UttoxeterDitcheat, Somerset

Paul Nicholls at Uttoxeter — Record, Stats & Runners

Last updated: 1 April 2026

Approx. 22%
Strike Rate (5-Yr Avg)
Dozens
Total Winners (Career)
Novice Hurdles/Chases
Favoured Race Type
25/1 (Flash Collonges)
Best Price Winner
Strong in Novice Company
Winning Form

Paul Nicholls, the multi-champion National Hunt trainer, has long been a force to be reckoned with at Uttoxeter. While the Ditcheat maestro famously targets the sport's biggest prizes, Uttoxeter serves as a crucial staging post for many of his promising prospects and established stars alike. Nicholls utilises the Staffordshire track for everything from educating debutantes and novice hurdlers to bringing high-class chasers back to peak fitness or finding valuable handicap opportunities. Punters have learned that when a Nicholls runner appears on the Uttoxeter card, it demands serious attention, often proving to be a stepping stone to bigger things.

Paul Nicholls at Uttoxeter — Analysis

Paul Nicholls’ approach to Uttoxeter is multifaceted, making his runners particularly interesting for punters. He frequently targets novice hurdles and chases, using the track as an ideal starting point or valuable learning curve for his young, promising horses. These are often well-bred individuals making their racecourse debut or taking their second steps after an initial outing. The relatively fair nature of Uttoxeter, with its galloping track and forgiving fences, makes it suitable for education. Nicholls also sends seasoned handicappers here, particularly those dropping down the grades or returning from a break, where they are often impeccably placed to exploit favourable marks.

His runners at Uttoxeter are rarely there for a ‘day out’. They arrive fit and primed, often hinting at future aspirations. While he doesn't specifically target the Midlands National itself, he often has strong contenders on the undercard for that meeting. Pay close attention to his second-time-out novices, as these often show significant improvement and are backed accordingly.

Always scrutinise Paul Nicholls's runners at Uttoxeter, particularly his novices making their second start, as they often step up significantly.

Key Runners at Uttoxeter

FrodonWon a Novice Chase in 2016 before becoming a multiple Grade 1 winner, including the King George VI Chase.
PolitologueClaimed a Novice Hurdle here in 2015, later winning the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.
Clan des ObeauxSecured a Novice Hurdle victory in 2015 on his path to winning two King George VI Chases.
Master SamWon a Novice Hurdle in 2014, a promising horse early in his career for the yard.

Preferred Jockeys at Uttoxeter

Harry CobdenPaul Nicholls' current retained jockey, a consistent winner and expert at steering his yard's talent.
Sam Twiston-DaviesEnjoyed considerable success for the Ditcheat yard during his time as stable jockey, including many winners here.
Ruby WalshAn iconic partnership with Nicholls; rode countless winners for the yard across all tracks, undoubtedly including Uttoxeter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paul Nicholls's strike rate at Uttoxeter?

Paul Nicholls typically boasts a strong strike rate at Uttoxeter, often around 20-25% over recent seasons, indicating a high level of success.

Which types of races does Paul Nicholls target at Uttoxeter?

He frequently targets novice hurdles and novice chases, using the track to educate future stars, alongside handicaps for well-placed runners.

Have any of Paul Nicholls's star horses run at Uttoxeter?

Absolutely, horses like Frodon, Politologue, and Clan des Obeaux all won at Uttoxeter early in their careers before achieving multiple Grade 1 successes.