CAPTAIN IVAN

Brown horse standing in a stable with white brick walls and dark paneling.

🐎 Horse Profile: Captain Ivan (IRE)

Foaled: 13 June 2014
Sex: Gelding
Colour: Chestnut
Sire: Stowaway (IRE)
Dam: Western Starlight (IRE)
Breeder: (Not publicly listed)

Owner: Racing On Together Club
Trainer: Ewan Whillans

🏇 Racing Overview

Captain Ivan is a veteran National Hunt chaser with a long and consistent career. Now over ten years old, he has competed chiefly in handicap chases over staying trips, typically between approximately 2 miles and 2 miles 6 furlongs. A robust competitor, he has proven his ability to race competitively in Class 3 and Class 4 chases, picking up several wins and a number of placed efforts along the way.

In recent seasons he has continued to show his staying qualities and toughness, especially in good ground conditions, making him a reliable performer in testing handicap company as he carries experience and resilience into every race.

🧬 Pedigree Notes

By Stowaway, a sire whose progeny often excel over jumps and staying distances, Captain Ivan’s pedigree is well suited to National Hunt racing. His dam, Western Starlight, contributes further depth of stamina and toughness, making him physically well‑suited to the demands of longer chase races.

This breeding underpins his career as a staying chaser capable of handling the rigours of extended trips and varied conditions.

🏠 In Training

Under the care of Ewan Whillans, Captain Ivan has continued to be campaigned positively in staying handicap chases, where his experience gives him an advantage in strategic races. Whillans has consistently placed him in contests that suit his stamina and jumping ability, aiming to maximise his competitive edge even as a veteran.

His recent performances show that, despite strong competition from younger rivals, Captain Ivan remains a tough and willing racehorse capable of solid efforts.

🔎 Key Attributes

  • Preferred trip: ~2m to 2m6f

  • Ground preference: Good and good‑to‑soft conditions

  • Racing style: Stayer with a tenacious finishing effort

  • Profile: Experienced handicap chaser with a long record of competitive form

Horse race finish with jockey on horse number 2 in blue and yellow checkered silks, crossing the finish line first, surrounded by spectators taking photos.