THE Cheltenham Festival may be dominated by the Irish, but one Vale trainer has flown the flag for Wales this week.
Four thoroughbreds trained by Ogmore-based Evan Williams – John Constable, Report to Base, Prime Venture, and King’s Odyssey – have featured on the Prestbury Park racecard.
King’s Odyssey came third out of a 22-horse field in yesterday afternoon’s Stable Plate Handicap, bagging more than £11,000 in prize money.
Other races proved more disappointing.
Report to Base fell during the Novices’ Handicap Chase on Wednesday, while Tuesday’s Champion Hurdle Trophy saw John Constable struggle with a course that was heavy underfoot.
Mr Williams does not, however, believe Cheltenham is make-or-break for a trainer’s season.
“It’s the pinnacle of the sport, but I have to say there’s far too much hype,” he said.