Seasoned Chasers Take Centre Stage in the Unibet Middle Distance Veterans’ Chase Series – Daily Business

The Unibet Middle Distance Veterans’ Chase Series has returned for its second full season, bringing renewed focus to an often-overlooked segment of National Hunt racing: experienced chasers aged ten and above. Far from slowing down, these seasoned campaigners are proving their continued worth in a series that prioritizes stamina, consistency, and competitive spirit. 

The 2024/25 series has already delivered a compelling narrative of comeback performances and surprise results, and it all builds toward a high-stakes finale at Haydock Park on 19 April, where £100,000 in prize money will be on the line. The final will be broadcast live on ITV, adding national attention to what has quickly become a meaningful fixture in the jump racing  Calendar. 

A Targeted Platform for Older Horses 

Designed to provide viable racing opportunities for older horses who may struggle against younger rivals, the Veterans’ Chase Series is restricted to chasers aged ten or older. Each race is held over 2½ miles – a distance that offers a balanced challenge in terms of both speed and endurance. 

The format includes eight qualifying races held at recognized UK racecourses. To be eligible for the final, horses must finish in the top eight of any qualifier. While winning helps build momentum, a place finish is sufficient to secure a ticket to Haydock. This structure has created an inclusive and competitive environment that rewards reliability and resilience over sheer raw ability. 

The series reminds us that horses with experience still have plenty to offer both connections and racegoers, particularly when given opportunities tailored to their strengths. 

Standout Performances in the 2024/25 Season 

This season began with a strong showing from Numitor, who claimed victory in the opening race at Wincanton on 27 October 2024. A few weeks later at Carlisle, Flic Ou Voyou made the most of a well-backed position to land the second leg as the favourite. 

Numitor returned to the spotlight with a second win at Cheltenham on 13 December, underlining his consistency and growing dominance in the series. Unfortunately, the fourth race, scheduled for 4 January at Wincanton, was abandoned due to adverse weather conditions, but the action resumed later that month. 

On 17 January, The Flier Begley produced a notable performance to win at Market Rasen. February delivered two more key races: Le Milos secured a convincing win at Warwick, while Dubai Days caused a stir with an unexpected 16/1 success at Haydock. Most recently, The Widdow Maker added his name to the list of finalists with a win at Exeter on 18 March.  

As the series has progressed, each race has added to the richness of the competition, with several horses emerging as serious contenders for the Haydock showdown. 

Numitor: Setting the Benchmark 

Numitor, trained by Heather Main and ridden by Sean Bowen, is among the most impressive runners this season. Already a proven performer, Numitor won the inaugural final in March 2024 and has since demonstrated that he remains in top form. 

Two wins from two starts this season have positioned him as the horse to beat going into the final. He has shown versatility in handling different ground conditions and courses, underlining the value of experience in races of this nature. Unsurprisingly, many will be closely monitoring horse race odds ahead of the Haydock event, with Numitor expected to start among the favourites. 

The Haydock Final: More Than Just a Race 

Haydock Park, with its well-regarded jumps track and dedicated fanbase, provides a fitting venue for the final. Taking place during the Easter Family Fun Day, the race is expected to draw a large crowd, further enhancing its visibility and prestige. 

While the financial reward of £100,000 is significant, the true value of the final lies in its recognition of enduring excellence. For many of the runners, this is more than just a race — it’s a chance to showcase ability that has stood the test of time, and to do so on one of the biggest stages of the season. 

Returning winners, in-form qualifiers, and perhaps a surprise challenger or two will line up for  

what is shaping up to be a compelling and competitive conclusion to the series. 

Looking Ahead 

As the countdown to 19 April continues, attention will turn to the confirmed entries and market movements. Will Numitor defend his title successfully? Could an underdog like Dubai Days pull off another upset? Or will a fresh name rise to the occasion? 

Whatever the outcome, the Veterans’ Chase Series has already demonstrated its value as a unique and rewarding platform within British jump racing. It gives credit where credit is due — to horses who continue to compete with tenacity and professionalism long after many of their peers have moved on.