Hillcrest graduate hurdler set to make long-awaited race debut after two-and-a-half years off the track

Graduated hurdler Hillcrest ready to make his long-awaited debut in the chase, returning on Friday after a two-and-a-half year absence from Exeter.

The imposing nine-year-old prepares to take his turn after a 966-day break in the three-metre novice pursuit (1.50), in which he could be joined by smart prospects Shanah Bob and Captain Teague in a bid for his first success over fences since his successful hurdles career.

After being pulled up for the Albert Bartlett in 2022, in which he was the favorite under Richard Patrick, Hillcrest was ruled out for the next two seasons to allow time to recover from an injured leg because of his size, and coach Henry Daly is keen to see him the smart runner finally took to the fences this winter.