The Maryland Hunt Cup Stakes, one of the most prestigious and challenging timber races in the world, is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Glyndon, Maryland. This historic race, now in its 128th running, spans a grueling 4 miles and features 22 solid timber fences, some nearly 5 feet high. With a $100,000 purse, the stakes are high for the nine horses entered in this year’s event.
Horses, Jockeys, Trainers, and Pedigrees:
- Queens Empire (IRE)
- Pedigree: Sired by Empire Maker, out of Crown Queen (by Smart Strike).
- Trainer: Jack Fisher
- Jockey: Virginia Korrell
- Analysis: An 8-year-old gelding, Queens Empire is a consistent performer with a strong pedigree emphasizing stamina and class. Trained by the renowned Jack Fisher, this horse is expected to be a top contender.
- Blackhall (IRE)
- Pedigree: Sired by Caspar Netscher (GB), out of Win Cash (IRE) (by Montjeu).
- Trainer: Joseph G. Davies
- Jockey: Charlie Marshall
- Analysis: An 11-year-old gelding, Blackhall has extensive experience in timber races. His pedigree highlights endurance, and his connections are well-versed in preparing horses for this demanding event.
- Rocket Star Red
- Pedigree: Sired by Eskendereya, out of Sanibel Star (by Unbridled’s Song).
- Trainer: Mark Beecher
- Jockey: Brett Owings
- Analysis: At 13 years old, Rocket Star Red is the oldest horse in the field. His experience and resilience make him a sentimental favorite, though he may face challenges against younger competitors.
- Monbeg Stream (IRE)
- Pedigree: Sired by Libertarian (GB), out of No Ordinary Love (IRE) (by Presenting).
- Trainer: Leslie F. Young
- Jockey: Jordan Canavan
- Analysis: A 9-year-old gelding, Monbeg Stream has a strong European pedigree emphasizing jumping ability and stamina. He is a serious contender under the guidance of Leslie F. Young.
- Goodoldtimes (IRE)
- Pedigree: Sired by Gold Well (GB), out of Ballinlovaneeile (IRE) (by Saddlers’ Hall).
- Trainer: Mark Beecher
- Jockey: Dan Nevin
- Analysis: An 11-year-old gelding, Goodoldtimes has a proven track record in timber races. His experience and jumping ability make him a strong contender.
- Withoutmoreado (IRE)
- Pedigree: Sired by Shantou, out of Statim (GB) (by Sadler’s Wells).
- Trainer: Katherine S. Neilson
- Jockey: Freddie Procter
- Analysis: Another 11-year-old gelding, Withoutmoreado has a pedigree rich in stamina and class. His connections are experienced in preparing horses for long-distance timber races.
- Great Road
- Pedigree: Sired by Three Chopt Road, out of Goodness Greatness (by Great Notion).
- Trainer: Joseph G. Davies
- Jockey: Teddy Davies
- Analysis: A 10-year-old gelding, Great Road is a consistent performer with a strong local following. His familiarity with the course could be an advantage.
- Mr. Fine Threads
- Pedigree: Sired by Sightseeing, out of Seven Counties (by Broad Brush).
- Trainer: Joseph G. Davies
- Jockey: Will Biddick
- Analysis: A 12-year-old gelding, Mr. Fine Threads is a seasoned campaigner with a solid pedigree emphasizing stamina and durability.
- Road to Oz
- Pedigree: Sired by Quality Road, out of Miz Magician (by Mizzen Mast).
- Trainer: Mark Beecher
- Jockey: Conor Tierney
- Analysis: A 10-year-old gelding, Road to Oz has shown promise in timber races. His pedigree suggests a balance of speed and stamina, making him a dark horse in this field.
Race Analysis:
The Maryland Hunt Cup Stakes is a true test of stamina, jumping ability, and strategy. With its solid timber fences and long distance, the race demands precision from both horse and rider. Queens Empire’s pedigree and Jack Fisher’s training expertise make him the horse to beat, but Blackhall’s experience and Monbeg Stream’s European background add intrigue. Goodoldtimes and Withoutmoreado bring consistency and class, while Rocket Star Red and Mr. Fine Threads add depth to the field with their resilience.
