CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL ‘just got a whole lot more exciting’ after Gordon Elliott confirmed Brighterdaysahead will take on Constitution Hill in a monster Champion Hurdle head-to-head.
Elliott’s superstar mare had been long-time favourite for the Mares’ Hurdle.
PAGordon Elliott, left, will go head-to-head with Nicky Henderson in a cracking Champion Hurdle as his horse Brighterdaysahead takes on Constitution Hill[/caption]
But after a chat with Brighterdaysahead’s owner, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary, the legendary trainer confirmed she will be aimed at the feature race on day one.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only).
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
Exclusive access to Templegate’s daily NAP
Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact [email protected]
Elliott said: “I can confirm that Brighterdaysahead will be going for the Unibet Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.
“After talking it over with Michael and Eddie (O’Leary), we decided that we would take up the option of the Champion Hurdle.
“Obviously it’s going to be a huge test for the mare but she’s in great shape, her preparation has gone superbly and she’s in great order.
“We’ve never won a Champion Hurdle and it is great to have a challenger for one of National Hunt racing’s most iconic races, so it’s something we are greatly looking forward to.”
She was swiftly cut from 9-4 to 2-1 for the Champion Hurdle.
While Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill drifted slightly from 8-15 to 8-13.
Cal Gildart of Ladbrokes said: “The opening day of the Festival just got a whole lot more exciting.
“After blowing away heavy favourite State Man at Leopardstown over Christmas, can she repeat the trick when she challenges Constitution Hill at Cheltenham?”
Willie Mullins pair Lossiemouth and defending Champion Hurdle king State Man are 4-1 and 6-1 respectively.
Coral’s David Stevens said: “Brighterdaysahead absolutely deserves her place in this year’s Champion Hurdle field, so credit to her connections for opting to take on the challenge.
“She’s the clear second favourite for the race, and while Constitution Hill remains odds-on to regain his crown, the presence of the mare has undoubtedly made his task harder.”
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chases their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
