Horaces Pearl might not make much fuss of it himself, but this leggy seven-year-old is quietly putting together a flawless record that’s hard to ignore. Under the watchful eye of Fergal O’Brien, he’s now five from five in his career, and the way he’s going, you wouldn’t bet against him making it six.

This time last year, Horaces Pearl was making waves in bumpers, finishing his campaign with a cracking win in the Grade 2 at Aintree, showing a lovely turn of foot late on. That told us plenty about his raw ability and attitude. Since then, he’s switched to hurdles, and honestly, it’s been more of the same.

After a tidy debut win at Huntingdon, where he looked a class above despite needing the run after a break, he backed it up with an even more convincing performance at Newbury. Hard held, travelling smoothly, and barely coming off the bridle – the type of win that screams, “I’m ready for bigger things.”

What’s particularly likeable about Horaces Pearl is how professional he’s becoming. He settles, travels, and when asked, he finds. The fact he’s won on a range of goings and distances suggests he’s versatile too, which is a dream when targeting spring festivals.

Looking ahead, the Top Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree has been mentioned as a logical next step. Back to the scene of his big bumper win, it feels a natural progression. The drop back in trip shouldn’t trouble him at all given the way he travels through his races, and the likelihood of a strong pace will play right into his hands.

While his stablemate Tripoli Flyer might have grabbed the headlines in the graded race last weekend, there’s every reason to view Horaces Pearl in the same light – if not better. He’s unbeaten, untested, and improving with each run. In short, he’s exactly the type you want on your side as the spring festivals draw closer.

Don’t expect fireworks from him in the preliminaries – he’s a workmanlike sort – but come the business end, Horaces Pearl looks the type to keep finding, and it would be no surprise if he added some top-level success to that already spotless record.

One to follow closely.