Could Mickey Bowen be on the brink of a breakthrough winter season? The trainer, often associated with summer jumps racing, is poised to challenge that stereotype with his rising star, Art Of Diplomacy, in the upcoming Badger Beers Handicap Chase. But here's where it gets intriguing: can this remarkable improver, who has already notched five wins this season, truly signal a shift in Bowen's fortunes as the temperatures drop?
Bowen’s early-season form has been nothing short of impressive, boasting a 23% strike rate with 43 winners from 184 runners. Art Of Diplomacy, a standout performer, has been central to this success. And this is the part most people miss: despite a recent fall at Chepstow, the horse’s potential remains untapped, with Bowen confidently stating, 'He's ahead of the handicapper and 137 looks a nice mark.' If his jumping holds up, Art Of Diplomacy could be a force to reckon with, especially if the race pace favors his late-charging style. 'We're very happy,' Bowen added, hinting at the optimism surrounding this campaign.
But Bowen isn’t just relying on Art Of Diplomacy. He’s building a winter-ready string, inspired by his father Peter’s legacy of major winter victories. 'We love summer racing, but we’d also love to have bigger chances in the winter,' Bowen admitted. With new additions like Black Eddy, Nimba, Off The Jury, and Queensbury Boy, Bowen is strategically positioning himself for success. Controversially, some might argue that Bowen’s shift to winter racing is a gamble, but is it really? Or is it simply a natural evolution of his training prowess?
The Badger Beers Handicap Chase isn’t just about Bowen, though. Other trainers are bringing their A-game. Paul Nicholls, for instance, believes his horse Threeunderthrufive is 'fresh and well,' while Keiran Burke is confident Soul Icon can handle the extended trip. Joe Tizzard is taking a calculated risk with Scarface, stepping him up in distance, and Anthony Honeyball is pinning his hopes on the experienced Gustavian and the hardy Credo. But here’s the burning question: in a field of seasoned contenders, who will emerge victorious, and will Bowen’s winter ambitions finally come to fruition?
As the racing world watches, one thing is clear: this winter could be a game-changer for Mickey Bowen. But what do you think? Is Bowen’s focus on winter racing a smart move, or is he spreading himself too thin? Let us know in the comments below!
