JUBILEE EXPRESS AND MR VANGO FEATURE AMONG 22 ENTRIES FOR CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL
Monday 22nd December 2025 – Ante-post favourite Jubilee Express was among 22 entries at the five-day stage for the Coral Welsh Grand National on Monday morning. The 8-year-old was runner-up in this contest last year and is aiming to go one better for local trainer Sam Thomas.
Speaking ahead of the race, Thomas said: “He (Jubilee Express) is one of those big, burly horses and takes so much work. There’s definitely more to come, especially as he’s now a bit more battle-hardened and has been in some bigger races; he knows what to expect. I think that goes a long way when you’re going into these big races, they are well prepared and know what’s about to happen.”
Smart staying chaser Mr Vango warmed up for this race with a fine effort in the Becher Chase when denied by just a short head in defeat to Twig. He went from strength to strength in landing a hat-trick of high-profile handicap chases last season and remains on an upward curve.
Git Maker won his first ever race under rules at this track and finished third in the Scottish National last year. He was third on his comeback run which was over hurdles. Trainer Jamie Snowden is searching for a first win in this iconic staying chase worth almost £100,000 to the winner.
The consistent O’Connell posted a career-best in winning the London National last time out and a 5lb rise seems lenient given the ease with which he won that race.
The class angle in this race potentially lies in the shape of Haiti Couleurs who was pulled up in the Betfair Chase last time but looked extremely progressive prior to that in winning both the Irish National and at the Cheltenham Festival.
The Tizzard family have won the Coral Welsh Grand National twice in recent years courtesy of Native River (2016) and Elegant Escape (2018). Connections of the latter could be represented once again in the form of Rock My Way who won easily at Ascot in the Berkshire National last month.
Earlier on the card, eight entries have been received for the Coral Finale Juvenile Hurdle at 1:40pm. Macktoad sets the standard after he made a big impression on his British debut when bolting up at Sandown for the Gary & Josh Moore yard. Nicky Henderson’s French import Manlaga holds an intriguing profile and could make his debut on these shores in this contest.
About Chepstow Racecourse
Chepstow Racecourse opened its gates in 1926 and has since blossomed into a bustling track that is home to the Welsh Grand National. From just a pretty park, this venue is now home to racing fixtures and
music events throughout the year, as well as being available to hire for conferences and events. Chepstow Racecourse will be celebrating its 100th year next year. There will be lots of fun events planned to mark the occasion so keep your eyes peeled for further information.
For further information please contact:
Sam Cone, Arena Racing Company on 07920 404296 or SCone@arenaracingcompany.co.uk
Hugo Barran, JSC Communications on 07786 913215 or hugo@jsccomms.co.uk
