Nicky Henderson pulls world’s most expensive jumps horse from Cheltenham after making entry
NICKY HENDERSON looks set to finally unleash the world’s most expensive jumps horse – but not at Cheltenham after pulling his entry.
Palladium was one of those entered in a Grade 2 Triumph Hurdle Trial at the track’s Trials Day on Saturday.
Nicky Henderson already has the Triumph Hurdle fav in Lulamba – but will world-record purchase Palladium topple him at the top after his debut?[/caption]The Sevens Barrows boss has the current favourite for the Triumph itself in the shape of Lulamba.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
- Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
- Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
- Exclusive access to Templegate’s daily NAP
- Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
- Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
- VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk
He won comfortably at Ascot on Saturday, giving 10lbs and a decent beating to Gary Moore’s £500,000 former Flat star Mondo Man.
Palladium comes stacked with Flat experience himself having been bought by billionaire Lady Bamford following his German Derby win last summer.
And it looked like the four-year-old colt could have made his debut on the biggest stage of all.
But, after initially being entered, Hendo opted against the big Saturday run, seemingly favouring two lower-key engagements.
It’s no massive surprise given Henderson is often reluctant to run his horses first time out over the testing Cheltenham track.
Instead, Palladium has the option of a 2m maiden hurdle at Huntingdon on Thursday.
And there is a novices’ hurdle over 2m½f at Doncaster on Friday.
His entry at the home of jumps did spark activity in the betting markets.
While still available at 20-1, Ladbrokes and Coral cut Palladium from that price to 12s as word of his entry spread.
Had he stand his ground at Cheltenham, though, it looked like he would have been doing so against some other potential superstars.
Paul Nicholls has entered the exciting Sauvignon, who won two of his three contests, including one at Listed level, in France.
While James Owen’s East India Dock – who won a Grade 2 by 18 lengths at Cheltenham when last seen – has also thrown his hat into the ring.
While a dangerously unexposed JP McManus French recruit, Stencil, has been entered by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.