The anticipation surrounding Sir Gino’s penultimate run in preparation for Cheltenham hangs in the air. The exciting chaser was to contest the William Hill Best Odds Guaranteed Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, a keenly fought testing in preparation for his challenge in the Arkle Trophy. Fans and observers waited with baited breath to see him face older, wiser opponents and, in doing so, establish himself as one of the most exciting jumpers in training.

Nicky Henderson, a six-time champion trainer, is no stranger to having to make unpopular choices about the welfare of horses in his care. With a career full of achievement at the largest events, Henderson has earned the trust of the horse-racing community. Henderson’s most recent move in taking out Sir Gino at the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury over a minor issue added to his record for putting the welfare of horses first. Fans have backed him, aware that short-term disappointments can pay dividends in the long term, with the Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham in mind.

Henderson’s dilemma as Sir Gino misses Newbury

Sir Gino’s withdrawal from the Chase at Cheltenham was precautionary, with Henderson reporting that the horse sustained a “small wound to the inside of his near hind leg.” Not a problem, but one that kept him out for the weekend, at least. Henderson was irritated at the timing, reporting that the gelding would have healed in a week’s time.

“This will leave us with a dilemma where to go in order to get another run before the Arkle,” Henderson agreed, weighing restricted options. February 26’s new two-mile novice at Bangor was a consideration, but a tad too close to the Cheltenham Festival for comfort. There was a fall-back in the Pendil at Kempton, but two and a half added to its distance, and it was not ideal.

Despite the disappointment, the odds-on favorite for the Arkle Trophy, Sir Gino, is not out of it, bookies cutting him in a little from 4-6 to 8-11, with arch-rival Majborough down to 7-4. Coral’s David Stevens assured betters that the youngster’s supremacy was not at any risk, stating, “All racing followers will hope that Sir Gino’s failure to arrive at Newbury is a transient disappointment, for he is one of the most exciting jumpers in training at present.”

Fans convince Sir Gino’s Arkle bid untouched

One of the first fan reactions summed up the general opinion of Sir Gino’s followers: “He wins the Arkle with or without another run, so don’t stress too much.” With a perfect record and an imposing presence in his runs, many don’t believe in a warm-up run at all. His success over Ballyburn in the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase at Kempton over Christmas showed him in a new light, and little doubt about him afterward existed.

Another fan showed confidence in Henderson’s move: “Full faith in Seven Barrows to do what’s best for Sir Gino.” Henderson’s skill and meticulous planning have taken a succession of horses to Cheltenham glory, and punters believe that he will have Sir Gino in shape for the big one. Missing out at Newbury will be a disappointment, but getting the horse in tip-top shape is most important.

However, for a small group, the news was mixed with disappointment. “Hey. I was so looking forward to seeing him tomorrow.” one fan apologized, then continued, “his well fare is paramount. I hope all is well with him soon 🙏 and thank you for the update. 🙂” The Game Spirit Chase could have been a beneficial learning curve in competition with seasoned chasers, but nothing will have changed in the long term.

Perhaps the most cheeky reaction came from a fan determined to see Sir Gino in action, taunting with an alternative: “I’m prepared to give him a race on my bicycle if that helps if you can get yourself to Chippenham in Wiltshire lol. I’m disappointed but get well soon Sir Gino you are the number one priority. As for The Arkle he’ll still win!” Despite the disappointment at not having a run at penultimate preparation, Sir Gino’s claim for Arkle is as strong as ever.

Henderson’s dilemma is whether to search for an alternative between Cheltenham or go directly to the festival. Whatever, punters are not fazed, backing their hero to produce at the biggest stage of them all. In fact, confidence, if anything, is heightened—because, in punters’ minds, Sir Gino was for Arkle glory all along.