Assessing the favourites for the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase

The Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase is one of the standout Grade 1 events of the Cheltenham Festival, showcasing the finest up-and-coming staying chasers from both sides of the Irish Sea. 

Traditionally run over about three miles on the demanding Old Course, it provides a true test of stamina and jumping ability, often acting as a stepping stone to further wins in open company. 

As anticipation builds ahead of this year’s renewal, several promising contenders have emerged in the Cheltenham tips 2025, each boasting the credentials to make their mark on the stage in March. 

Here, we examine the leading favourites in greater detail, analysing their form, strengths, and chances of claiming victory in what promises to be a thrilling renewal. 

Ballyburn – 7/2

Many people wonder whether Ballyburn can light up Prestbury Park again this year as he did 12 months ago. 

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding put on a show when landing the Baring Bingham Novices’ Hurdle by 13 lengths, but the question is whether he can do it again over fences.

Ballyburn romped home on his chasing debut at Punchestown in November, but was well-held by Sir Gino in the Wayward Lad at Kempton Park over Christmas. 

Indeed, he needs further than the two miles on offer that day. So, there’s every chance he’ll appreciate this step up to over three miles. 

The Jukebox Man – 5/1

Britain’s leading hope in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase, The Jukebox Man, has appreciated the switch to fences this season. 

A consistent performer over timber, including finishing runner-up in Grade 1s at both Cheltenham and Aintree, he’s yet to be header over the larger obstacles in two starts. 

Owned by Harry Redknapp, The Jukebox Man won a Grade 2 at Newbury on reappearance and followed up in the Grade 1 Kauto Star on Boxing Day—proving himself over this trip.

Dancing City – 7/1

Another decent hurdler last season, Dancing City won four of his six starts in the sphere—including three Grade 1s and holding off The Jukebox Man by over five lengths at Aintree. 

The seven-year-old, also trained by Mullins, has only been seen once since switching to fences this campaign. 

It was a winning start when beating Shannon Royale in a Beginners’ Chase, and while many might have wanted to see more, jockey Paul Townend considered it a great start. 

Impaire Et Passe – 12/1

Closutton’s strength and depth are second to none, and Mullins has another solid chance in the Brown Advisory with Impaire Et Passe. 

A five-time Graded winner over the smaller obstacles, the seven-year-old is unbeaten in two starts in this sphere—including scoring at the top level when last seen at Limerick. 

Impaire Et Passe will face his stablemates Ballyburn and Dancing City at the upcoming Dublin Racing Festival, and all three will be hoping to boost their credentials at Leopardstown. 

Lecky Watson, Ile Atlantique, and Champ Kiely could also represent Mullins at 16/1, Better Days Ahead and Croke Park are options for Gordon Elliott at the same odds.