Val Dancer, the rising star of Mel Rowley’s yard, is being prepared for the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Haydock following his emphatic victory in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.
The eight-year-old showcased his stamina and determination to claim the Christmas feature race, emerging from foggy conditions to defeat Jubilee Express and previous winner Iwilldoit.
Rowley, thrilled with her charge’s performance, confirmed the horse is in excellent shape and that Haydock’s prestigious trial on February 15 is the likely next stop for him.
Time to recover
“He has come out of the race extremely well, I’m delighted to say,” she explained. “We’re giving him some time to recover, but the Grand National Trial at Haydock seems the obvious target.
“It’s over a similar distance, but the track offers different challenges, especially if the weather makes it heavy going. He does seem to enjoy soft ground, so we’ll see how he progresses.”
The win at Chepstow marked a career highlight for Rowley, who trains from her family’s Poplar Cottage Farm stables in Shropshire.
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Biggest success
Reflecting on the victory, she said: “It was by far our biggest success, and we’ve probably worn out the replay already, though there wasn’t much to see with the fog!
“The congratulations from everyone have been so kind. For the team, moments like these make all the hard work worthwhile.”
Val Dancer’s festive success wasn’t just celebrated at Chepstow. A few days later, he was paraded at a local point-to-point, much to the delight of attendees and riders alike.
“He was full of himself, basking in his own self-importance,” Rowley quipped. “He’s recovered brilliantly, sound as a pound, and eating well, which is fantastic.”
Transformation
Rowley also reflected on the horse’s transformation since joining her yard.
“When he came to us, he was shy and unsure of his own ability, really just a shell of a horse. He’s matured so much this year and is now brimming with confidence. He’s even got a bit fresh and spicy at home!”
Looking ahead to Haydock, Rowley knows the challenges the track can pose but remains optimistic about Val Dancer’s potential.
“Saturday high-profile horses like him don’t come along often, and we feel so lucky to have him. We’ll let him dictate what’s next, but we’re excited about the journey ahead.”
