Navan Race Preview: Apple’s Jade Mares Novice Hurdle – Key Contenders and Form Analysis
The Ryan’s Cleaning Apple’s Jade Mares Novice Hurdle at Navan on February 8th, 2026, promises a competitive field of seven runners. Recent form suggests a compelling clash, with several horses demonstrating strong performances in their previous outings. This race, a Listed hurdle over 2m 4f with a prize fund of €23,500, is attracting significant attention from racing enthusiasts.
Zanoosh and Ill Raise A Glass: Leading the Charge
Zanoosh (IRE) enters the race as a strong contender, having secured a victory at Navan over the same distance in January. The six-year-traditional demonstrated staying power and a willingness to compete, winning a handicap race on soft-heavy ground. Ill Raise A Glass (IRE) as well boasts impressive recent form, having won a maiden hurdle at Punchestown in January, beating Poetisa by five lengths. This victory highlights her ability to handle challenging conditions.
Apples Jane: Building on Ayr Success
Apples Jane (IRE), trained by G. Elliott and ridden by J.W. Kennedy, is another horse to watch. She secured a win in a maiden hurdle at Ayr in January, displaying a clear advantage over her competitors. The five-year-old’s performance suggests she is capable of stepping up to this level of competition.
Poetisa and Mi Lucky Cailin: Consistent Performers
Poetisa (IRE) finished second to Ill Raise A Glass at Punchestown, indicating a solid level of performance. While she couldn’t secure the win, her consistency makes her a notable runner. Mi Lucky Cailin (IRE) has also shown strong form, winning a handicap hurdle at Thurles in January. Her ability to lead and maintain a strong pace throughout the race positions her as a potential threat.
Soldierstown and Sopelana: Dark Horses
Soldierstown (IRE) secured a win at Fairyhouse in January, demonstrating an ability to navigate challenging courses and maintain a strong finish. Sopelana also has a recent win at Punchestown, showcasing her capabilities in heavy ground conditions. These two horses could offer value for those seeking an outside bet.
Catchabird and Changeyourstars: Facing an Uphill Battle
Catchabird (IRE)’s recent performance at Punchestown suggests she may face an uphill battle. Finishing third in a handicap hurdle, she trailed behind the leaders by a significant margin. Changeyourstars (IRE) secured a win at Limerick in December, but will need to find extra to compete with the leading contenders based on previous form.
Race Details and Conditions
The race is a hurdle for four-year-old and upwards mares, with weights assigned as 10st for four-year-olds and 10st 9lbs for older horses. The going is heavy, and the track surface is turf. The winner will receive €14,100, with substantial prizes also awarded for second through sixth place.
FAQ
Q: What is the distance of the race?
A: 2m 4f.
Q: What is the going like at Navan?
A: Heavy.
Q: Which horse won at Navan over this distance recently?
A: Zanoosh.
Q: What type of race is this?
A: A Listed Mares Novice Hurdle.
Did you realize? Zanoosh’s recent win at Navan over the same distance makes her a particularly strong contender in this race.
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to horses with proven form on heavy ground, as the conditions at Navan are likely to favor those with experience in similar terrain.
Stay tuned for live updates and results from the Ryan’s Cleaning Apple’s Jade Mares Novice Hurdle at Navan. For more in-depth racing coverage, explore our race previews and expert analysis sections.
