‘Cheltenham just got a whole lot more exciting’ after Gordon Elliott confirms Brighterdaysahead’s race

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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.

A jockey, trainer, and owner with a winning horse at a racecourse.
Gordon Elliott, left, will go head-to-head with Nicky Henderson in a cracking Champion Hurdle as his horse Brighterdaysahead takes on Constitution Hill

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.

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.”