing Day, Fortunate Man tackles four miles for the first time. Third at Sandown last time out, Jonjo & A J O’Neill’s runner is an intriguing contender here. Dom Of Mary won here over 3m 5f two starts ago for James Owen. Meanwile, the likes of former Welsh Grand National winner Val Dancer and Whistle Stop Tour add more depth.
2026 Eider Handicap Chase Racecard
14:43 Newcastle
Good To SoftVirgin Bet Daily Extra Places Eider Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
- First Prize: £41624
- 4m 1f 56y
- Class 2
- 10 runners
- Win time: 8m 54s
4/1J (Won)
- Win: £5.00
- Place: £1.70
18/1
- Place: £3.60
15/2
- Place: £2.80
15/2
4/1J
5/1
22/1
17/2
13/2
+o+e Betting Returns
| Payout | |
|---|---|
| Exacta | £77.30 |
| Straight Forecast | £68.83 |
| Tricast | £524.90 |
| Trifecta | £548.50 |
Selections
Daily Record:
Dom Of MaryThe Star:
Anglers CragEider Handicap Chase Trends
We take a look at all the key Eider Handicap Chase trends:
Eider Handicap Chase Tips
Plenty of these are quite exposed lining up here and Mr Vango is sure to make a real test of stamina. Whilst he’s sure to be on the vicinity in the closing stages he could just find it tough to carry such a big weight to victory. Fortunate Man is the one that could improve for the step up in trip, and the seven-year-old could well progress enough to land this prize. Mr Vango can be gallant in defeat in second, whilst Anglers Crag looks the best of the rest.
FAQs
When and where will the Eider Handicap Chase be run?
The Eider Handicap Chase will take place at Newcastle racecourse on Saturday 21 February, 2026 at 2.43pm.
How can I watch the Eider Handicap Chase on Saturday?
The Eider Handicap chase will be shown live on ITV Racing at 2.43pm.
Who is Steve Chambers?
Steve Chambers is the editor for GG.co.uk and is a senior racing analyst, specialising in race previews, betting insight and feature coverage.
When were the Eider Handicap Chase tips published?
The tips for the Eider Handicap Chase were published at 9.30am on Friday 20 February.
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