Harry Cobden's ascent in British National Hunt racing has been nothing short of spectacular.
At 25, the talented jockey is poised to clinch his maiden Jumps Jockeys' Championship, outpacing his rival and close friend, Sean Bowen.
With an illustrious career, largely under the mentorship of 14-time Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls, Cobden has notched an impressive tally of 158 victories from 686 rides this season alone at the time of writing, boasting a commendable 23% strike rate.
This season has been particularly memorable for Cobden, marked by remarkable triumphs aboard some of the finest horses in the sport. Let's delve into some of his standout victories from the campaign
Monmiral - Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle
Cobden clinched his fifth career victory at the Cheltenham Festival with a masterful ride on Monmiral in the Pertemps Network Final.
Despite being a 25/1 outsider in the online betting, Cobden guided the seven-year-old, partly owned by football legend Sir Alex Ferguson, to a resounding triumph, securing the former Manchester United manager's first Cheltenham Festival success.
Captain Teague - Challow Novices' Hurdle
Cobden notched his initial Grade 1 triumph of the season astride Captain Teague in the Challow Novices' Hurdle at Newbury.
Despite some challenges on the run-in, the five-year-old, backed as the 2/1 favourite, showcased Cobden's finesse as they held off their main rival Lookaway with authority.
Pic D'Orhy - Betfair Ascot Chase
Cobden's prowess was on full display in the Grade 1 Betfair Ascot Chase where he piloted Pic D'Orhy to victory.
Making all the running, the nine-year-old secured the prestigious £99,662 prize purse, adding another feather to Cobden's cap in the iconic Samantha de la Hey colours.
Stage Star - Gold Cup Handicap Chase
The Gold Cup Handicap Chase, not to be confused with the Gold Cup, takes place during the Cheltenham November Meeting and witnessed Cobden's resilience as he partnered Stage Star to victory.
Despite a daunting mistake at the last fence from the 2023 Turners Novices’ Chase winner, Cobden's skillful recovery ensured a remarkable win for the 4/1 favourite.
Blueking D'Oroux - Ascot Hurdle
Cobden steered Blueking D'Oroux to victory against his elders in the Ascot Hurdle, defying age barriers as the youngest contender in the field.
Despite being just four years old, making him the youngest horse in the race by some two years, the duo showcased exceptional talent, overcoming adversity and emerging victorious against more seasoned competitors.
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These victories underscore Cobden's versatility and mastery in the saddle, cementing his status as one of National Hunt racing's brightest stars.
Moreover, his triumphs aboard former Grand National winner Noble Yeats in the Cleeve Hurdle, Kalif Du Berlais in the Adonis Juvenile Hurdle, and Stay Away Fey in the Betfair Esher Novices' Chase — which are all Grade 2 contests — further accentuate his remarkable season.
As Cobden looks ahead to further glory, his performances this season stand as a testament to his skill, dedication, and undeniable talent, inspiring fans and fellow riders alike in the exhilarating world of National Hunt racing.
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