Top prospect Hillcrest set to finally resume career in graduation chase at Haydock

Hillcrest, rated one of the most exciting jumpers in Britain prior to his defeat in the 2022 Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, returns from a 981-day layoff at Haydock on Saturday.

The giant nine-year-old, who has always looked a potential star chaser, makes his debut over fences in the £50,000 Betfair Exchange Graduation Chase (1.50) under Sam Twiston-Davies after recovering from a leg injury.

Hillcrest’s trainer Henry Daly is hoping for a trouble-free round and a sound horse on Sunday morning.

“He seems in good form and I’m very happy with him,” said Daly. “I would like a nice clean round and, on Sunday morning when I go to feel his legs I hope they are nice and cold.”

Hillcrest has never been an exuberant work horse, so Daly cannot be sure he retains all his ability after such a mammoth absence from the racecourse.

“He’s never been a flashy work horse, and he’s certainly not going to start being one now,” he said. “We’ll know more after Haydock.”

Hillcrest faces five rivals, including likely favourite Iroko, runner-up in an Aintree Grade 1 novice chase in the spring.

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