Stede Bonnet

His career has been a steady climb rather than a dramatic rise. He broke through for his first win at Clonmel in June 2025, and six months ago, in January this year, he won at Ayr. His recent form shows promise: across his last six races, he has finished first or second three times, including two wins. He placed third and second in his two most recent outings, suggesting he remains competitive even when conditions don't suit him perfectly.

Gordon Elliott's Longwood yard in County Meath has him well placed — the stable has sent out 210 winners this season, indicating a well-resourced operation. Elliott and his team have been candid about Stede Bonnet's journey: the horse showed promise early in bumpers, winning at both Clonmel and Bellewstown, but his hurdles debut at Galway disappointed. The yard recognized he had run below his best that day. What has become clear since is that giving him the right ground — soft, muddy conditions — and positive riding unlocks his best form. His most recent win came with Danny Gilligan in the saddle, riding aggressively and using Stede Bonnet's stamina as a weapon, which proved effective. At five years old and still learning, he has room to develop, but on a wet day when he gets a confident ride, he looks every bit a genuine winning prospect.