See also » Hewick makes winning seasonal reappearance
Paddy said he took a good blow at the top of the hill but I knew he would, as he is only back in training seven weeks. He got one blow in the Curragh and my own new gallop at home is very good, but he said he'll improve a lot from it. He is a dream horse and he loves it. . I'd like to see Paddy staying on him for the year but T J (McDonald) might have different ideas. We'll see but I think the two of them have a bond and when a horse has a bond with a jockey, I'd love to keep it together. That's up to T J though. He has the Betvictor Champion Chase in Down Royal or the Charlie Hall in Wetherby next but it depends on the ground. Today's race will put him spot on and we're going wherever there is goodish ground. I know he is a 10 year old but I feel he is better and stronger this year and he has put a backside to himself now. he was beaten only 18 lengths in the Grand National and while I wondered whether he stayed the distance, hitting the third-last knowing the stuffing out of him. . Every race is an aim but why not try the Grand National again. He is a great people's horse and I met so many who were here to see Hewick today. John Joseph Hanlon, trainer

A hurdle for five years old and upwards that have not won more than two hurdle races (excluding Academy Hurdles and 3-y-o Junior N.H. Hurdles) since 5th May, 2024
Weights - 11st. Mares allowed 7lbs.
Penalties - Penalties (handicaps, Academy Hurdles and 3-y-o Junior N.H. Hurdles excluded) - to count from 5th May, 2024 Winner of a hurdle race 6lb extra Of two hurdle races or one value #12,500 10lb extra