In Excelsis Deo

His story started simply enough. Trainer Enda Bolger's yard at Bruree in County Limerick was surprised by how easily he won on his first time over fences at Hereford in December 2022 — a performance that raised hopes quickly, only for a step up in class to expose him as still learning his trade. Bolger was candid about it: the horse got found out when the competition stiffened. But rather than fade away, In Excelsis Deo kept showing up, kept placing, kept being competitive without quite getting his nose in front. In fact, eight places from 20 races suggests a horse that regularly runs well enough to be in the conversation — just not always able to close the deal.

When Cheltenham finally came in April 2024, Bolger described it as relief as much as celebration. The horse had been running consistently, just without the luck. Jockey Jonathan Burke nursed him into the race patiently, and when they turned for home at the bottom of the famous hill, the team sensed this might be the day. It was. Burke has ridden him in 8 of his 20 races, winning once — about 1 in 8 — but that one win happening on the biggest stage of his career is not a small thing.

The concern now is straightforward: In Excelsis Deo has not won in his last six races, and his most recent efforts — finishing 6th, 11th, and 13th — suggest he is not currently at his best. He raced just one day ago, so he is clearly still active and being aimed at opportunities. Bolger's yard has sent out 14 winners this season, which shows the operation is in good form. Whether this horse can find another moment like Cheltenham remains to be seen, but horses who have won at the top level once have a habit of making people believe it might happen again.