Training – Ryan’s Rocket – Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate

Ryan's Rocket

Trained by Fergal O’Brien

FORM P/1/021-14120U-1U01 OR 139

"He is a lovely horse who had a good first season over fences. Ideally I'd like to see him settle better as I genuinely think he's a three mile chaser even though he's won at Chepstow over two miles. Ryan's Rocket is an exciting chaser. Off 129 there should be a good spread of races to aim at." Fergal O’Brien - Trainer

He had a good first season over fences but we’ve not seen the best of him yet. Ryan’s Rocket had the ideal start winning on debut at Chepstow before running well (2nd) at Ascot but it was his third run that catches the eye.

At Cheltenham in January he finished 6th in a typically competitive Timeform Novice Chase but ran better than the bare result. He looked to be going best turning for home but having been keen over the first mile he didn’t stay the extended 2m4f. However the form is red hot. Finishing just in front were Jaqwar, Masaccio and Resplendent Grey who subsequently won at the Cheltenham Festival, Ayr Scottish National meeting and the Sandown £100k Bet365 Gold Cup respectively.

That form was carried into his seasonal debut when winning over 2m at Newbury under Johnny Burke. The race was run to suit with three horses blazing away, Ryan was positioned beautifully just behind and then Johnny made his challenge at the last.

We then targeted the ‘Desert Orchid’ at Kempton (27/12) which is worth £100k. Everything looked good until Ryan rubbed a fence and then stumbled at the 8th which saw Johnny unseated.

It was quickly decided to keep Ryan fresh for a tilt at the Grand Annual but he missed the cut by two. His mark would normally have seen him get a run but 2026 was different – the lowest mark in many handicaps was a higher threshold than ever before. Plan B was to reroute to Kempton a few days later but Ryan didn’t turn up. he was keen early, made a couple of mistakes at halfway and despite battling back into a reasonable position turning for home didn’t stay the 2m4f.

Next stop was Aintree for the prestigious “Red Rum Handicap Chase” worth £56k. On a flat fast track favouring front runners Johnny Burke’s plan was to sit behind the leaders and pounce two out. That is exactly what he did allowing Ryan’s Rocket to win at a major festival much to the delight of his owners. What a great day in the sun for horse, jockey, stable and trainer.

About the Trainer

Fergal O'Brien

Fergal O’Brien has built a reputation as one of the most consistent trainers in National Hunt racing. Based in Gloucestershire, O’Brien runs a successful yard alongside partner Sally Randell. Known for his enthusiasm and hands-on approach, O’Brien’s stable has grown significantly in recent years, producing a steady stream of winners across the UK and Ireland. His attention to detail and ability to bring horses to peak performance for key races have earned him respect within the racing community. O’Brien excels in training horses for a variety of races, from novice hurdles to competitive chases, and has a growing presence at major festivals like Cheltenham. His affable personality and strong team ethos contribute to a positive atmosphere at his yard, attracting high-quality owners and horses.

Ryan's Rocket

About the Trainer

Fergal O'Brien

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