Affordale Fury Triumphs in Savills Chase, Eyes Cheltenham Gold Cup

Affordale Fury, trained by Noel Meade, achieved a significant milestone by winning the Grade One Savills Chase at Leopardstown, marking his first major victory after a series of injuries. The seven-year-old horse, who previously finished as a 150-1 runner-up in the Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham in March 2023, demonstrated resilience and strength during the race. Despite a history of injuries that included breaks of 438 and 241 days, Affordale Fury showcased his potential by leading the race and ultimately defeating notable competitors, including the dual Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs and the 2024 Grand National winner I Am Maximus.

Irish Daily Mirror

During the Savills Chase, Affordale Fury maintained a strong position throughout the race, briefly losing the lead to Galopin Des Champs before regaining it at the last jump. He finished two-and-a-half lengths ahead of I Am Maximus, with Galopin Des Champs trailing by three-quarters of a length. This victory has significantly altered the betting landscape for the upcoming Cheltenham Gold Cup, with Affordale Fury's odds shortening from 50-1 to 10-1.

Irish Daily MirrorAffordale Fury 10/1 to win Cheltenham Gold Cup after Savills Chase victoryAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at LeopardstownThe GuardianAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title

Noel Meade expressed his excitement about Affordale Fury's performance, stating, “It’s fabulous... When this fella was second in the Albert Bartlett, we were really looking forward to him as a chaser.” He acknowledged the challenges faced by the horse, including a missed season due to injury, but noted that recent training sessions indicated a return to form. Meade's optimism is reflected in the horse's improved odds for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, where he is now considered a serious contender.

Affordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at Leopardstown

The outcome of the Savills Chase has opened up the betting market for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, with several horses, including Inothewayurthinkin and Galopin Des Champs, also in contention. Inothewayurthinkin, the 2025 Gold Cup winner, finished last in the Savills Chase, while Galopin Des Champs, who was the favorite, could not secure a victory. The competitive nature of the upcoming Gold Cup is underscored by the shifting odds, with multiple horses now vying for the top position.

Affordale Fury 10/1 to win Cheltenham Gold Cup after Savills Chase victoryIrish Daily MirrorThe GuardianAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at LeopardstownAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title

Despite the excitement surrounding Affordale Fury's victory, some critics have pointed out the unpredictability of the current racing season, particularly regarding the performance of established favorites like Galopin Des Champs and Inothewayurthinkin. Their recent performances have raised questions about their readiness for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, suggesting that the competition may be more open than previously anticipated.

Affordale Fury 10/1 to win Cheltenham Gold Cup after Savills Chase victoryIrish Daily MirrorThe GuardianAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at LeopardstownAffordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title

• “When this fella was second in the Albert Bartlett, we were really looking forward to him as a chaser,” — Noel Meade, Trainer

The Guardian

• “He worked the other day and worked the sight out of your eyes, he was unbelievable.” — Noel Meade, Trainer

Affordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at Leopardstown

• “' and I said whatever happened today was him because he cannot be any better than he is.” — Noel Meade, Trainer

Affordale Fury brushes aside big names to secure Savills Chase title at Leopardstown

Affordale Fury's victory in the Savills Chase not only marks a personal triumph for the horse and his connections but also sets the stage for an intriguing Cheltenham Gold Cup, with multiple contenders now in the mix.

Irish Daily Mirror