Jack Richards Novices Chase Runners
Jack Richards Novices Chase Runners
The latest betting odds for the 2026 Jack Richards Novices’ Handicap Chase, as well as trainer, confirmed jockey, age and form for each of the runners.
You can also find all the latest Jack Richards Novices’ Handicap Chase free bets through oddschecker.
Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase 2026 Runners
Find the latest Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase odds and likely runners right here. Oddschecker updates this page in real-time, meaning you’ll always see the freshest Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase odds as they move.
The Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase is one of the most competitive novice handicap chases at the Cheltenham Festival. Open to second-season novice chasers, it provides a major Festival target for progressive staying types looking to make their mark in handicap company.
Formerly known as the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate, the race was renamed in honour of Jack Richards and has quickly become an established part of the Festival programme. It regularly attracts deep and competitive fields from leading British and Irish yards.
Run over approximately 2 miles and 4½ furlongs (about 2m4f), the race is staged on Cheltenham’s New Course and features 17 fences. The combination of tactical pace, accurate jumping and the demanding uphill finish makes it a thorough test for novice chasers.
The race is a Grade 2 Novices' Handicap Chase and takes place on Thursday 12th March 2026 during the Cheltenham Festival.
Notable Winners
- The Shunter – a versatile performer who landed Festival success in competitive handicap company.
- Coole Cody – a popular winner who showcased toughness and consistency around Cheltenham.
- Simply The Betts – a progressive chaser who thrived in big-field Festival handicaps.
- Imperial Commander – an early winner of the race who later went on to Gold Cup glory.
Key Race Details
- Race Type: Novices' Handicap Chase
- Grade: Grade 2
- Distance: Approximately 2 miles 4½ furlongs
- Number of Fences: 17
- Location: Cheltenham Racecourse (New Course)
- Date: Thursday 12th March 2026 (Cheltenham Festival)
- Prize Money: Typically over £100,000 in total prize fund (varies year-on-year)
The Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase is often a stepping stone for improving chasers who go on to compete in graded company the following season. With a competitive handicap structure and Festival atmosphere, it consistently produces dramatic finishes.
Cheltenham Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase FAQs
1. Who are the confirmed runners for the Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase?
Entries are usually confirmed several weeks before the Cheltenham Festival, with final declarations made closer to raceday. This page will update with confirmed runners, trainers and jockey bookings once announced.
2. When are runners officially confirmed?
Final declarations are made 48 hours before the race. For the 2026 renewal, final declarations will be confirmed at 10:00am on Tuesday 10th March 2026.
3. How many horses usually run in this race?
The race typically attracts between 16 and 24 runners, making it one of the more competitive handicap chases of Festival week.
4. What type of horse tends to perform well?
Progressive novice chasers with solid jumping form and proven ability around two and a half miles tend to perform strongly, especially those with previous experience in competitive handicaps.
5. Which trainers target this race?
Leading British and Irish trainers regularly aim well-handicapped novices at this contest, particularly those who may not take in the open Grade 1 novice chases during the week.
Who is the favourite to win the 2026 Cheltenham Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase?
| Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase Odds | Best Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Meetmebythesea | 11/2 | Ladbrokes |
| Regents Stroll | 6/1 | Ladbrokes |
| Jordans Cross | 8/1 | bet365 |
| Sixmilebridge | 9/1 | Ladbrokes |
