Haiti Couleurs, the highest-rated horse from Wales, clinched his first Grade 1 victory in a thrilling performance at the Remembering Envoi Allen Champion Chase held at Down Royal in Lisburn. The nine-year-old horse, trained by Rebecca Curtis, displayed impressive stamina, leading throughout the race and maintaining his strength in the final three furlongs to secure the win and a prize of 94,240 euros (£78,855).
In his season debut, Haiti Couleurs was ridden by Irish jockey Paul Townend. There had been questions about his capacity to succeed at the highest level following two previous Grade 1 attempts that ended with him being pulled up. This recent triumph may bolster his chances for a second bid at the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Townend shared insights on the race with RacingTV, remarking, “Haiti looked to be at his best when he was fresh, and I just thought it was a chance that might work out.” He praised Curtis’s reputation for targeting high-profile races, adding, “Rebecca, when she sets her sights on a prize like that, usually isn’t too far away.” Townend expressed confidence in Haiti Couleurs’s performance, stating, “I don’t think I’ve ever sent a horse for home from so far out here in my life and stayed going. He’s honest, he’s genuine, and he’s a galloper.”
The victory marks a pivotal moment in Haiti Couleurs’s career as he aims for continued success in future races.
