Henderson tempted to unleash Sprinter Sacre - (2025)

Updated: 24/05/2025

Nicky Henderson has been discussing his future plans for Spinter Sacre, saying that he is tempted to enter him at Doncaster on Saturday.

The highly rated horse – who has been tipped for a massive future by many horse racing betting pundits – is the overwhelming favourite for the Arkle at Cheltenham in March and Henderson must now decide the ideal preparation.

The trainer said: “Either Sprinter Sacre or Kid Cassidy will run, but not both. Sprinter Sacre worked this morning and he's very fit and very well. He'll either run at Doncaster, but we're also toying with the Game Spirit on 11th February.”

“I might be at Doncaster as I could have a few there. Shakalakaboomboom will run in the Sky Bet Chase, and Osric could go there or Cheltenham. I probably need to get Shakalakaboomboom up 2lb to make sure he gets in the Grand National. I'll also run Broadbackbob and First In The Queue at Cheltenham.”

There is certainly no doubt that it is a busy time for Henderson as he prepares for the extremely important Cheltenham Festival in March and then the Aintree Grand National in April. Sprinter Sacre will be one of his many entries to watch in the coming months!

Elsewhere, Paul Struther – who is the former British Horseracing Authority head of communications – has been named as the new chief executive of the Professional Jockeys Association.

Speaking about capturing the role, he said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as the new chief executive of the Professional Jockeys Association and it will be a privilege to be able to work on behalf of such a dedicated and professional group of sportsmen and women.”

“Racing is facing a number of challenges and the PJA will continue to play a leading role in helping address them, for the benefit of both its members and for the sport as a whole.”

Finally in this horse racing news round-up, Peter Casey’s Flemenstar is all set to run in this Sunday’s Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase.

Speaking about the week ahead for Flemenstar, trainer Casey said: “He seems to be in great form and the plan is to run, but I would be a bit concerned about the ground as he needs a good dig in it.”

“I see there is rain forecast for Wednesday, so we'd be hoping they get a good drop up there. He was good the last day at Naas and he has come out of that race in great form.”

The race comes a ‘week too soon’ for Bog Warrior though. Regardless, it should be a competitive race, forming part of another action packed weekend in preparation for Cheltenham Festival Betting in March.

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