The Ben Pauling is gathering momentum ahead of the Cheltenham Festival, with promising novice chaser Mambonumberfive set to face a significant test in the Grade 2 Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Warwick this weekend.
The Naunton handler arrives off the back of another productive Saturday after Pic Roc landed the Masters Handicap Chase at Sandown, further highlighting the yard’s excellent current form. Attention now turns to whether Mambonumberfive can strengthen his Festival claims with a strong showing in what is widely viewed as an important Arkle trial.
Connections briefly considered stepping the unbeaten chaser up in class for the Grade 1 Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase, particularly after stablemate Diva Luna was ruled out with a minor setback. However, Pauling ultimately opted to remain with the original plan rather than experiment with both trip and timing so close to March.
The six-year-old is currently quoted at around 16-1 for the Arkle, and the intention is to keep him over the minimum distance for the remainder of the campaign.
Pauling has suggested the gelding’s toughness could also bring Aintree into the conversation later in the spring, describing him as the type of horse who thrives on racing.
There was also encouraging news regarding Diva Luna, who is reported to be progressing well after suffering a knocked joint that forced her withdrawal from Sandown.
The mare is expected to head straight to the Mares’ Chase at Cheltenham without another prep run, assuming routine checks confirm everything is in order.
For Pauling, ensuring her wellbeing has been the priority after missing what appeared to be a suitable opportunity last time out.
This is shaping up to be the most lucrative season of Pauling’s training career to date, and recent performances suggest he could arrive at Cheltenham with one of his strongest squads yet.
Pic Roc, despite not being the slickest jumper when meeting a fence awkwardly, has earned consideration for the National Hunt Chase. His stamina at Sandown hinted that extended trips may unlock further improvement.
Heading the team is The Jukebox Man, whose profile continues to rise following an impressive sequence of victories that includes top-level success earlier in the season.
Currently priced around 8-1 for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the gelding appears firmly on course for the blue riband event, with connections resisting the temptation of another prep run in favour of arriving fresh.
The approach reflects growing confidence within the yard that the horse is exactly where he needs to be at this stage of the campaign.
Elsewhere, stablemate Handstands is being aimed towards the Randox Grand National, although the route remains flexible. Maintaining a workable handicap mark is understood to be part of the strategy before final decisions are made.
A possible Cheltenham outing has not been ruled out, but the longer-term objective is clear.
With the Festival fast approaching, Pauling’s squad is beginning to take definitive shape — and this weekend’s Kingmaker could provide an important indicator of where Mambonumberfive fits among the leading novice chasers.
A convincing performance would do more than enhance his reputation; it could firmly place him in the Arkle conversation at precisely the right time.
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