National Hunt Superstar Leads 22 Strong Field for Unibet Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival

The highly anticipated Unibet Champion Hurdle at the renowned Cheltenham Festival has attracted an impressive line-up of contenders, with National Hunt sensation Constitution Hill heading the pack. Trained by Nicky Henderson, this undefeated powerhouse took a commanding victory in last year’s hurdles highlight at Prestbury Park, adding to his remarkable tally of eight wins under rules.

Constitution Hill’s faultless return in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day solidified his position as the long odds-on favorite for a repeat performance on March 12. However, he faces stiff competition from Willie Mullins-trained State Man, who finished second behind him last year and is among seven formidable contenders put forward by Mullins this time around.

The Closutton squad also includes Lossiemouth, Triumph Hurdle winner from last season, as well as Vauban (fourth place in the 2023 Champion Hurdle), Echoes In Rain, Gala Marceau, Impaire Et Passe and Zarak The Brave. Meanwhile, Gordon Elliott has entered Zanahiyr (third place finisher behind Constitution Hill last year), along with Irish Point and Pied Piper.

Nicky Henderson boasts alternates First Street, Under Control and Luccia alongside his star performer Constitution Hill. Adding to the intrigue is four-year-old Burdett Road entered by James Owen.

Additional notable entries include Love Envoi trained by Harry Fry; Bob Olinger trained by Henry de Bromhead; and the ever-popular veteran Not So Sleepy.

Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle: A Battle of Champions

The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, taking place on the same day as the Champion Hurdle, promises its own thrilling contest. Lossiemouth, Echoes In Rain, Gala Marceau, Love Envoi and Luccia are among the contenders vying for victory in this Grade One event.

However, Ashroe Diamond, Magical Zoe and Jetara present formidable challenges with their strong performances to date. Jamie Snowden’s You Wear It Well will also be looking to secure a second Festival win after triumphing in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle last year.

A total of 25 impressive entries have been submitted for this race – an exciting challenge that surpasses even the 36 initial contenders for the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle.

Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle: An Epic Showdown

The highly anticipated three-mile Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle on March 14 boasts an exceptional field of talented runners. This epic battle includes previous champions such as Sire Du Berlais (trained by Gordon Elliott), Flooring Porter (trained by Gavin Cromwell) who has secured consecutive victories in this race, and Paisley Park (2019 winner).

Elliott’s stable presents further strong contenders with Teahupoo and Irish Point joining forces against other key competitors including potential French raider Theleme who clinched an impressive Auteuil Grade One title in November.

Crambo and Sir Gerhard add additional intrigue to what promises to be a captivating showdown. Keep an eye out for Ahoy Senor trained by Lucinda Russell, whose recent underwhelming chase starts have added an element of uncertainty.

Excitement is building as the Unibet Champion Hurdle and Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle entries are announced. Fans eagerly await these exhilarating races at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival!