Introduction to the NH Junior Hurdle Races

In 2021, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced the introduction of National Hunt (NH) Junior Hurdle Races, an important initiative to help the development of Jump horses in Great Britain. This followed discussions between the BHA and the TBA, and the approval of the industry's Racing Group.

Race Conditions 

All races will be Class 4 (£8,000-£9,000 TPF), Junior NH Hurdles with the following conditions: 

“For 3-y-o’s only which have not run in any race prior to 1st October 2022, have not run in a Flat race and have not run in more than three previous hurdle races” 

Points to remember: 

• A win in a Junior NH Hurdle race will not rule out a horse from running in regular novice races in the following season.  
• Horses are permitted to run in other Juvenile and Novices’ events during the same season, but please note - wins outside these Junior NH Hurdles will be treated as normal in terms of novice status.  That is to say, a horse winning in any hurdle race other than one of these events will not be a novice for the following season. 
• Any wins will result in loss of maiden status in all future hurdle races. 
• Runs in these races will be subject to assessment by the BHA handicapper and count towards qualification for handicap races. 
• Up to a further 12 races are planned for the period of January – April 2023. 

2023 Dates

2024 Dates