Chief Black Robe

The partnership with amateur rider Mr Tom Broughton is where Chief Black Robe really comes alive. Together they have won 4 times from 13 races — that is nearly 1 in 3, a remarkable figure that tells you these two have a genuine understanding. Both of his first career wins arrived in that combination, suggesting Broughton knows exactly how to get the best from him.

Newton Abbot is his happy hunting ground. Two wins from six races there puts his course win rate at 1 in 3, and in racing, track specialists are real — certain horses simply take to a particular layout, gradient, or bend radius in a way that gives them a consistent edge. When Chief Black Robe turns up at Newton Abbot, he is worth watching closely.

The honest caveat is that he has not won in six races, and his last victory came at Worcester back in July 2023 — over three years ago now. His recent form reads a couple of placings amid some quiet efforts, so the sharp version of him has been elusive of late. Still, he raced just one day ago, which means he is fit, active, and still being asked the question.

He is trained by Fergal O'Brien, a Gloucestershire yard that has sent out 90 winners this season alone — a genuinely productive operation that does not run horses for fun. The fact that O'Brien keeps Chief Black Robe in work at ten years old says something: there is still belief that the right race, the right ground, and possibly a return to Newton Abbot could unlock another win. He may be waiting for his moment.