Alexei Joins an Exclusive Kingwell Club — But Is He Good Enough for the Champion Hurdle?

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Three Kingwell Hurdle winners have gone on to take the Champion Hurdle this century. Golden Ace did it just last year. Katchit managed it in 2008. Hors La Loi III in 2002. So when Alexei ground out a length-and-a-quarter victory over Rubaud in Saturday’s Grade 2 at Wincanton, it was natural to wonder whether he could be the fourth.

The honest answer? Probably not. But there’s enough in his profile to make things interesting.

Wilful's Champion Hurdle Bid Faces Kingwell Test: Is 142 Enough?

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:05:00 +0000

Jonjo and AJ O’Neill will learn exactly where they stand with Champion Hurdle hopeful Wilful this Saturday, when the progressive hurdler steps into Grade 2 company for the BetMGM Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton.

The six-year-old has been a model of consistency this season, reaching the frame in all four starts and climbing from a handicap mark of 121 to his current rating of 142. That Windsor second last month — carrying top weight in a competitive Class 2 handicap — convinced connections the gelding had earned his shot at better company.

Kingwell-Hurdle on The Race Lab

Alexei Joins an Exclusive Kingwell Club — But Is He Good Enough for the Champion Hurdle?

Wilful's Champion Hurdle Bid Faces Kingwell Test: Is 142 Enough?