There was literally zero chance of pre-empting my preview of the Champion Hurdle as we all waited to see whether Wille Mullins would send Lossiemouth here or for the (in theory) easier Mares Hurdle, but now we know.
Before making my decisions clear, a word for Golden Ace, once again the forgotten horse despite winning this last year. Why she is so underrated, or “lucky” as others say is an insult to the eight-year-old mare who has now been “lucky” seven times over hurdles, and nearly as fortunate last time out when second to Sir Gino at Kempton in the Christmas Hurdle.
Sadly that rival will not be here, and as we all know neither will Constitution Hill, so to me, this race looks pretty open with favourite The New Lion classy on his day with five wins from six over hurdles, but just the one over two miles or thereabouts, and a slow pace ending with a sprint could yet find him out.
Lossiemouth heads the betting, but at 2/1 all the value may have disappeared already, and Gordon Elliott is sweet on the chances of Betterdaysahead. Rated 1lb superior to her fellow mare, she has been laid out for this all season, winning the Irish Champion Hurdle by over three lengths last time out (Lossiemouth second), and at 9/2,she certainly looks the value call to me.
Daily Sport Recommended Bet 1/2pt Each Way Betterdaysahead 4.00pm Cheltenham 9/2 most bookmakers