The horse racing scene heats up on Sunday, March 3, 2024, as the Fleur De Lys Chase takes center stage at Windsor. Defending champion Protektorat, a seasoned eleven-year-old, will strive for a consecutive victory under jockey Harry Skelton. Last year, Protektorat delivered a remarkable performance, winning by an impressive 23 lengths against Djelo. The competition this year promises to be fierce, but the Skelton team remains optimistic about their star horse’s chances.
A quality field of six horses has assembled for this prestigious race. Among the challengers is Handstands, trained by Ben Pauling. Although he carries a considerable weight disadvantage, his past performance, including a victory in the Grade One Scilly Isles at Sandown, establishes him as a serious contender. Handstands will need to bounce back from a disappointing showing in the Betfair Chase to challenge Protektorat effectively.
Another horse to watch is Matata, who recently returned to form by winning a handicap at Cheltenham. His improvement suggests he could pose a significant threat, especially over the longer distance of the Fleur De Lys Chase.
Exciting Matchups in Other Races
The day’s racing card also features the Grade Two Hampton Novices’ Chase, showcasing promising horses like Salver and Moon Rocket. Salver, trained by Gary and Josh Moore, caught attention with his jumping skills during a previous win in Grade Two company at Sandown. However, he struggled in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton and will be looking to regain his winning form. With the ground conditions more favorable and cheekpieces fitted, Salver is expected to perform better.
Moon Rocket made a successful debut over fences at Doncaster before facing defeat in a subsequent race. He may have more to give if presented with a genuine stamina test. Additionally, Wade Out is seeking another run to qualify for the National Hunt Chase at the Festival, while Doyen Quest and Jeriko Du Reponet are also expected to be competitive in this challenging matchup.
Competitive Handicap Hurdle and Other Highlights
The Weatherbys Racing Bank Handicap Hurdle at 2:25 PM features a strong lineup, including Lud’or and Nab Wood. Lud’or, under the guidance of Tom Symonds, has shown a preference for softer ground, winning convincingly at Bangor before finishing third at Newbury. Now carrying an additional three-pound burden, he remains a horse to watch for further improvement.
Nab Wood, trained by Nicky Richards, has steadily progressed and recently won at Catterick with ease, placing him firmly on the shortlist for this race. Other contenders, including Keable and Kapy Boy, may present value at longer odds.
Other noteworthy races include the 1:50 PM contest featuring Mirabad, who appears to have strong claims for the Dan Skelton team, and an open race at 3:35 PM with Jupiter Des Bordes among the 17 runners. The day will culminate with the exciting Bass Hunter headlining a valuable bumper field at 4:05 PM.
As the equestrian community looks forward to Sunday’s events at Windsor, the anticipation builds for what could be another thrilling chapter in the racing calendar.
