Dan Skelton’s Instinct Shines in JCB Melling Chase: Report, Reactions, Replay

Grey Dawning produced a determined finish to land the Grade 1 JCB Melling Chase at Aintree on Friday. The victory came after trainer Dan Skelton dropped the nine-year-old back in trip. Harry Skelton rode the winner over a persistent Solness.

Tactical switch pays off

Skelton opted for a change of plan after Cheltenham. Grey Dawning had finished fourth in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup four weeks earlier. The trainer said dropping him in trip was the right move and fitted cheekpieces as a precaution.

Earlier on day one Skelton had suffered near-misses with Protektorat and The New Lion. Those efforts underscored the value of a different approach for his stable star. After the race he celebrated with owner Robert Kirkland and his brother Harry.

The duel with Solness

Solness, trained by Joseph O’Brien, led for much of the contest. He rallied strongly in the closing stages and was beaten by about a neck. Jockey JJ Slevin praised the runner-up’s tenacity and fighting spirit.

Other runners and reactions

Ryanair Chase winner Heart Wood finished third. Joe Tizzard’s JPR One claimed fourth place. JPR One’s jockey Brendan Powell said the horse jumped well but tired from two out after a long campaign and a hard race at Cheltenham.

Gold Cup reflections and owner story

Skelton admitted the Gold Cup was his big seasonal target. He acknowledged Grey Dawning made uncharacteristic mistakes there and could not match Gaelic Warrior. Owner Robert Kirkland received praise after a difficult period following a recent family bereavement.

Season milestone

This success capped a record-breaking season for Skelton. He is set to claim the trainers’ title for the first time. Prize-money for his stable has exceeded £4,000,000 this season.

Filmogaz.com provides a full Report with Reactions and a Replay of the race. Dan Skelton’s instinct came to the fore in the JCB Melling Chase, delivering top-level glory.