Day 1 Review and Day 2 Preview Perth Festival 2026

Preview of Day 2

OLLY MURPHY bids for a third win in four years in the Join Racing TV Now Handicap Chase on the middle day of the Perth Festival.

The Warwickshire handler, who struck in the 2023 and 2024 with The Wolf and Chasing Fire, is represented by Sean Bowen-ridden American Mike in this year’s renewal.

Formerly trained by Gordon Elliott, the joint top-weight went close on his third run for his new stable when beaten just a length and three-quarters into second place at Wetherby four weeks ago.

His rivals include Mickey Bowen’s six-time Perth scorer Statuario and 2023 Highland National hero If Not For Dylan, now trained by Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore.

The most valuable race on another eight-race programme is the £25,000 River Tay Handicap Chase.

On his only appearance so far at the Scone track, Tommy’s Oscar was third twelve months ago off a 5lb lower mark in race that has been won by the favourite for the last four years. 

Harry Cobden has secured the job of No1 jockey to J P McManus from next season and he sports the famous green and gold hoop colours aboard one of the market principals in the shape of Slanagaibhgoleir.

 

Review of Day 1

No Drama This End got his career back on track on the opening day in £45,000 British EBF Gold Castle ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle.

The 8/11 favourite stayed on well to beat Tormund Giantsbane by three and a half lengths to supply jockey Harry Cobden with his 100th winner of the season.

Trainer Paul Nicholls confirmed the No Drama This End will now have his summer holiday before returning for a chasing campaign in the autumn.

Derek Fox-ridden Apple Away was a brilliant winner of the £40,000 Fair Maid Of Perth Mares’ Chase for Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore.

She is now likely to contest the French Champion Hurdle at Auteuil in around three weeks time.

And Dan Skelton, about to be crowned champion trainer for the first time, struck with Heltenham which means he has recorded a winner at every one of Britain’s jumps track this term.