There was an incredible moment for a Welsh jockey Down Under at the weekend as the jumps boys continued a brilliant season. The Racing Post’s James Stevens reports.

James Stevens, from The Racing Post, reflects on a brilliant week for Wales at the Cheltenham Festival.

The opening day of the Cheltenham Festival provided thrills and excitement as Golden Ace took the Champion Hurdle trophy for Welsh jockey Lorcan Williams in dramatic fashion.

The Cheltenham Festival is here and Wales' leading jockeys and trainers will descend on the Cotswolds bidding for glory at jump racing's biggest four days.

Leading Welsh trainer Sam Thomas was proud of his two horses’ efforts at the Coral Welsh Grand National even though Val Dancer emerged from the murk to seize victory. Val Dancer tenaciously held off Thomas’ dual challenge of Jubilee Express and Iwilldoit at Chepstow to win a race that was only visible at certain stages due to thick fog.

Welsh trainer Sam Thomas is hopeful Jubilee Express can prove “a special horse” by winning the Coral Welsh Grand National for him – just as Iwilldoit did three years ago. Thomas sends both horses to the start line at Chepstow on Friday with Jubilee Express most fancied to provide a home winner in Wales’ leading race in the calendar, which carries £150,000 of prize money.