As we approach Tuesday’s Unibet Champion Hurdle, the phrase ‘Hamlet without the Prince’ may be used in pre-event discussions, given the potential lack of competitive drama this year. With the withdrawal of Constitution Hill, it appears that State Man is the likely champion of this year’s hurdle, rendering the race notably less exciting than previous editions in its close to centennial history.
A year ago, it seemed unfortunate that State Man found himself up against the extraordinary Constitution Hill, but now the advantage is in his favour. Despite being an eight-time Grade One victor, State Man has not garnered as much public attention as his absent opponent. With Constitution Hill in recovery from a badly timed respiratory infection, State Man has the upper hand against his seven contenders.
Assessed officially, the star of Willie Mullins’s stable, having 11lbs more than his closest competition, looks set to outshine his rivals. Among these are Irish Point, who was a strong contender for Thursday’s Stayers’ title until a few weeks back, and Not So Sleepy, a 12-year-old veteran who has not fared well in four previous attempts at the championship.
The remaining Irish possibilities, Colonel Mustard and Zarak The Brave, are commendable competitors, but their chances of joining the distinguished list of winners seem slim. Hence, the upcoming race is not expected to attain the same iconic status as the legendary 1977 Championship Hurdle, often hailed as the greatest hurdle event of all time, even 47 years later.
Rest assured, fans might not be as eager to watch this rendition of the race. A silver lining, however, is that the scenario mirrors a moment in 1978, when Monksfield overcame disappointment to secure the champion’s status, a feat State Man is aiming to emulate this year.
Willie Mullins and Paul Townend had hopes of overcoming Constitution Hill to win with their ace, State Man. They were pretty certain that their horse wasn’t performing at his peak during last year’s festival, which underpins the potential of State Man. With a highly successful stint at the 2022 festival in the County, it can’t be said that the previous year’s shortfall was due to a dislike for the track. Regardless of the track factor, State Man surpasses his competitors significantly.
Owing to this characteristic, the Champion Hurdle might witness a favourite with the shortest odds ever. Constitution Hill became a record holder last year with a 4-11 ‘SP’. No one can fault the bookies for presenting shorter odds on State Man.
The most unexpected victories in Champion Hurdle history were scored by the 50-1 scorers Kirriemuir (1965) and Beech Road (1989), but expecting a similar result this time around seems far-fetched.
It would have been quite interesting if Mullin’s stable companion Lossiemouth was enlisted. However, the promise of a comfortable win in the subsequent Close Bros Mares Hurdle proved irresistible.
In the Mares, Jack Kennedy has collaborated with Lantry Lady from Henry de Bromhead’s team while Ndaawi in the Boodles and The Goffer in the Ultimata Handicap Chase remain promising picks.
One of the safe bets would be on Kennedy being more patient with The Goffer than Davy Russell, who placed fourth in a thrilling contest last year. The currently 5lb lower mark for The Goffer is likely to work in his favour.
Cheltenham events to look out for: 1.30- Tullyhill 2.10- Hunters Yarn 2.50- The Goffer 3.30- State Man 4.10- Lossiemouth 4.30- Ndaawi 5.30- Embassy Gardens (Nap)
Embassy Gardens and The Goffer come recommended as Nap and Double. Listen to our Inside Politics Podcast for more insights and analysis. Sign up for notifications to get the best news, analysis, and commentary directly on your phone. Find The Irish Times on WhatsApp to stay informed.