Grand National Runners 2011: Niche Market
Posted on March 27th, 2011 in Grand National 2011
As we have been having updates from Graham Regan, the owner of Niche Market recently I have brought back last year’s thread about the horse in line with a request I saw on one of the main Grand National threads. I’ve also moved most of the pertinent posts to this thread so perhaps all the Niche Market info could go on this one page for easy reference.
I haven’t quite got to grips with the ‘moving posts’ tool so please bear with me whilst getting used to things.
Good luck to connections in 2010/11 and hopefully we will see Niche Market back at Aintree for the 2011 Grand National.
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This post has 200 comments
#1
April 19th, 2009 12:14
It’s early days but if Niche Market does go to Aintree I think he will be weighted out of it.
#2
April 19th, 2009 13:14
My take on Niche Market’s vital stats;
9 yr old, next April, +
OR 136, + (but handicapper penalised previous Irish Nat winner Hear The Echo 8lbs for National)
9 or more chases, +
won 1 of his last 10 chases, +
top 3 C1 chase, +
won at 29f, +
RPR 144 or more, +
left handed RPR 141 or more, –
17k C1,C2 win, +
40% 1st,2nd,3rd strike rate in chase, -
3 chase wins, -
winner profile,top 5 Hennessey etc, +
Has won in a big field, TS 128, but even at this stage 3 negatives unusual(based on previous winners)
#3
April 19th, 2009 13:30
It has been pointed out to me that horses with Presenting in their pedigree do not stay over 4 miles. One Cool Cookie is still the one that I’m taking forward to next year.
#4
April 19th, 2009 14:42
Last two Irish Grand National winners have had the expectation to do well at Liverpool.I think that Phil Smith knows this and will lump loads of weight. The second two might be too old,although not from a Stats point of view.The fourth could be the one to keep an eye on (Rare Bob).Although the national (liverpool is one year away app.)
#5
April 20th, 2009 16:59
crisp 73 love your work, so informative, lets keep it going by us all the way to the winning post in 2010 GN!
If 2009 is anything to go by the Handicapper will give Nich Market a big penalty for winning the IN and that may well blow his chances. Still I’am excluding nothing at this stage but still those 3 negaitves even at this satge makes you think.
#6
April 20th, 2009 21:36
i do fancy one cool cookies chances but he doesn’t fit the stats at the mo, he’d have to have a top 5 in the hennessy or a place in the welsh nat for me to seriously consider
#7
April 21st, 2009 07:59
I agree with others in that Phil Smith and his merry band of cowboys will hand Niche Market a huge weight next year. Also his best form is on right-handed tracks, and I would want to see him perform to a higher level left-handed than he has done thus far before I could consider backing him.
#8
April 22nd, 2009 15:16
Taking into account that Mon mome was the first french bred horse to win the national since 1908 and the 3rd,5th and 7th were also french bred,i think we can safely turf that statistic out of the window.
French breds had placed on a number of occasions in recent years,so it was only a matter of time before one won again.
Something punters might want to note,is the fact that Kauto Star is also french bred,and it appears a number of top owners are buying this type of horse now due to their abundance of stamina.
The only real way to assess possible National winners is to watch videos of prospective candidates on either A.T.R or the racing post site.
I say this because although not reported in detail on the racing post comments for the 2008 running,by all accounts Mon Mome was still travelling well when badly hampered in that race,something obviously a lot of us missed out on,and we all know how inportant course form can be.
So lesson learnt,we can go into next years race armed with a deal more knowledge than we had before.
The fact that Mon Mome was only the second horse to carry 11 stone or more in recent times,just goes to show us how well these french bred horses stay extreme distances.
In fact they stay and jump so well,i think we are coming to an era where all other breeds can almost be discounted for these big staying chases.
At this point,i think i’ll mention Master Minded,yes,french bred.
Its actually making life considerably easier for old Joe punter,because these horses seem to be on a different planet.
Enough said for now,i’ll post again in the coming months,and maybe we’ll have a 500/1 winner on the exchanges for next years race.
#9
May 3rd, 2009 15:31
i guess we need to find out more about the pedigree of these French horses; remember Vulgan was French and look at the influence he had for many years, and wasn’t Roselier French but stood in Ireland? Mon Mome [perhaps because he's quite a small horse] seems to run badly if suffering interference from another horse in a race; didn’t it happen in both last years National and this seasons Welsh? In the Midlands he just had a lot of weight and probably didn’t run as badly as it first looked. I tended to think that the Midlands National was just too close to the National, but he obviously wasn’t given a hard race.
#10
November 11th, 2009 12:40
Niche Market first run of season. Needs to improve on that. Looking at his Dosage he looks perfect for national unlike the last two irish national winners. Got a gut feeling with this one, but I’ve also got a feeling the Henessy which hasn’t produced the winner in ages will prove the key race this year.
#11
November 28th, 2009 16:37
He quickly become my number one choice for next year national.#
He can handle large fields, an experience, his OR is 145 (forced to race off 148 in the Hennessy because of Denman), even his dosage fits the stats. He also has two major Grand National tials under his belt and in mine opinion come out with flying colours.
What they want to do now is run him over hurdles to keep him fit and try and protect his mark. If the weight is a nice weight too I definity backing this one.
#12
November 30th, 2009 09:11
I agree with that Neil. I did back him for the Irish National at 33s but it was a bit of a shock win and his run at Wincanton wasn’t great. However, on Saturday he confirmed that the Irish National win was certainly no fluke and to finish third behind a monster and a well-handicapped 2nd season chaser was a great run. Very importantly he’s shown that he can run to a high level on a left-handed track as before Saturday his best runs had all been going the other way.
#13
May 4th, 2010 13:33
as the owner of Niche Market i think it only fair to share with you that the horse was struck into at the 12th fence in this years national. thankfully he will be ok but still jumped alongside Don’t push it till Bechers second time round.
he absolutely loved the fences and we’ll never know what might have been due to the injury.
but he will be aimed specifically at the National next year and will arrive with less races under his belt. with a bit of luck !!!
#14
May 9th, 2010 20:25
cheers graham
brilliant stuff, hope he’s fine now and you can keep us updated throughout the year
Quick question however, i have a few theories on the ‘Presentings’. They are generally great jumpers, but just wondered whether they’ll quite get 36f. There is little evidence in the national itself as of yet, but just wondered what your thoughts are
#15
May 9th, 2010 23:32
Hi Graham, with regards to the Aon chase, how did you feel afterwards?
Were you pleased with the run, or were you concerned that the weight of Niche Market would suffer for running Denman so close before his departure. Was that the only key race available or was the a target race after the weights were announced.
#16
May 10th, 2010 23:26
Yeah, thanx Graham, and glad to hear ‘Nich’ is ok…
#17
May 11th, 2010 07:20
i agree to some extent about the Presenting distance question, the only problem being I own Presenting’s only Grand National winner so far !! but with The Niche the stamina comes from the dam’s side.
but i thoroughly agree that Presenting are fantastic jumpers.
#18
May 11th, 2010 07:23
as regards the Aon chase, we wanted to run at Exeter the day after but that was abandoned.
in all honesty,the instruction to Andrew was to go and find Denman, because we believed that if you come down the right hand side of Denman in the last 1/2 mile of a race he panics, and he did.
#19
May 11th, 2010 07:28
as regards after the race i was gutted, because The Niche idoled when he was left on his own for so long. but i do think Tricky Trickster left his season behind there with the effort that was made to catch The Niche.as regards weights, we did check with Phil Smith before we ran to the extent of what damage could have been done to the h/cap mark. and we took a chance. But i do feel we made a mistake by not running in the Gold Cup.
#20
May 11th, 2010 07:38
instead of the William Hill as a prep run for the grand national. but we have already got our race plan in place for next season and with a bit of luck we will get to Aintree with a horse that has run less races.plus The Niche was dropped 4lbs for his run in the National.
sorry, for prattling on but it’s only the second time i have ever joined a blog of any description.
#21
May 13th, 2010 14:34
Presentings are great jumpers, but i suppose i’m biased on the distance question as I own the only Grand National winning progeny of that sire. but The Niches’ dam side is steeped in stamina.
i was gutted after the Aon, because we set out to pressure Denman as we thought he was capable of making a mistake and he did, but to be done on the line was very disappointing.
we were due to run at Exeter the day after Newbury but that was abandoned and that was our main aim.
as regards the national weights we checked before the Aon with Phil Smith to what sort of damage we might have done to our mark, and decided to have a go.
as for Niche Market, he finally starts his summer break tomorrow as he is due to be finally turned out after his injury.
#22
May 14th, 2010 22:14
Hi Graham,
Great stuff – I hope you’ll see from the other threads that we are a friendly bunch and that 99% of our chat is about NH racing and predominantly the National so its great that we get to hear first hand about one of favourites from last years race (and hopefully he will be up there in 2011 as well!)
We have experimented with a few posts on flat racing this year just to keep people interested through the summer but trying to find winners in the National and the other big jump races is the general idea – and this tends to throw up plenty of discussion along the way so please do feel free to keep adding your thoughts.
#23
May 15th, 2010 00:30
Thanks for the input, Graham. I thought that Niche Market form had been solid all season. That even with the weight above 11 stone you had a leading fancy there, and even though the gamble didn’t pay off I am not sorry that I backed it. Glad it came out of the race unscathed.
Do you have a say in the animal or just a part owner, because I knew a elderly couple who lived near me they were part owner of a horse once. A two year old trained by Jack Berry, they were only part owners and the horse died before seeing a racetrack, this was quite a few years ago.
#24
May 15th, 2010 08:03
Hi Graham,
Keep the information coming, I first heard of Niche in 2009 when one of my friends gave me a tip on him at Cheltenham, unfortunatly he came in 7th or eighth.
Underterred and i never like betting on favourites anyway as see that as poor value, anyway you get more satisfaction from a long odds winner, i saw Niche was racing in the Irish Grand National and had a little tickle on Betfair at 74/1, that was a happy day and wil keep a keen eye on him this year, unless he becomes the favourite !!
#25
May 15th, 2010 12:36
Hi Graham, I checked out Racing Post details about Niche Market and see that you are indeed the sole owner of Niche Market, so my last question (110) can be ignored, thank you for letting us know about Niche Market and good luck with next year’s target.
#26
May 16th, 2010 00:01
Graham, your a star for coming on here and sharing your thoughts, we are very privileged.
Thankyou
#27
May 16th, 2010 22:02
Thank you Graham Regan. I stayed loyal to The Niche this year despite the weight and he will be once gain be on my short list in 2011 – I just knew there had to be an explanation for this year.
I have a feeling we dont need to worry about Denman – I cant see him running in the GN.
The Niche for 2011 – now I like the sound of that!
#28
May 17th, 2010 12:30
you bunch really are very keen on The Niche !!!
i went to see him on Saturday as he has just come out of his box after 5 weeks recovering from the cut he got in the national and has been turned out for the summer.
the plan is pensilled in for next season, the united house handicap at ascot end of october followed by the becher chase or the henessey again.
then we’ll aim all out for the National.
with a bit of luck.
#29
May 17th, 2010 21:43
Hi, Graham what races are targeted for him to get fit for next year’s national, or like State Of Play would he go there direct?
#30
May 18th, 2010 11:09
Would you be going for the Gold Cup this year as well, Graham?
Because you mentioned the William hill chase being a mistake, or are you going to skip cheltenham altogether.
Thank you Neil S(cranney).
Ps This is what I like about jump racing the smaller owners and trainers, too many sheiks about on the flat game.
#31
May 18th, 2010 13:07
Depending on what happens in the Becher / Hennessy. he may run in the graduation chase at Newbury over Christmas.
The Niche won’t go to Cheltenham as it is too close to Aintree and i’m begining to think he does’nt act around there.
he may run in a 2 mile 5 chase at Newbury the first week of March and then on to Aintree.
#32
May 18th, 2010 16:06
Cheers for that, Graham, and good luck with The Niche.
#33
May 19th, 2010 17:44
A very good game plan graham but be careful – if he wins the Becher Chase (which he is well capable of doing) the handicpaer will clobber him big (maybe not such a problem in the National if Denman was to run but I for one dont think he will)-it would be a lot safer to have a good run in the Hennessy along with many other good runners.
If Denamn does not run in the Ntional (we wont know for some time) I think it would help if The Niche were to lose a few pounds of his back at some point.
#34
May 19th, 2010 18:59
I personally can’t see Denman turning up and the connections are represented by Big Fella Thanks. When they said last year that they’ll run Denman I think they were just caught up in the spare of the moment.
I too think the Hennessy is a better option, with no Denman in that The Niche might win it too, and probably a hurdle race to keep him fit and protect his mark.
This is just a suggestion, Graham.
#35
May 20th, 2010 19:59
Hi Graham, as owner of Niche Market, I was wondering whats your views about [no hoper] like Cerium in the national.
I don’t want to be unkind to anyone but he did deny your horse in 2009.
I think the admin put it better in the thread [Grand National Runner 2010: Cerium]
[Start Quote]
Thanks for the input guys.
I seemed to remember that one of the horses that justed missed out on a place last year [2009] was Niche Market and considering what he went on to do in the Irish National wouldn’t we have had a potenitally more interesting (and truly representative) race if a horse such as this had run in the race?
I realise the point I am trying to make may have been negated by the fact that Cerium actually finished 5th and that Arteea was competitive for a good part of the race but in the case of Contraband the year before he wasn’t going to stay four and half miles in a month of Sundays and really had no place been in the race.
Irrespective that the GN is a handicap it is the premier National Hunt race of the year and whilst, as Ben [Aitken, author of narrowing the field,] says, the fun horses make it easier for us to narrow down the field, the Grand National should be full of horses that have a realsitic chance of winning and even given the performance of Cerium and Arteea I don’t believe that either had that whereas Niche Market and others may have.
[end quote].
#36
May 20th, 2010 22:25
Maybe the National would have been a year early for him that year. I’m a great believer in racing that sometimes things happen for a reason. Fascinated by that theory about Denman. Such an enigmatic horse.
#37
May 21st, 2010 09:13
to answer your question Neil, i was very annoyed to miss out on the national in 2009 when i saw what some of the horses actually were in the race.
i have never had a great desire to have a runner in the grand national,cheltenham has always been the Mecca for me.but when you have a horse who is a model for a race like the National and you can’t get a run in the race because some yak who has a handicap mark from 4 years previous is in the race is very frustrating.
but as Maureen says there is a reason for everything in racing, and we would never have won the irish national if we had have got in.
#38
May 21st, 2010 11:12
Hi Graham,
Considering your horses excellent efforts at Fairyhouse, Ascot and Newbury etc are you a little disappointed with his returns in his two NH Chase runs at Cheltenham? I know he was a big price in 2008 but remember he drifted a lot in the betting on the day of the race in 2009 – does he not act at Cheltenham as well as other tracks or is the four miles there just stretching him too far? Those two races had just always stopped me from being 100% confident about him winning the National as I was worried the Irish National distance might be as far as he wanted to go. Could you give us your thoughts?
Thanks
Darren
#39
May 21st, 2010 11:36
the first year he ran in the national hunt chase we did’nt know ourselves if he would get the trip and he was ridden to get the distance. he came with a wet sail and flew home from the 3rd last to come 4th. the second time he ran in the race when he came 8th was a disater!!!! we backed him as if defeat was out of the question from December and to our total dismay he drifted like a barge on the day of the race. the rest of my thoughts on this run remain between me and the jockey!!!
we think he gets the national trip for sure, but we will have to wait till next year to find out. his jumping is his biggest asset and he has a great cruising speed.
#40
May 21st, 2010 11:52
No argument there, Graham. Thanks for the reply to my question and one day I hope that Niche wins the Grand National for you, and one day if you own another horse, that it wins the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Do me a favour though if it turns out to be another Best Mate, no singing please [ only joking, you sing if you want to] lol.
#41
May 21st, 2010 12:02
There’ll be no singing !!! i can promise you that.
#42
May 23rd, 2010 04:19
How did you find Niche, Graham? Did you buy him at a sale or was he recommended to you? I’d love to one day be in a position to have a leg in a NH horse and always wonder how people get started? Is he your first or have you had others before him?
#43
May 23rd, 2010 12:40
Hi Graham, I see you used to own a horse called Battling Buster [trained by Paul Webber]
I won’t ask you why you decided to leave Webber as that was your decision, but what made you choose Bob [Buckler] was he recommended by someone, or a personal friend at the time. Did you considered other trainers like Pipe?
#44
May 23rd, 2010 15:37
” Graham Regan
May 20th, 2010 06:58
All suggestions are welcomed, they might not be actioned, but they are very welcome.
I am a great believer in not giving weight away in handicaps. We have been cuaght twice that way but have also won two big races getting weight.
my first choice is definitely the Hennessey with the Becher as a fall back.”
………………………………
I think that would be the route to take Graham. If he has the right OR (after Hennessey) at that point then how about a hurdle race or two to protect his OR rating (its what the Irish trainers have been doing for some time)? After the weights are out you could give him a good try in a key race to see what he’s got in reserve (but ofcourse you dont want him to “peek” too early – a difficult balance for any trainer/owner as always).
#45
May 24th, 2010 08:32
Morning People,
to answer the above questions.
When we lived in London i was introduced to Paul Webber who bought Battling Buster for us. unfortunately Buster did’nt battle and has been the worst horse we ever owned.
we moved to Somerset from London and being able to visit our horses is an important part of ownership for us, so Oxfordshire was too far away and the horse was brought down to the West country. so after initially being with Simon Burrough we ended up with Bob.
Bob bought The Niche at the Brightwells Cheltenham sales as we had had bumper horses and hurdlers we wanted a chaser and he was it. i still think we stole him for what we paid for him. he was lot no. 5 and i think everyone else must have been in the bar when the hammer came down on him.
the other horses i have owned are Battling Buster, No Sam No, She’s Our Daisy and Niche Market. (i did own Sean Thornton but i sold him before he ran at a track).
i have been very lucky as an owner as 3 out of the 4 horses who have run for me have been winners, but The Niche will most proably the best i ever own !!!
#46
May 25th, 2010 15:21
No Sam No; how wierd; thats just what I hear constantly when I’m on the phone to my daughter and her 2 year old is playing up in the background because mum’s on the phone. I think I’d be a wreck if I owned a chaser, although it was always my dream, although someone at Cheltenham told me that most of them never even reach the racetrack in her experience. You’ve been very lucky, but the good thing is that you really appreciate that luck.
#47
May 25th, 2010 19:30
Maureen, yes some don’t like the 2YO who was parted own by some neighbours of my.
Then when they do some don’t even win like Battling Buster.
Graham, you’re very lucky looks like each buy is better than the last. You obviously know what you’re looking for at the auctions.
Does racing pay for you though, I mean you have all those fees to pay like vets, blacksmith, trainers, etc, is the prize money you win enough to support a owner, or do you think they should improve it somehow.
#48
May 26th, 2010 06:51
i personally don’t get involved at the auctions, they are a minefield !!! but if you give your trainer an order for a specific type of horse and get a good bloodstock agent for a second opinion they tend to do the job for you.
does racing pay ?? you should’nt be relying on prizemoney in national hunt racing as it is diminshing all the time.you have to supplement the prizemoney with trying to have a touch somewhere along the way.
we have had three big coups in our time, one at Worcester with No Sam No and another at Taunton with She’s Our Daisy. and The Niche ? we backed him heavily for the Irish National at very big odds.(but we also had a black day at Cheltenham in the National Hunt Chase).
#49
May 26th, 2010 17:55
GRAHAM REGAN: Other than The Niche who do you fear the most at this stage for the Grand National 2011?
Thank you for all your comments. When The Niche wins next years Grand National can the Team all come and stand next to you and The Niche for a Team photo?? (cheeky I know but worth a try).
#50
May 27th, 2010 06:50
as regards next year’s National, well first, get your horse to the start line !!!
The race is getting better and attracting better horses.you have to respect State of Play and he has been dropped a few pounds for this year’s run. Black Apalachi will be layed out for it again. and yet again it all depends what Phil Smith does with the compressed handicap.
i’d love to see Denman go in it because the weights would be harder to frame !!!!
as regards a photo if The Niche was to do it ? that would’nt be a problem at all.
#51
May 30th, 2010 12:01
Thanks Graham. Hope we all make it to that photo call next year.
#52
May 30th, 2010 19:28
Hi Graham, hope Niche is fine, has he recovered from the cut he received during the national. When do you/Bob plan to start training him for the following season. Also I noted that his first run before last year’s Hennessy was rather poor, does he always need his first run of the season.
Do you have any other horses currently in training or is Just The Niche.
#53
May 31st, 2010 07:15
The Niche is grand, the cut has healed up well and he is out in the field on his summer holidays.
He will come back in on the 1st August and start all over again.
The Niche does always need his first run of the season to blow the cobwebs away and next season should’nt be any different, with Ascot potentially being his first outing followed by the Hennessey.
I only own one horse, NICHE MARKET.
#54
May 31st, 2010 15:15
If the Niche needs his first run, what’s his rest pattern?
By that I mean can he take a lot of racing in a small amount of time. Does he do well if his races were say 6 or 7 weeks apart.
What I am trying to say what conditions are best for him?
I’ve already established that he goes well on a flat track like Aintree instead of an undulating track like Cheltenham!
What going, etcetera.
P.S.
Please keep us up to date on his progress. Thank You.
#55
June 1st, 2010 08:36
We try to keep his runs to between 4-6 weeks apart.
going: nothing worse then soft. he hated the Heavy going at Newbury last December.
I don’t agree with the flat track principle, Fairyhouse is undulating, but I do think at Cheltenham things just happen too quickly around him.
#56
June 1st, 2010 11:49
Graham,may I just say thank you for your frank and informative posts. We are fortunate indeed to have you on here.
#57
June 3rd, 2010 15:10
Fairyhouse puts the fear of God into me. The fences seem so stiff and huge and there are so many fallers [Niche Market's race was horrible and I find it difficult to re watch it]. By comparison, the National fences seem challenging but kinder, but only to a horse that takes to them. Only my [amateurish] opinion.
#58
June 6th, 2010 10:54
Maureen,
i completely agree with you about the fences at Fairyhouse. They were once described to me by a jockey as being “big black and dangerous” there is absolutely no give in them whatsoever, and alot of good horses take terrible falls there.
the Aintree fences on the other hand have become alot easier in there construction and alot more horses seem to be able to jump them as compared to back in Red Rum’s time when they were even bigger.
i personally would like to see the national fences be made more difficult because the race should be a test of stamina and jumping ability, and i say that as someone who loves there own horse.
#59
June 8th, 2010 11:44
The National should be won by a horse who is a superb ‘lepper’ imo, otherwise it will just become a long distance race with a few jumps. Must admit that I hadn’t paid a lot of attention to Niche Market’s jumping; shall have to dig out the races and shall re watch the National again.
#60
June 8th, 2010 15:10
That’s the way the National is heading. i think there have only been 4 fallers at Bechers in the last 3 years !!!
as regards The Niches’ jumping, have a look at last seasons Hennessey and Aon races at Newbury.
#61
July 11th, 2010 16:19
Niche Market will be trained by Paul Nicholls next season with the Grand National being The Niche’s ultimate goal.
#62
July 13th, 2010 19:44
Hi Graham, got the news through racing post, as I didn’t expect anything until August. Obviously I respect your decision, but like Maureen I think the are better trainers for the national.
Racing post said the was no falling out with Bob Buckler, I was wondering why you picked Paul Nicholls above anyone else.
Good luck with the new season.
#63
July 14th, 2010 08:17
Graham,
Thanks for all the info on Niche Market. Is it possible that you can expand a bit on why he’s been moved to Paul Nicholls? I can understand you not wanting to go into too much detail as to why he has moved from Bob Buckler, but what made you go with Paul Nicholls and not National-winning trainers like David Pipe, Venetia Williams, NTD etc?
Cheers.
#64
July 14th, 2010 15:37
After reading some of the cruel things said about you on other blogs (racing post blog to be specific ) I know for whatever reason you choose Paul over Bob, you must have had a long hard think about it and thought it was for the best.
We on this blog don’t condemn you for your decision, I always think that the owner(s) alone are the only people able to make that decision, and only them, the trainer & sometimes jockeys are the only ones qualified to judge which race to aim for and what route to take.
Trouble with too many punters these days is they can all do better than the connections without having a clue.
Hope you keep this blog close to your heart, and keep us informed of The Niche progress. Hope the Niche wins you the prize you seek and Clare Balding on an April afternoon is asking you what’s it like to own the winner of the Grand National.
#65
July 25th, 2010 12:46
Hello All,
Like everything you read in the papers, there are two sides to every story !!!
The emotions shown on the comments section of the Racingpost might have been quite disparraging of me but the decision to move The Niche was’nt made overnight and was the direct result of issues which were raised over a year ago and not actioned.
why Paul Nicholls alot of you ask ?
well apart from being the Champion Trainer for the last five years, i saw it as an opportunity when Big Fella Thanks left to see what Paul could do with The Niche as regards the Grand National.
Although Paul has never won the Grand National nor had AP McCoy until this season but He has to win it eventually and why not haev a go with The Niche ???
Let’s just see what happens and take it each race at a time, but first get your horse to the start line.
#66
July 25th, 2010 15:29
Thanks Graham for the reply, and I am already sitting pretty (so to speak) on a bet on Niche Market. Good luck
#67
July 28th, 2010 22:47
Hi Graham, The Niche summer holidays are nearly over, when does he begin his training and if possible ( if you wish) can you tell us Paul’s general feelings about the horse when he has a training run.
Unless the is a trainer/owner confidentiality that might be broken in doing so.
Thank you, Neil S.
#68
July 29th, 2010 07:04
The Niche returned to training the week before last and i’m sure will be brought along slowly but surely.
I would’nt see it as being a problem to give you a general overview of Paul’s opinion as we go forward.
#69
July 29th, 2010 08:48
Thanks, Graham. Cheers!
#70
August 1st, 2010 07:28
Hi graham great to get your thoughts again, just wondered what your thoughts are on potential jockeys now your at Paul nicholls. Was part of the appeal of going to ditcheat the chance to get ruby on are u more than happy to renew your successful partnership with harry Skelton?
#71
August 1st, 2010 11:37
I think we are a long way off about worrying who rides The Niche yet.
I’m sure that will all get sorted out the nearer it comes to him running.
But it was’nt a factor in deciding to move the horse to Ditcheat.
#72
October 2nd, 2010 23:41
Hi Graham, don’t know if you’re still monitoring this thread but if you are how’s Niche Market doing. He must be ready soon for his seasonal debut if he’s to have a chance in the Hennessy approximately in 2 months time.
#73
October 3rd, 2010 09:45
Don’t worry, I check these threads every day.
The Niche is very well and is getting on grand. He appears to be thriving on his new regime and the trainer is very pleased with where he has him at this stage.
As for his seasonal debut, We’ll just have to wait and see. He may just go straight to the Hennessey but all plans are fluid.
The Hennessey is still the aim, and with some of these stable open day reports, it looks like he won’t have to carry much weight in it either.
Onwards and Upwards.
#74
October 3rd, 2010 10:25
If he does go straight to the Hennessy would he have a realistic chance of winning, I ask this because I remember last year where is first race was less than impressive but made up for it since.
#75
October 3rd, 2010 11:30
I completely agree with you on The Niches’ first time out runs in the past.
Let’s just say he’ll be competing with a different level of fitness first time out this season !!
#76
October 3rd, 2010 18:17
Posted this earlier today on current main thread, thought I should put it up here too.
Haven’t read through this thread properly yet, been on a long holiday from racing, after finding the GN winner again and failing to stick to my guns! Over studying again,. you should know who the winner is around new year!
The GN always comes down to 10 possible winners for me and it was harder to narrow down from there than ever, but Graham, the Niche was on my list!
I do have a soft spot for him, but its already been a fruitful spot for me and you own a fine horse.
Graham, forgive my honest remarks,.. or is it clarity of reflection?… but I do think the extra weight he got beating denman and will get in future may scupper his chance of winning.
Don’t Push It was a proven weight carrying winner and won well, Niche needs to improve again with the extra weight basically, atleast you know the higher weights are not as big an obstacle in the modern day national.
Anyway heres what I put on other thread…
…wow! interesting stuff to have Niches owner on here, thanks for pointing out the big scoop Neil
I like many here are quite a fan of the Niche, not just cause he was my big Irish Nat winner, but cause he seems such a lovely national type.
I know the GN isn’t everything, but he has classic GN looks great movement and attitude, he looked tip top before the GN, so what happened? I will have to read through this special insight thread we have been blessed with for clues, how fantastic.
My main worry as a niche lover is he doesn’t seem to like cheltenham, so is it worth aiming him at that meet before the GN,… No, certainly not a hard race like the Gold Cup. Look at Mon Mome this year, great staying on run GC, uncharacteristic fall in GN when tired. But what do I know, Hedgehunter gave the double a better shot still didn’t win.
Think thats gonna be a hard decision if all goes well, especially in camp Nicholls, but I just don’t think he acts at cheltenham. Maybe this can be put to bed once and for all after the next cheltenham meet?! or he’ll give us all a bigger headache! ha, haa.
Anyway, can’t wait for his first run!
I love Niche and I backed him GN2010 even with the extra unnecessary poundage!
Thanks for including us lot in the life of such a national horse Graham! and good luck.
One more amateur tip, please get three runs into him before new year
#77
October 3rd, 2010 19:47
I’d be inclined to go the opposite way with the Niche and give him a very quiet season with one main aim for the year.
Thought you might have gone for the ascot race at the end of the month (unless he isnt ready) or possibly have some fun with him over hurdles. I thought he ran very well in the hennessy last year but the reason i would be a little against it, is the possible soft/heavy ground and the fact it took a lot of horses a long time to recover last season.
The Niche has nothing to prove in terms of class and has no problems of getting into next years national. The route i would be looking to go is to keep him over hurdles until weights are out and run him in the grimthorpe at Donny at the start of March. I’d try and avoid any soft ground conditions for him with the possibility of a mid-season break which worked out very nicely for last years winner. Whatever ever you decide to do, i wish you all the best and its great to have you on board
Hope you can keep us all informed with plans for any other Nicholls runners as well
#78
October 4th, 2010 09:41
I agree with you on The Niche and his performances around Cheltenham. I feel things tend to happen too fast for him in the Festival races so becuase of this he won’t run at the Festival next March. and also because it is too close to the National itself.
The Hennessey has always been the aim because of his potentail to run at a good gallop and his staying ability.
i think you will see a much fitter horse then last season and as The Niche was dropped by the handicapper after the National we have to take our chance again.
As for plans after that we will have to wait and see, a novice hurdle race or a graduation chase may be the way forward until the National weights come out.
#79
October 4th, 2010 09:48
KJ,
just to answer your question on what happened in this year’s National to The Niche.
The Niche got struck into at the 12th fence which put paid to his chance.
#80
October 6th, 2010 12:51
Hi Graham, just seen in my racing paper (Weekender ) that your horse is eligible for graduation chases and may take some of them en route to Aintree.
Obviously the first one is Hennessy but you must have certain races you or Paul is keen on, if conditions are right.
#81
October 6th, 2010 15:50
Hello Neil,
yep the plan is in place for the season.
The Niche can run in Novice Hurdles as well as Graduation chases and this option may come in handy between The Hennessey and the Grand national weights being announced on Feb. 16th.
#82
October 6th, 2010 18:24
Was the thought of possibly taking hurdles yours or Paul’s idea or was it someone on here who persuaded you.
Because its seems to be a route all modern national winners take en route to the national.
#83
October 7th, 2010 08:29
Unfortunately, no it was’nt anyone on here who gave us the idea of running in Novice Hurdles, it was always an option last season just one we did’nt take.
The Niche running in novice hurdles and graduation chases will all depend on what happens in The Hennessey.
#84
October 9th, 2010 16:36
Graham, thanks for the response and I like the plan, considering a hurdle race as part of your pre weights prep is a classic winning pattern.
TC I agree you don’t want too tough a season with the GN aim, thats why an early pre new year agenda of three runs seems almost compulsory now (even just 3 hurdles races, Hedgehunter) and a calmer spring seems ideal.
Recently I think the winner has run just once or twice since new year. The horse is racing fit from early ‘campaign’, has time to recover and will to perform in April.
Just ticking over in early spring with one or two races can vary enormously from a hurdle race at cheltenham (Don’t Push It) – reads ‘behind, mistake PU’…to carrying top weight in a hard slog at the Midlands National(Mon Mome) two weeks before winning the GN, what a performance that was.
Its all about knowing your horse, playing by the rules ( ha! Mon Mome chuckle) and luck in the end.
#85
October 12th, 2010 16:10
Surely a Hennessy win would push his weight sky high for the National?
#86
October 15th, 2010 21:32
Hennessy
Nich Market V Pandorama – now who will win?
Confirmed today that Pandorama will run in the Hennessy if there is soft in the ground (very likely I think) – and the trainer will only run him if he’s fit enougth to do justice to his ability.
A vety progressive runner but will he look so good up against the big boys???? (not been beaten over a chase yet, only lost once over hurdles).
Views on this Graham/anyone?
#87
October 15th, 2010 21:38
” maureen
October 12th, 2010 16:10
Surely a Hennessy win would push his weight sky high for the National?”
Maureen I think a good 2/3 or even creditable 4th/5th would be just what the tariner ordered for preparation for the GN (its often the placed runners that do well in the GN). Now I think a good 3rd would look nice but if Denman was to run and win you dont want him to finish to close do you??
#88
October 16th, 2010 12:32
Pandorama, Burton Port, Diamond Harry etc..
All these horse and many more have been mentioned to run in the Hennessey. You can only take on what shows up on the day.
If The Niche runs anywhere up to what he did last season he will be there or there abouts.
I think it is very hard for the handicapper to review the race if Denman goes close. The Niche only went up 2 lbs last season for being beaten by 7 lenghts by Denman.
The handicapper drew the new handicap marks from Barber Shop and not Denman becsuse so many horses ran from outside the handicap, as will happen this year if Denman starts.
You can only take each race as it comes.
#89
October 22nd, 2010 10:31
The Niche’s first run of the season will be at Wincanton on Nov. 6th in the Badger Ales Chase.
#90
October 26th, 2010 15:55
“The Niche’s first run of the season will be at Wincanton on Nov. 6th in the Badger Ales Chase.”
Thanks Graham – so the Niche will be spot on for the Hennessey, its cleraly best to get one prep race into him first and preferably 3 runs by Jan 1st even if over Hurdles after the Hennessey, if he does well.
Now if Denman runs in the Hennessey despite what i have said about him probably being on a downward path if he is going to do well this season it is most likley in his first race and the most likely winner of the Hennessey unless there is something very very progressive waiting in the wings and many are lining up to be just that (and would not be surprised for something “special and progressive” to win). Would be very happy for the Niche to come 2/3/4/5th but not too close to Denman if he won again as a good prep for the GN.
Cant wait for the card.
#91
October 26th, 2010 16:26
I don’t know about 2/3/4/5 ??? i’d like to win the Hennessey !!!
I do of course agree with you on the progressive types, i just hope they are good enough to go the gallop and jump under pressure, because i don’t think they’ll be hanging around for the progressive ones to get into it !!! roll on the 27th of November.
as for Wincanton, The Niche is very well and ready to go. so fingers crossed everything goes ok.
#92
October 28th, 2010 22:26
Think this year’s hennessy is already looking much better than last season’s. Really like Weird Al and Pandorama for the race. Any ideas what mark Denman will run off? Would be a little harsh keeping him on 182 as he failed to achieve in any of his runs after the hennessy last season
They’ve got Ellerslie George nicely handicapped for the Wincanton race again, by dropping him back on his last couple of starts
#93
October 29th, 2010 12:46
“Really like Weird Al and Pandorama for the race”. Agreed TC they look good at this early stage. But work on stats/trends and fianl card etc before I commit myself. Will be a TOP race for sure this side of Christmas.
#94
October 29th, 2010 12:49
Graham winning the Hennessey would be great for the Niche but would you rather win the Hennessy of the Grand National?? If he wins the Hennessey he would most likely have too high an OR to win the GN (but who knows after the last two years with winning weights getting higher and higher?).
#95
October 29th, 2010 13:02
I want to win every time the horse goes to the races but that just does’nt happen.
As i have stated on here since joing this blog, take every race as it comes.
The Badger Ales is first up for The Niche, and he is very well and will be ready to go.
The Hennessey is, yet again, looking like a cracking race to be even a part of. But if for one minute we could get close to winning it, We’ll deal with the consequences after the race.
#96
October 30th, 2010 00:22
Graham Regan
October 26th, 2010 16:26
I don’t know about 2/3/4/5 ??? i’d like to win the Hennessey !!!
Hi Graham Hennessy winners have a poor record in the Grand National in the same season, fact is no Hennessy winners have gone on to the national, but beaten horse is a different matter. Of course this may depend on how many Hennessy winners have been aimed at the grand national though.
However these are merely what’s happened in the past, and trends can and do change.
#97
October 31st, 2010 13:36
It’s swings and roundabouts !!!
Very few people think Presenting’s stay a trip further then 3 miles 2, but I own his only Grand National Winning Progeny. So I have to believe !!!
I feel The Hennessey has become a Gold Cup trial and people now differentiate between the Gold Cup and The National. With the winner instantly penned into the Gold Cup frame and the also rans classed as too slow for the Gold Cup and thus become National horses.
#98
November 2nd, 2010 14:26
Great stuff Graham. Thanks for all the updates.
I guess with The Niche being top-weight or close to it and 3m1f around Wincanton possibly being a bit on the sharp side for him this is really a pipe-opener for the Hennessy? With Ruby riding in Down Royal will we see the horse reunited with Harry Skelton or will you put young Popham up to claim a few lbs off?
#99
November 2nd, 2010 16:51
Would love to see Niche run in the Hennessy + Welsh Nat. + Pilar chase and then Gold Cup. Kauto and Denman will be 11 next march, last winner older than 10 to win the Gold Cup was What a Myth 1969 age 12. Niche will be 10 like Cool Ground and Cool Dawn.
“his jumping is his biggest asset and he has a great cruising speed”.
Say no more,
#100
November 2nd, 2010 17:38
I may be wrong but I don’t think Graham sees Niche Market as a Gold Cup horse. Decent animal he undoubtedly is, but I don’t think he’s Gold Cup class (sorry Graham!!)
#101
November 2nd, 2010 21:10
Hi team can anyone help me, im wondering what the bottom weight will be in the Hennessy if Kauto star runs (official rating 190) trying to work out how much horses like Pandorama will be out of the handicap, any help would be much appreciated.
#102
November 3rd, 2010 08:50
I’m lead to believe The Niche is very well and has taken all the training in his stride.
He will carry a big weight at Wincanton on Saturday and I suppose that would go against him. He will be ridden by Harry Skelton, who has never let us down. Historically he has always needed his first run of the season but i also think he has’nt been this far forward before.
The bottom weight in The Hennessey wil be 10 stone but you can put a claiming jockey on your horse to reduce your weight below that level.
COME ON THE NICHE !!!
As for a run in The Gold Cup, i just don’t think he is quite up to that standard and things at Cheltenham tend to happen a bot quick for him, much aS I’d love him to be that standard a think he just comes up short.
#103
November 6th, 2010 10:27
Good luck today Graham, fingers crossed for a good run and he comes back safe.
#104
November 6th, 2010 11:07
Thanks very much for that.
Fingers crossed for a big run.
#105
November 6th, 2010 12:38
Good luck today with The Niche. I see he’s favourite at the moment. Is there something you haven’t told us!!
#106
November 6th, 2010 13:44
Good luck Graham hoping he runs well and comes back safe and sound .
#107
November 6th, 2010 16:41
Hope Niche is ok Graham keep us informed please when you get chance ta
#108
November 6th, 2010 17:34
Graham I also hope the Niche is okay.
#109
November 6th, 2010 18:07
Hope the horse is none the worse for that tumble today mate.
#110
November 7th, 2010 03:49
Graham, what happened to the Niche’s regular jockey?
Will he still get the ride in future races or his not strong enough.
#111
November 7th, 2010 12:08
Any news on the horse Graham?
Neil, Sam Twiston-Davies only got the ride at the last minute with Harry Skelton breaking a collar bone earlier in the day. Bad day all round for Nicholls’ jocks with Ruby breaking his leg at Down Royal.
#112
November 7th, 2010 12:26
Good Morning,
The Niche is none the worse for his fall today. He slipped on the landing side of the fence and just could’nt find a leg to stand up.
Sam had him in the exact position where we asked him to be and he was supposed to move up on the final lap. but THAT’S RACING. It happens to the best of them.
As for Harry Skelton, he broke his collar bone earlier in the day at Wincanton, but having spoken to him this morning he thinks it will only be 3 weeks on the sidelines, unlike the unfortunate Ruby Walsh who it looks will be alot longer.
#113
November 7th, 2010 12:49
Glad to see he’s OK Graham. Hennessy still the plan? Guess there is no chance of Kauto running at Newbury now, so you wouldnt be far out of the handicap if Denman runs. Will be intrigued over who gets the Kauto ride on boxing day
#114
November 7th, 2010 13:02
Thanks for that,
Yep, The Hennessey is still the plan for The Niche.
As for jockey plans, you can imagine they are all a little bit up in the air for the moment.
#115
November 7th, 2010 13:03
Delighted to hear Niche is none the worse for his fall as you say thats racing , and thanks again for keeping us all updated
#116
November 7th, 2010 14:26
Graham,
Thanks for the update. Glad the horse is ok.
Yes, Nicholls will be having a few nighmares regarding jockey bookings over the coming weeks and possibly months. Obviously someone else will have to ride the stable big-guns (Kauto, Denman, Big Bucks etc) but in big races like the Paddy Power and Hennessy he is usually mob-handed and two of his regulars are on the sidelines.
#117
November 7th, 2010 15:41
Also glad to hear that Niche is ok – we will all be looking forward to his next run
#118
November 7th, 2010 16:13
thanks for posting Niche is ok Graham.
I thought it was just a bad footing slip, but was concerned about him slamming into the ground with his shoulder, seems the jockeys came out worse yesterday, but atleast they all live to fight another day!
Still looking forward to his first finishing line..
#119
November 7th, 2010 16:35
Very emotional day, racing wise, all round; still tearfull after Zenyatta’s defeat [so close], and not sure what to make of Kauto’s victory. Am I right in thinking that it’s the first time The Niche has come down..but good to hear that he and Sam are ok. It’s always difficult when a horse loses it’s regular pilot; The Niche and Harry seem to get on brilliantly, and I have to say that my first thought was that Sam didn’t know him as well. Good to heat that he’s fine, though. Onwards and upwards.
#120
November 7th, 2010 23:14
Graham Regan – dont worry even the best of the best have the odd fall or unseating and like many others the Niche has the class to come back from this and surprise us all. Can you give the Niche an apple from all of us and wish him well.
I will never forget One Man a horse so dear to me who always gave his all making that one fatal fall after at last winning at the Cheltenham festival. The good news for all of us is that we still ahve the Niche to fight another day. I’am with you every inch of the way this year and hope he will be ready and primed for that one big special day when he wins the GN and we all get to have that photo with you and the Niche!!! Well thats the plan and the dream and to make it happen we have to believe in it and we do.
#121
November 8th, 2010 10:53
Can i thank you all for your thoughts and concern for The Niche. They are greatly appreciated.
I think we were in shock when we saw him come down as it has never happened before and you begin to think your horse is bullettproof. But onwards and upwards, he’s ok and will go for the Hennessey off a low weight and we’ll see what happens.
And as I said before, “if” he was lucky enough to win the National the photo is still on for you all.
#122
November 8th, 2010 17:56
I’ve often wondered how I’d feel if ‘my’ horse came down. Oh, Systemsman, I can remember the day we lost One Man..I’d been so ecstatic when he won at Cheltenham. I was actually watching the race in the bedroom, half dozing because I’d had a busy morning at work. My daughter was downstairs playing the piano. The second he fell the sky here turned grey and it started hailing; I screamed to my dughter that One Man was dead..[I think we all knew he was gone straight away]. I cried myself to sleep for a week and eventually put his name in a locket and wore it round my neck, which was cathartic. I wrote to Clare Balding who had been covering the race that day, and got a lovely reply from her. Years later I spoke to his owner and told him I’d cried for a week. M’dear, he said..I cried for two years. It was only recently that I was able to watch a video of one of his races, but still couldn’t watch it without the tears flowing. And then Strong Promise, his ‘shadow’ was lost. It’s because they are so brave and beautiful that we love and respect them so much, isn’t it? Safe passage, The Niche, we’re all behind you.And,if you can jump the fences at Leopardstown,you can jump anything!
#123
November 8th, 2010 18:03
Something I was meaning to ask..when a chaser comes down in a race does it affect his handicap mark..ie if he looks as if he would have won the race but for falling, does his mark still go up, or, if not in contention at the time does it go down? Or stay the same?
#124
November 8th, 2010 22:13
Iam glad The Niche is okay, but what was Sam’s opinion on his chances before the slip up.
Did he have a realistic chance to win?
#125
November 8th, 2010 22:20
maureen do you know if One Man has any relatives still running?? I have often wondered this. Couldnt belive that racing carried on that day after his death, a day of race mourning should have been declared!. I think the media didnt quite realise how many people loved One Man and the way he ran to win all the way taking on all comers, and how he jumped (has any horse jumped better?)- what a horse!! Goes to show its not just about betting is it!!
Back to the Niche – I would still be happy with a good place for him (anything from 1st to 6th)in the Hennessey bearing in mind some are using it as a Gold Cup prep race (and others as a GN prep race). All to play/run for. Still think a hurdle campaign (the Irish way!) after the Hennessey and up to weights day is the way to go provided he has the right OR to get in and does resonably well in the Hennessey.If he does not fire a run in the Welsh National or similar type of race may be needed (would that course be suitable for him? if not there must be other good races over Christmas that are suitable). At the end of the day its April and the GN that matters not Nov or December but ofcousre an encouraging start is nice (a 1st/2nd/3rd this season is needed by the GN winner).
#126
November 8th, 2010 23:01
I felt sorry for the connections of the horse that won; was it Opera Hat? Some people I spoke to years later said that they thought they’d never go racing again and that day was the saddest on a racecourse ever. But then the god of racing sent us Monets Garden, and I always feel that the old grey, his shadow and his trainer are all looking down and smiling. And, of course Mr Hales has got Neptune Collonges and Noland who could both run big races this year. The park course at Aintree scares me and I always think the National fences look far more inviting [suppose I don't have to jump them!].
#127
November 9th, 2010 12:39
NEIL S : The Niche was going well on Saturday up to the fall, travelled great and was jumping well, Sam had him in the exact spot where he was asked too but we will never know what might have been.
SYSTEMSMAN: I would think if The Niche did’nt win the Hennessey he may run in the Graduation chase at Newbury around Christmas and then wait for the Aintree weights.
3 runs before Christams maybe 1 or 2 before the National itself.
MAUREEN: a horse can go up in the ratings if he falls at either the last or second last fence in a race.
#128
November 9th, 2010 14:33
I have a cunning plan. I don’t like having bets on horses that I’m really fond of..never backed Dessie or One Man. However, as I end up having numerous bets on the National, but, if I do get the winner it’s usually the first bet that I have [think Mon Mome, 33/1 ante post etc], I shall have a bet on The Niche now.
#129
November 10th, 2010 02:46
by the way, I meant to say Fairyhouse not Leopardstown..yet another senior moment…..
#130
November 13th, 2010 14:53
Hi Graham, I was wondering as owner of Niche Market does this bonus scheme that Tote set up,
The totesport Classic Chase at Warwick,
The totesport.com Grand National trial at Haydock &
The Grand National itself
and get a quarter of a million for winning all 3 (split of course between owner/trainer/jockey & stable staff).
Tempt you into running your horse in these races, or is the season more or less map out for the Niche.
When I say mapped out I know that some races are fluid but in a perfect preparation, you and Paul knows the races you want to enter the Niche for.
#131
November 14th, 2010 11:30
Neil,
We more or less have races mapped out that lead to The Grand National.
It all stems around 3 races up to Christmas or around that time. Then see where we are at.
The Niche wo’nt run within 6 weeks of The National itself so that leaves Feb and early March for two runs in the new year before Aintree. ALL THINGS STAYING WELL !!!
I could do without any more incidences like last weekend along the way !!!
#132
November 14th, 2010 12:01
Agreed, and good luck!
#133
November 17th, 2010 19:26
Graham, I see that Niche Market will be in the long handicap, if Denman takes top weight off 11-12. Must be an excellent change to turn the tables, especially on rain softened ground.
#134
November 18th, 2010 08:55
it’s funny Neil no one else seems to have noticed that.
If The Niche runs up to anywhere near his best carrying 10st or less, if Harry Skelton is’nt fit, he must have a great chance of running into the frame.
He’s fit and well and has schooled well since Wincanton and he certainly won’t want for fitness.
Always nice to go racing under the radar and not be the headliner.
#135
November 19th, 2010 10:26
I can’t see how The Niche is better off with Denman this year.
Bottom weight is 10-00 (unless you have a claimer on board). Last year Denman ran off 174 and The Niche off 145 putting him 3lbs out of the handicap as he should have carried 9-11. This year Denman is racing from 8lbs higher on 182 but The Niche is only 3lbs higher on 145. That puts him 8lbs out of the handicap on 9-6 so he’s 5lbs worse off with Denman.
#136
November 20th, 2010 20:49
If you use The Aon chase as Niche latest efforts against Denman. Niche on level terms had the beating of Denman.
#137
November 22nd, 2010 12:13
Just been to see The Niche, he looks brilliant and schooled great as well.
Ian Popham will ride him on Saturday as Harry Skelton has’nt quite made it back in time. But there will be other days for Harry with The Niche.
So 9st 9lbs will be his racing weight, The Niche is going to think he’s been let loose !!!
COME ON THE NICHE.
#138
November 22nd, 2010 20:34
#139
November 24th, 2010 21:02
Thanks for the words of encouragement for Sat’s race , I have backed 3 already , Silver By Nature (Lucinda Russell seems quietly confident) , Carruthers and Bid Fella Thanks . I was waiting to hear what your views were re the Niche , now I know , I will back him ew and hope most of all , he jumps well , comes back safe and sound and the bonus would be a win/place , very best of luck .
#140
November 25th, 2010 09:27
Thanks for that,
I think being 8 lb out of the handicap is a factor. There are some class 3 mile chasers in the race and I suppose our lad would need a little further.
But he is fit and well and will run his race and we’ll just see what happens. It’s easier to go racing when no one is talking about your animal.
I have backed Taranis for the race as i think if he is back to anywhere near where he was and getting as much weight from Denman as he is it has to be a huge advantage.
#141
November 25th, 2010 19:25
Mr. Regan – Fair dinkum to you for that post and I wish you the very best of luck for a one-two result.
#142
November 25th, 2010 22:25
Yep thanks Graham hopefully racing will still go ahead , I appreciate your views as always and hope the Niche runs a blinder and comes home safe and sound Im on at 75s on Betfair , Mon The Niche !!!
#143
November 26th, 2010 01:42
JUST WANT TO ADD MY GOOD LUCK, GRAHAM! HOPE THE NICHE RUNS A GOOD RACE, HOPE HE WINS ON SATURDAY AND AGAIN IN APRIL, BUT MORE IMPORTANT THAN THAT HOPE HE RETURNS SAFE AND SOUND!
#144
November 26th, 2010 13:35
Always thought of Taranis as a 2 1/2 mile horse, but then I’m going back to before his injury. Good luck to The Niche. Sounds as if there won’t be much give in the ground, which will rule out a few.
#145
November 26th, 2010 14:48
Graham,
Just wanted to wish you and The Niche all the very best for tomorrow. I hope he runs well in what looks like an extremely tough race. The fact that Irish and Welsh National winners and a Racing Post Chase winner can all be backed at 50/1 or bigger shows how good a field this is.
#146
November 27th, 2010 13:49
Good luck to the niche got in at 85/1 win only along with burton point, hey big spender, dream alliance, silver bn, brt and now taranis based on Grahame views. Let’s hope a longshots gets it as a quality race. Good luck
#147
November 27th, 2010 17:35
I thought Niche ran a good race, at a generous 40-1 had some money on him at ladbrokes which went to 5 places, lucky me!
Think that was a good show and in terms of target GN, he won’t get punished for it in the weights.
Was willing him (and Denman) on all the way, your horse faired really well in a really great race. Give him a pat from me Graham
#148
November 27th, 2010 17:53
Hi Graham, just read the race analysis of the sporting life website and I think you’re agree this is an understatement that connections of Niche Market would be pleased with that run. I know I’d be if I were in your shoes, sorry about him not winning, but have a good chance in the national itself in my opinion.
Before this race I placed him a genuine 20/1 for national, now I think he’s a genuine 15/1 or 16/1. The favorite in the national should be 10/1 in my opinion. Although I have a bet on betfair already on him well probably be topping up on him.
Good luck with the rest of Niche’s season.
#149
November 27th, 2010 18:07
Post 125 “Back to the Niche – I would still be happy with a good place for him (anything from 1st to 6th)in the Hennessey bearing in mind some are using it as a Gold Cup prep race (and others as a GN prep race).”
Graham I think you can regard 5th place as a job well done, a fine prep for the GN itself and everything still to play for (the dream lives on). We just need a 1/2/3 sometime along the way and to keep his OR on its current mark by racing is some hurdles to keep him fit. Another serious prep race after the weights are out I think but probably not before (find a easy hurdle race somewhere for that 1/2/3). A you know winning the GN takes planning and some cunning mixed in with some good luck on the day in running!!
I am a lot happier about his chances now.
#150
November 27th, 2010 18:11
Great result Graham for the Niche. I was sure he had 4th place sewn up, but none the less 5th place in a field with that class was a cracking result. Well done!!
#151
November 27th, 2010 18:43
Very well done Graham a really good showing from the Niche , a good run and safely home so all good , backed on betfair so didnt get any betting joy but the Niche done us all proud . Well done
#152
November 28th, 2010 00:24
Evening All,
Just got home from Newbury and I see The Niche is the new joint favorite with some bookies for The National.
I have never blown HIS trumpet on here but i think now he has a terific chance of winning The National.
We will protect his handicap mark until the weights come out but the time of the race indicates they went a proper gallop.
The other National horses could’nt live with the pace, but as i’ve always said My lad just jumps and gallops.
COME ON THE NICHE !!!
#153
November 28th, 2010 13:05
Fantastic yesterday Graham, well done can’t wait till the national fingers crossed for a safe build up
#154
November 30th, 2010 11:14
The Niche goes up 1 lb for coming 5th in the Hennessey. A rating of 149 must give him a great chance in April.
Interesting to see, the 1st,2nd and 5th went up, 3rd,4th,6th,7th and 8th were all dropped by the handicapper.
Certainly don’t think he’ll see a fence this side of the Grand National weights being announced.
#155
November 30th, 2010 12:18
Graham Regan “Certainly don’t think he’ll see a fence this side of the Grand National weights being announced.”
Spot on Graham OR 149 worth its weight in gold! All going to plan so far. We just need to find him a nice easy chase after weights out to give him some confidence with a 1/2/3 and ofcourse run him sometime within 50 days of the GN.
#156
November 30th, 2010 12:41
going nicely so far graham
Couple of spins over hurdles now and onto the grimthorpe/newbury veterans chase?
#157
November 30th, 2010 13:00
you guys keep those suggestions coming, they are all taken into consideration, not necessarilly actioned, but definitely considered.
#158
November 30th, 2010 16:00
Question Graham, and I hope it doesn’t offend you.
Niche you say likes the national fences and was along sides the eventual winner coming onto the second circuit. We know he pulled up at the 29th. So where did it go wrong, and what will be done differently to have a better chance of seeing the trip out?
Just to restate I don’t mean to offend you with this question, just curious if in hindsight he might for example be ridden with more patients, or even the opposite with the pace.
#159
November 30th, 2010 18:00
149 perfect my 70/1 is starting to look serious value!!!!!
#160
December 1st, 2010 01:02
Graham, I agree its interesting 1,2 &5! went up and fences are for after weights day, they definately have an eye on him and worry is phil may well give him extra anyway!
..sorry Niche I’m not calling you old 
3 runs before christmas (or new yr is it?) are GN winner ideal profile, so a run over hurdles to keep him going would be great and may I suggest like old Amberleigh House in his yr, I’d try working on that finishing speed!
You can teach an old horse new tricks
I know he is a Presenting horse and therefore a question mark over staying 4m4f, but if he’s thereabouts, to win he’s going to have to dig deeper at the end of a race.
#161
December 1st, 2010 02:53
Let Niche set the pace from the front and keep within a coat of paint of the rail (save ground). Then halfway round, slow it up, take a breather and when their not looking but the boot down – simple, like myself.
19/20 GN winners had 4 – 7 prep runs.
Miinnehoma ’94, OR153, age 11(RSA winner-M.Pipe) had only 2 prep runs, both in March – won a 20f. chase and then 7th. in the Gold Cup.
20/20 Last prep run within 49 days of GN.
1 had 16 days rest(Rough Quest-2nd.in Gold Cup).
12 had 20 – 28.
4 had 31 – 35.
3 had 42 – 49.
#162
December 1st, 2010 09:44
Miinnehoma them days rest might have suited them horses. I think Graham told me the Niche can have a rest pattern between 4-6 weeks, but Niche is not heading to Cheltenham for his preultimate race before the National.
At least that’s my understanding of Graham’s reply.
#163
December 1st, 2010 10:59
Just to answer some of the questions,
The Niche was pulled up in the National because he got struck into and came back with a hole in his leg like he’d been shot.
The Niche will NOT be going to the Cheltenham Festival!!!
He may have a break now, he does’nt really like heavy going and now we can avoid it. I would’nt want him to see a fence before the national weights are published.
So i think the plan is, but needs to be confirmed with the trainer, a small break- a Novice hurdle – national weights published – a chase – The National.
(all being well)
#164
December 3rd, 2010 21:37
Hi Graham, just a question in general about beening an owner.
While the weather bad the are some dodgy meetings at this moment. What I mean is the officials inspect say at 7.30. Then again at 8 and so on until its approaching noon then they call off the meeting.
Now for the ordinary racegoer that’s bad enough, but I thought as a owner, with travelling fees and jockey’s fees and all the million and one other expeinces I bet you sometimes wish they say meeting abandoned after the first couple of inspections.
I just thought what as a owner is your view on race course officials that can’t make a decision, early enough to save on everyones expensives.
#165
December 4th, 2010 13:25
To be totally honest Neil We’ve only ever been involved in one abandonement, that i can think of, and we got plenty of notice for it.
I think these racecourse officials have a tough enough job and they try their best to get a meeting on, and i guess you just can’t keep everybody happy.
Personally, I think they should always air on the side of pesimism, They declare an inspection for a reason, because they have doubts on the meeting going ahead. So give it till 9.00 and no later. Regardless of the fact if the temprature is getting warmer.
I’d rather hear later it could have gone ahead instead of setting off and being 100 miles from home and hearing the meeting is off !!
#166
December 24th, 2010 11:51
Miinnehoma them days rest might have suited them horses. I think Graham told me the Niche can have a rest pattern between 4-6 weeks, but Niche is not heading to Cheltenham for his preultimate race before the National. At least that’s my understanding of Graham’s reply.
#167
December 31st, 2010 14:04
Here we are New Years Eve, the end of another year !!!
14 weeks tomorrow to the Grand National, but who’s counting ???
Can i wish you all a Happy New Year and the best of luck finding the winner of The National.
(I’m looking no further then The Niche, but I’m biased.)
#168
January 2nd, 2011 16:15
I hear the Niche had a wind op after last run,
Kept that one under yer hat Graham!
Hope it does the trick and gives him that bit extra and a second wind at the end of his races to kick on and win a certain race
All the best to you and the Niche for the New Year.
#169
January 2nd, 2011 21:43
KJ,
The Niche made a noise in the Hennessey and we decided to get his wind done straight away. He was operated on the first week of December and is back in trainung after the necessary 4 week recovery period.
Having owned another horse with a wind problem it’s best to act straight away on the problem before it gets any worse and that’s what we did.
The Niche has had a rest and now the build up to the National can begin. He may run in the Greatwood Handicap at Newbury in early March but i’ll have to talk to Paul about that nearer the time.
#170
January 8th, 2011 01:34
Graham is the wind operation going to set him back in his training?
#171
January 8th, 2011 13:09
Neil, it has’nt set The Niche back in the slightest.
We had decided if he ran a big race in The Hennessey he would have a break in December anyway. The fact he made a noise in the race was probably a God send as he had his op straight away and now he is back in full training and Aintree is ahead of us.
I don’t know if you have read Paul’s comments on his Betfair website about The Niche but they were’nt the remarks of a man who seemed concerned about the operation, in fact i read them as being rather bullish. Which appears to have been reflected in the betting for the race as well.
Check the photos of The Niche that were taken last week on his Facebook page and see how well he looks in his coat.
Onwards and upwards and COME ON THE NICHE !!!
#172
February 17th, 2011 22:37
Evening Graham saw your other comments on other threads , just to say , hope the Niche is well and just about to back him ew tomorrow with PP already on him in win only market on Betfair . Keep the faith Graham he can do it , coming back safe and sound is excellent , winning will be the icing on the cake , Mon The Niche !!
#173
February 27th, 2011 23:01
Hi Graham cud I just ask you how much does it cost to enter a horse in the grand national. I’ve been thinking about horses dropping out and wondered how much money the owners wud lose. Does it cost same as the henessy for example? Hope you don’t mind me asking. Many thanks
#174
February 28th, 2011 15:16
There are various entry and forfeit stages for the national, and you pay more the longer you stay in.
IT’S £750 to enter THE NATIONAL, and then:
MARCH 1ST £950,
MARCH 22ND £1,000
APRIL 4TH £1500
The Hennessey was alot less to enter.
#175
February 28th, 2011 17:33
Thanks Graham. Come on the niche!!! Can’t wait
#176
March 1st, 2011 23:48
Hi Graham, So pleased for you that The Niche seems on course to run a huge race at Aintree and fingers crossed that you get the luck in running that you deserve after last year. Hope to see you again at the CC in a fortnight, your enthusiasm and frankness re The Niche is admirable.
#177
March 3rd, 2011 22:22
Alan,
Thanks for that, same time same place just another year on. see you in the bar.
talk soon.
#178
March 5th, 2011 11:11
To Graham re Niche,
I’m a big fan of your horse and backed him for last year’s race but I’m always concerned when I read a horse has a wind op as this appears in a lot of cases to only be a temporary overcoming of the problem. Are you happy with the outcome of Niche’s wind op?
I’m also curious as to why some trainers appear to use this technique more than others and this is something I’d like to look at in a thread later in the year. For example, Mr Nicholls appears to treat his horses for wind problems far more than the Henderson or Hobbs yards – or is it simply that the Nicholls yard provides more details to the media of what they are doing?
PS Good luck for today with Niche
#179
March 23rd, 2011 23:22
Hi Graham
I’m a Niche Market sceptic, so apologies! I know he is related to that old slowboat Amberleigh House but I just can’t see him lasting out. Hear The Echo won his National going away much like your boy but unfortunately the Strong Gale factor kicked in for him as it has for all Strong Gales in the National. Presenting is building a similar profile over four miles to Strong Gale (he never had a placed horse in the National) and has only had one winner over the distance in a minor affair (Present M’Lord although this was no doubt down to his Roselier mare). I think your boy will be there three out but I just see him hitting a wall. If you buy another horse go to France and get a Saint De Saints gelding out of a Quart De Vin mare!
#180
March 24th, 2011 09:27
Seven Towers,
I appreciate the lack of Presenting success over the ultimate trip but from my point of view it’s an absolute pleasure to own a horse like The Niche who is even being considered for the National.
But if he’s not in he can’t try and win, so we’ll just have to see what happens.
I have bought another horse but i went down the Old Vic route.
#181
March 24th, 2011 15:43
Right Graham, now you’re talking! Can I ask who the mare is?
The trouble now with NM is that although in my head I think he can’t win, you’ve been so open that I will now want him to win.
#182
March 24th, 2011 22:13
Hi Graham , just a general question how is the Niche all going to plan I trust and any closer to knowing who will be riding him yet ? Im still a believer , Mon The Niche ( though I did pick Ballabriggs to finish 1st in the votes page , and your fella 2nd ) I would not mind one bit if I got the forecast wrong !!
#183
March 25th, 2011 09:18
The Niche’s dam is Juresse out of Jurado.
The Niche is in great form, the lads at the yard are very confident of a big run. He looks great and has had a completely uninterupted preparation. The ground is coming his way and we are getting very excited and nervous.
We still don’t know who will ride the horse. Ruby will make his mind up in his own time, which is fine by me, I don’t envy him the decision. I don’t think we will want for a jockey come the day of the race !!!
#184
March 25th, 2011 13:15
Can’t you just send Ruby some videos of a couple of dodgy jumps by TMC
#185
March 25th, 2011 22:38
Hi Graham
Sorry, I meant the dam of the Old Vic gelding you have.
I didn’t realise that two of your horses had seen the backside of Denman!
#186
March 25th, 2011 22:46
My cousin Peter was the co-owner of a decent horse, with some input from me on the pedigree before he got involved. He had the money – I did not. Sadly Lord Rodney was killed when he was brought down in the Topham but I believed he could eventually be a four mile horse and although he never got to race over the extended trip I, in a way, felt vindicated when his half brother won the Borders National and upon trawling through these posts I see he was very popular on here. He was Rambling Minster. That’s about as close as I will ever get to being involved in the National myself.
#187
March 26th, 2011 10:26
Seven Towers,
the new horse is by old vic out of dawn’s double, by king’s ride/twilight gale.
#188
March 26th, 2011 20:25
HERE’S A QUESTION FOR YOU ALL,
WHO SHOULD I GET TO RIDE THE NICHE IN THE GRAND NATIONAL ???
#189
March 26th, 2011 23:37
niche is a cert this year. great weight,age,experience,form and jumper. ticks every box. please get ruby or 2nd choice sam thomas or barry G. its the finishing touch
good luck! ive lumped on
#190
March 27th, 2011 11:15
Ruby riding TMC then? would have to say Barry Geraghty
#191
March 27th, 2011 11:52
Dominic Elsworth.
#192
March 29th, 2011 21:51
Graham the big day is nearly on us, and in a way I would be sorry for this years national to come to an end. Your horse was the first backed this year as soon as you said this was all you were aiming for. I don’t think the season gone exactly to plan as you were planning a trip to Bangor. Unfortunately you didn’t have a lovely day, the day you went to Bangor. Because it didn’t happen.
On the racing post comments the was some insults thrown your way which I must strongly disagree with. First I’m sure you and Bob are still friends and second the decision to move Niche to Paul Nicholls was purely business.
I hope Paul does a one, two in the national with one of them being Niche
#193
March 31st, 2011 07:09
Thanks Neil,
I think those comments stem from some small minded people still think the horses move was’nt right.
Unfortunately for them it was the right move for me and the horse.
They’ll just have to get over it !!
#194
March 31st, 2011 12:09
Nearly there Graham may i take this opportunity to wish you the best of luck, have a great day and hope he comes back safe and sound.
I have said previously that if any trainer will do it his way and break a number of trends then Mr Nicholls is the most likely. So not too bothered about the Niche missing out on a couple of stats, good ground and a clear round of jumping thrown in with a bit of luck in running will see the Niche there challanging at the business end.
p.s. agree with severn towers, Dom Elsworth is vastly underrated in my opinion glad he seems to be getting over his recent health problems.
COME ON THE NIECHE
#195
April 5th, 2011 21:59
Graham best of luck with the Niche on Sat firstly thanks for your frank comments and updates . It is a shame , you have had so much sniping from some on the other pages , totally unfair imho . I hope the Niche comes back safe and sound and does you proud . Secondly I hope he wins , as I stated on my votes , I found it really hard to split the Niche and Ballabriggs I would have given them 5.5 points each if I could . God Bless Graham and heres to a safe and successful run from your fella on Sat . MON THE NICHE !!!!!!!!!!
#196
April 6th, 2011 01:02
After hours of reading this entire thread because I fancy Niche Market My thoughts are confirmed and I’m now remortgaging our house (well it was proposed to my husband). Can I also add how lovely it is to see an owner coming on here and sharing honest veiws and making people who will probably never get the chance to own a race horse feel like they’re actually involved with one. Hat’s off to you graeme! I hope your boy comes home on saturday safe and sound to the roar of the crowd the 2011 Grand National Winner what a feeling and everyone on here will feel like they own a hair. I hope he enjoys himself, because I for one will be willing him to that line!
#197
April 6th, 2011 13:29
Thank you so much for all your well wishes, we are nearly there now.
I should be looking forward to it but the nerves are frayed at this stage.
But as everyone of you says, as long as he comes back in one piece is the main thing and anything else will be a bonus.
Thanks again and COME ON THE NICHE !!!
#198
April 9th, 2011 09:32
Good luck Graham, thanks for posting. Come on the ‘Niche’
#199
April 10th, 2011 18:33
Hello All,
We are very proud of The Niche and how he ran yesterday. Words can’t describe how I felt to see him bowling along at the front of the field in the world’s gratest steeplechase.
But the most important thing of all is He is very much in one piece but a bit tired today.
He will now be roughed off for the summer and can have a well deserved break.
The plan is already in place for next season and We look forward to that.
I would just like to say how much i have enjoyed this blog through the Winter and the whole build up to the National. It’s a blog of opinions, whether we agree with them or not, and long may it continue.
I hope you all have a great Summer, and I will pick it all up again in October.
COME ON THE NICHE.
#200
April 10th, 2011 21:39
Excellent run very well done and a nice profit (thanks niche) put your hooves up till next year! Glad he’s hoem in one peice more importantly.
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