June ‘26 Yankee courtesy @knockando

[BuckingThe Trend]

Dan's Blog 24 April 2026 ​

4.02 - Kabral Du Mathan​

Then we have Kabral Du Mathan in the Select Hurdle. Again, this is another horse who has had a brilliant year - he looked like winning the Stayers' Hurdle at every point, basically, until he jumped the last at Cheltenham, and he just didn't quite get up the hill over three miles. This is a reduction in trip though, and I think it really suits him. He's got to carry a Class 1 penalty, but that's because he's won those races, so I'm not afraid of that. I think we'll go chasing next year, so this will probably be his last run over hurdles, and I think it's a suitable one to do just that in. The way he travels and jumps... this nicer ground should definitely be up his street.

 

[Lobos]

Dan's Blog 24 April 2026 ​

4.02 - Kabral Du Mathan​

Then we have Kabral Du Mathan in the Select Hurdle. Again, this is another horse who has had a brilliant year - he looked like winning the Stayers' Hurdle at every point, basically, until he jumped the last at Cheltenham, and he just didn't quite get up the hill over three miles. This is a reduction in trip though, and I think it really suits him. He's got to carry a Class 1 penalty, but that's because he's won those races, so I'm not afraid of that. I think we'll go chasing next year, so this will probably be his last run over hurdles, and I think it's a suitable one to do just that in. The way he travels and jumps... this nicer ground should definitely be up his street.

He also confirmed more recently (3 weeks ago?) in an Instagram message that the Arkle was the plan. Same Instagram that he said Soldier Reeves would be going down the Stayers route. I wish I knew how to put it up on here !