In a competitive Grade 1 Mildmay Novices’ Chase on the second day of the Grand National Festival, Wendigo, who was kicked before the start, was not seen to best effect, finding things happening a little quickly.
Wendigo, sent off at 7/1, settled well just worse than midfield and found a good rhythm over his fences under Jonathon Burke. Passing the stands ahead of the final circuit, he travelled well in a handy position behind the leaders, but as the pace lifted he was unable to go with them, despite continuing to jump soundly. He was unfortunate to be hampered four out and gradually weakened to finish sixth on ground that appeared too quick for him, which does not diminish what has been an excellent first season over fences.
After the race, jockey Jonathon Burke gave us his verdict on the performance:
“It was all happening a bit quick for him, but he jumped really well. His jumping got better as the race went on but we were always on the edge of being flat out and we were hanging on in there as much as we could. They just kept quickening away from him so I popped him home and he’s back safe and sound. It is only good ground and he’ll appreciate a softer surface.”
Trainer Jamie Snowden reported the following morning:
“Wendigo is fine after the race. They went some gallop and he’s just got tired on good ground. It all just happened a bit quick for him and he wants softer ground. He just ran a bit flat at the end of a long season. The Hennessy (Coral Gold Cup) and Grand National look two targets for next season.”
This season has been a brilliant start to life over fences for the star that is Wendigo. Prior to Aintree, he won in Grade 2 company at Newbury, placed in a Grade 1 at Kempton, and scored by twenty-two lengths at Ayr, as well as suffering an unfortunate stumble on landing when running well at Cheltenham. He now has some major targets next season, including the most famous race of them all, the Grand National.
Shares are still available in Wendigo! Click HERE to get involved in a Grade 1 horse for just £120!
