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Brighterdaysahead Set for Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival

In an eagerly awaited announcement, it has been confirmed that Brighterdaysahead, trained by Gordon Elliott, will compete in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. This decision comes following her withdrawal from the Mares’ Hurdle, allowing her to focus entirely on this prestigious race scheduled for Tuesday, March 11.

On the latest episode of the Unbridled podcast, jockey Paddy Brennan expressed his confidence in Brighterdaysahead’s participation, stating that it had been a foregone conclusion that she would run in the Champion Hurdle. He reflected on the discussions involving Gordon Elliott, Michael, and Eddie O’Leary, suggesting they could have made this decision sooner. Brennan emphasized that Brighterdaysahead would elevate the competition, making it a compelling race.

Co-host Matt Chapman, however, tempered the enthusiasm by noting the significant challenge Brighterdaysahead faces against the reigning champion, Constitution Hill. He remarked that there is a distinct gap between the two competitors, comparing it to towering mountains such as Everest and Kilimanjaro.

The latest confirmations show that eight competitors will contest the feature race on day one, with Constitution Hill projected to be the favorite. Brighterdaysahead and Lossiemouth follow closely in the betting market, though Lossiemouth still retains an entry for the Mares’ Hurdle on the same day.

Brennan discussed the anticipation surrounding the race, predicting it would be an intense affair from the start. He mentioned the importance of tactics, particularly regarding Constitution Hill’s performance if pressured early on. Despite Brighterdaysahead’s past at Cheltenham, where her performance was underwhelming, Brennan suggested that this year’s race dynamics may play in her favor, especially with the prospect of a high-paced event.

Expectations and Comparisons

Chapman, meanwhile, pointed out the formidable nature of Constitution Hill, referencing his previous performance at Cheltenham where he was quite dominant. This has led some observers to draw parallels with the 2019 Champion Hurdle, when Gigginstown’s star, Apple’s Jade, failed to live up to expectations. In that year, Apple’s Jade was a strong favorite but finished significantly behind the eventual winner, Espoir D’Allen. Chapman speculated that Brighterdaysahead’s run might echo that disappointment.

Lossiemouth has also come under scrutiny after her fall in the Irish Champion Hurdle, where she was momentarily distracted by seagulls. Despite this setback, Brennan maintained his admiration for her abilities but acknowledged that her recent fall could impact her performance at Cheltenham. He mentioned that the track conditions would be crucial for her, potentially affecting her decision on whether to pursue the Champion Hurdle or the Mares’ Hurdle.

Speculation around Lossiemouth is further complicated by the considerations of trainer Willie Mullins, as the timing of his declarations could influence the choice between the two races. It is believed that if stability is desired, the Mares’ Hurdle might be the safer bet for her.

Ground Conditions and Race Preparation

As for the race conditions, Clerk of the Course Jon Pullin indicated that optimal ground conditions, ideally good-to-soft or soft, are preferred for a fair contest. He acknowledged the unpredictability of the weather leading up to the festival and assured that adjustments would be made as necessary to ensure quality ground for the competitors.

One team keeping a close eye on the weather is that of Golden Ace, who previously bested Brighterdaysahead in muddy conditions during last year’s Mares’ Hurdle. Like Lossiemouth, Golden Ace is also entered in both marquee events on the opening day.

Chapman concluded with a note of caution regarding Golden Ace’s potential, emphasizing that ground conditions would heavily influence her chances in either race. Brennan added to this sentiment, highlighting that now is the time for connections to consider their strategy carefully to optimize their chances of success.

For more insights, check out the full episode of Unbridled in association with BoyleSports on the At The Races YouTube channel…

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www.skysports.com