For most racing fans, this year’s Fighting Fifth Hurdle has been framed as a straight shootout between Constitution Hill and The New Lion. On paper, that narrative seems irresistible — two heavyweights, one Grade 1 prize, and a wave of expectation from fans who have waited months to see whether Constitution Hill can rediscover his former brilliance. But beneath the headline story sits a trio of runners whose presence adds layers of intrigue far richer than a supposed “two-horse race.”

Golden Ace, Nemean Lion, and Willie Mullins’ relatively unknown challenger Anzadam are entering Saturday’s contest with something far more valuable than hype: opportunity.

Golden Ace, the mare who stunned Cheltenham last March after Constitution Hill and State Man both crashed out, returns with something to prove. Trainer Jeremy Scott will never forget the day she swept past the chaos to lift the Unibet Champion Hurdle, and her subsequent runner-up finish behind State Man at Punchestown confirmed it wasn’t a fluke. Yet her seasonal reappearance at Wetherby left connections disappointed. Sent off as an overwhelming favourite against Kateira, she never travelled with authority and later scoped dirty.

Despite that setback, Golden Ace holds a unique advantage: she is the only horse in the lineup who has had a run this autumn. For supporters, that is a comforting factor, even though she will likely need more than good fortune to topple the giants ahead of her.

Then there is Nemean Lion — a horse who seems to relish flying under the radar. Supplemented for just over £2,400 earlier this week, he stands to earn more than the entry fee simply by finishing fifth. Kerry Lee knows the economics are in her favour, but this is more than a numbers game. Nemean Lion has secured Grade 2 wins at Fontwell and Wincanton, goes well fresh, and stays further than two miles, suggesting that Conor O’Farrell may opt to seize the lead early and force the pace. He cannot match the raw class of the favourites, but he can shape the race — and potentially punish any misstep from the big names.

While Golden Ace and Nemean Lion are familiar to British fans, Mullins’ Anzadam is the true wild card. A lightly raced five-year-old with a perfect record since joining the yard, he arrives without the weight of expectation that usually shadows a Mullins runner. Strong-finishing victories at Fairyhouse and Naas show promise, but questions remain: Is he seasoned enough? Is his hurdling polished enough? And why is the hood — a staple in his previous starts — suddenly being left off?

Yet Mullins thrives on turning uncertainty into opportunity, much like Aidan O’Brien does on the Flat. Throwing an untested prospect into a British trial often reveals more than a safe run at home ever could.

As for the headliners — Constitution Hill and The New Lion — the story is well known. Constitution Hill’s past brilliance has been overshadowed by recent jumping issues, including two high-profile falls and a disappointing run at Punchestown. His jockey, Nico de Boinville, returns from injury with an acute awareness that Saturday’s race may hinge more on rhythm and confidence than outright speed.

With the sport grappling with small fields and predictable Grade 1s, this weekend’s Fighting Fifth feels refreshingly alive. The outsiders may not carry the shortest odds, but they bring unpredictability — something jump racing desperately needs.

Golden Ace, Nemean Lion, and Anzadam may not be expected to win. But they are the reason this year’s race feels like anything is possible.

FAQ

1. Is the Fighting Fifth Hurdle expected to be a two-horse race?
Most predictions favour Constitution Hill and The New Lion, but the presence of Golden Ace, Nemean Lion, and Anzadam adds real depth.

2. Why is Golden Ace receiving attention despite a poor recent run?
She is the only runner with a recent outing and has proven she can capitalize when chaos unfolds in major races.

3. What makes Anzadam an intriguing contender?
He is unbeaten for Mullins but remains untested at this level, making him the race’s biggest unknown factor.

4. Can Nemean Lion realistically challenge the favourites?
He is unlikely to win but could influence the pace and disrupt the rhythm of the frontrunners.