A winning approach

Tue 14 Apr 2026

Winner 47 of 2026: GAELIC APPROACH, trained by Charlie Johnston and ridden by Callum Shepherd. The ‘Leicester Races Saturday 25th April Book Now Handicap’ over 1m4f at Leicester.

 After a fast-finishing 2nd place on his penultimate start over 1m4f, we knew that Gaelic Approach had matured well over the winter months and, given his sire and siblings, he would always improve with age and trip.

He broke well from the starting stalls under Callum Shepherd and settled nicely into second place. It was an even pace for most of the way, with Gaelic Approach, still travelling strongly in the hands of Callum, starting to make his challenge 3 furlongs from home. He quickly disputed the lead and kept on well in the closing stages, galloping on resolutely, and crossing the line 1 3/4 lengths ahead of the second-placed horse.

Huge well done to his owners, he could be an exciting stayer going forward. He is yet another graduate from our 2026 April Fool promotion.

Follow the link to the full race replay: https://www.racingtv.com/results/2026-04-13/leicester/1652

Timeform rated his victory with a 82+: "Improved further to get off the mark back on turf, not appearing to be going as well as the favourite 2f out but finding plenty for pressure and he should have more to come at this trip; close up, pushed along 3f out, led over 2f out, kept going well; open to further improvement and sure to be of interest again."

Syndicate Manager Mike Prince after the race: "It all went pretty smoothly and although the 2nd place horse looked to be travelling well around 3 out, Gaelic Approach showed a very good attitude in the final couple of furlongs for what was ultimately a comfortable win."

For official photos, please contact [email protected] and he will send you proofs for you to choose from.