Intense Approach

The Cheltenham win was particularly telling. Trainer John McConnell, based in Stamullen, County Meath, noted afterwards that jumping had been a concern — but you would never have known it. Jockey Harry Cobden gave him a small prompt mid-race, and he responded immediately, picking up smartly to win. That kind of jumping intelligence, once it clicks, tends to stick. McConnell was already thinking ahead: a horse who wins at Cheltenham in October and handles three miles is one worth aiming at the big spring targets. The trainer had done exactly this before with another horse, reaching the Albert Bartlett — one of the most prestigious staying races at the Cheltenham Festival.

That Festival trip did come, but it did not go to plan. McConnell later confirmed the horse had returned sick from the trip, along with several others from the yard. He was rushed back to Perth and ran below himself. Rather than paper over it, the team chose patience — they gave Intense Approach time, reset the target, and aimed him at Galway in August 2025, which he won. That is smart training. A yard that has sent out 42 winners this season clearly knows when to push and when to wait.

The partnership with amateur rider Mr A Harvey is worth noting. In 10 races together they have won 5, a win rate of exactly 50% — half of all their starts together have ended in the winner's enclosure. That kind of chemistry between horse and rider is rare and tends to be no accident.

The one question mark is at the very top level. In three races at Class 1, Intense Approach has yet to win. He has the form, the trainer, and the partnership to suggest that could change — but he will need fast or normal ground to show his best, and the team will not risk him in heavy conditions.