Champion jumps trainer Paul Nicholls has admitted that defending his title this season could be difficult due to a lack of top-level performers in his stable. Nicholls secured his 10th championship in April after a tense battle with Irish rival Willie Mullins that went down to the final day at Sandown.
Despite winning the title, Nicholls achieved only two Grade One victories last season, his lowest tally since the 2001-2 campaign. With a team of 128 horses, two more than last year, he believes securing wins at the highest level will remain challenging. 'We have loads of young horses. It won’t be any easier than last season. It will be even harder,' he said.
Nicholls highlighted the absence of former stars like Big Buck's, Denman, Kauto Star and Master Minded, which made previous title wins easier. Among his current older horses is dual King George VI Chase winner Silviniaco Conti, aged 10, who has recovered from health issues including a fibrillating heart. He is set to target the JNWine Champion Chase at Down Royal in November.
Other notable horses include Dodging Bullets, the 2015 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner, who will be campaigned over longer distances, and novice chasers Old Guard, Aux Ptits Soins and Ibis Du Rheu. Scottish National winner Vicente has the Grand National at Aintree on his agenda.
