On Monday morning, ECNETNews reported the highly anticipated news regarding Brighterdaysahead’s destination for the Cheltenham Festival, as Gordon Elliott’s mare is set to compete in the coveted Champion Hurdle.
Official confirmations revealed that Gigginstown’s hopeful has been withdrawn from the Mares’ Hurdle, focusing all efforts on the prestigious race taking place on Tuesday, March 11.
Paddy Brennan commented on the Unbridled podcast, stating, “She was always running, wasn’t she? Gordon, Michael, and Eddie [O’Leary] could have had this meeting earlier. Brighterdaysahead makes this a thrilling race.”
Co-host Matt Chapman responded, “It’s great that she’s running, but ultimately, it won’t change the outcome. There’s a considerable gap between her and Constitution Hill.”
Eight horses confirmed their participation in the day one feature, with Constitution Hill expected to be the favorite, followed closely by Brighterdaysahead and Lossiemouth, who still possesses an entry for the Mares’ Hurdle on the same day.
Discussing Brighterdaysahead’s potential, Brennan remarked, “The race will be fascinating to watch. From the start, it will be competitive, and if Constitution Hill faces pressure at the top of the hill, he could be in trouble. He’s faced challenges before, but the Champion Hurdle presents a different scenario.”
Brennan reflected on last year’s performance at Cheltenham, implying that fans should not overlook Brighterdaysahead’s chances this time: “Last season, her run at Cheltenham wasn’t reflective of her ability. If conditions are right, she can thrive.”
Chapman pointed out the challenges posed by Constitution Hill, stating, “Many are underestimating his talent. His past performances clearly show his dominance.”
Comparisons have been drawn to the 2019 Champion Hurdle, in which Gigginstown entered Apple’s Jade, a 10-time Grade One winner who ultimately performed disappointingly. Chapman noted, “This could mirror Apple’s Jade’s fate; she went into the race with high expectations but couldn’t deliver.”
Concerns have surfaced about Lossiemouth after her fall in the Irish Champion Hurdle, where she was distracted by seagulls. Brennan, who previously backed her win, remarked, “She’s had a tough experience coming to Cheltenham after that fall. If the ground dries up, two and a half miles might suit her better.”
Brennan further questioned the strategy of Willie Mullins, suggesting that if they are after a winner, the Mares’ Hurdle may be the safer bet, given Lossiemouth’s preparation.
Additional factors are contributing to the race’s dynamics, including jockey preferences. With Closutton’s top jockey expected to ride last year’s winner State Man, Chapman noted, “This makes it challenging for Lossiemouth.”
With many pundits projecting a two-horse race, conditions at Prestbury Park will be crucial in determining the outcome.
Jon Pullin, the Clerk of the Course, expressed hopes for favorable ground conditions, stating, “We aim for good-to-soft or soft ground to ensure fair conditions for all competitors. Weather changes may impact preparations ahead of the Festival.”
Connections of Golden Ace, who triumphed over Brighterdaysahead last year, are also keeping a close eye on the weather. Like Lossiemouth, she remains eligible for both major hurdles on the opening day.
Chapman offered his perspective on Golden Ace, saying, “In my view, she’s better suited for two miles and would require good ground to win,” while Brennan emphasized the importance of choosing a winnable race, suggesting that the Mares’ Hurdle may be the better option.
The spotlight remains on Brighterdaysahead and the implications of this year’s Champion Hurdle, as fans eagerly await the race that promises to be a thrilling highlight of the Cheltenham Festival.
