Could Hewick Emerge as a Fascinating Dark Horse for the Stayers Hurdle?

Shark Hanlon’s 10 year old stable star Hewick is set to return exclusively to hurdles ahead of 2025/26, and is looking like a very potential candidate for the Stayers Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. Over his career he has shown to be a very credible stayer over three miles, making him one to watch in the future.

Hewick hasn't got off to a great start so far this season, notably coming fourth in his first big raceday of the year in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby. Trainer Shark Hanlon seemed to favour chasing this season for his star 10 year old after a solid campaign over fences last season, including an eight place finish in the Grand National. However, what seems to be a very unconvincing start for Hewick over fences looks like all roads lead to hurdling, the race in particular being the stayers hurdle.

Last season Hewick and Hanlon saw the majority of their success come over hurdles, notably with a win in the Jimmy Neville Memorial Hurdle at Thurles, however his chasing success isn’t something to disregard. Hewick has faced the best of the best in some of racing’s biggest races, but nothing could ever top the King George victory he and Gavin Sheehan earned in 2023, however a victory at the Cheltenham festival wouldn’t be too bad for Hanlon this season.

As a horse who has been very consistent over three miles, two and a half, and even put up a very good performance over four, it only makes sense that the three mile Stayers hurdle is the way to go, and with his experience over the trip, he could be a very sneaky competitor.

Currently following the news that Hewick will return to hurdles, he is sat at a price of 50/1 in the market for the Stayers, a true outsider for a horse who deserves a lot more credit for what he has done. Wherever Hanlon decides to take Hewick, and whatever route he will choose on his way to Cheltenham, one thing for sure is that the trip is no problem, and if he can get the jumping back to his best, he is far better than a 50/1 shot.