Character Testing
🐎 Character Testing (GB)
Foaled: 16th April 2021 | Sex: Gelding | Colour: Bay
Sire: Time Test (GB) | Dam: Characterized (GB) (by Oasis Dream (GB))
Trainer: Mark Walford
Why This Horse?
Character Testing is a horse whose profile is built around progression, versatility and untapped potential. Having already proven himself on the Flat with a victory at Southwell before switching successfully to hurdles, he offers owners the opportunity to enjoy racing across multiple disciplines. That versatility, combined with his willing attitude, makes him an exciting horse to follow throughout the season.
Still only five years old, Character Testing has plenty of racing ahead of him. He has consistently shown the ability to travel strongly through his races before staying on well in the closing stages, suggesting there is still improvement to come as he gains further experience over hurdles. His genuine nature and willingness to compete every time he steps onto the track are qualities that perfectly fit the Ursa Major Racing philosophy.
🏇 Racing Profile
Foaled on 16th April 2021, Character Testing is a British-bred bay gelding who races in the colours of Ursa Major Racing Ltd & Partner. He began his career on the Flat, gaining valuable experience before breaking his maiden in convincing fashion at Southwell in January 2024. Since then, he has successfully transitioned to hurdles, where he has produced a series of competitive performances and multiple placed efforts.
Equally comfortable racing prominently or just behind the pace, Character Testing settles well before using his stamina to finish strongly. His performances over distances around two miles suggest he possesses both the cruising speed and staying power required to be competitive in handicap hurdles. As he continues to strengthen physically and gain experience, there is every reason to believe further success is within reach.
🏠 Training
Character Testing is trained by Mark Walford, whose North Yorkshire yard has developed a strong reputation for producing consistent winners under both Flat and National Hunt rules. Known for his patient approach and excellent placement of horses, Walford has helped Character Testing continue his progression while allowing him to mature into a reliable dual-purpose performer.
At home he is a straightforward, genuine horse who enjoys his work and has adapted well to life at the yard. His training programme is carefully tailored to build stamina and confidence, ensuring he arrives at the races in peak condition. With his willing attitude and sound constitution, he continues to develop into a dependable member of the stable.
🧬 Pedigree Highlights
Character Testing is by Time Test, a Group-winning son of the legendary Dubawi. Time Test was renowned for his class, athleticism and powerful turn of foot over middle distances, qualities that are increasingly evident in his progeny. His offspring often improve with age and possess the soundness and temperament to enjoy long racing careers.
His dam, Characterized, is by the outstanding Oasis Dream, one of Europe's most influential stallions whose bloodlines have produced countless Group winners. Oasis Dream contributes athleticism, toughness and versatility, complementing the stamina influence of Time Test.
The result is a pedigree that blends speed, class and endurance—an ideal combination for a horse capable of performing under both Flat and National Hunt rules.
🌟 Looking Ahead
Character Testing has already shown he possesses the versatility and attitude to compete successfully in more than one discipline, and his future remains an exciting one. His performances over hurdles continue to suggest that a victory is well within his grasp, while his previous Flat success demonstrates his all-round ability.
With Mark Walford continuing to develop him patiently, there is every reason to believe Character Testing can continue climbing the handicap ladder. Whether returning to the Flat or continuing his progress over hurdles, he is the type of horse that promises to give his owners plenty of enjoyable days at the races. His consistency, honesty and versatility make him a fantastic horse to have in the Ursa Major Racing team.
