Horses trained by Gordon Elliott are seen returning after a workout on the gallops at Cheltenham racecourse, setting the stage for an exhilarating opening day of the festival. The spotlight falls sharply on the Champion Hurdle, where The New Lion presents a compelling betting opportunity following last year's novice victory at this prestigious meeting.
Champion Hurdle Analysis: The New Lion's Advantage
The decision to enter Lossiemouth, a two-time Mares' Hurdle winner, into Tuesday's Champion Hurdle has significantly enriched the competition's depth. However, this move has also caused a slight drift in the odds for The New Lion, making him an attractive wager to replicate his success from the previous year.
Unlike his main rivals—Brighterdaysahead, Golden Ace, and Lossiemouth—The New Lion does not benefit from a 7lb mares' allowance. While the three mares have accumulated 12, 12, and 17 runs respectively, The New Lion boasts just six outings, with five wins and a single defeat due to an uncharacteristic jumping error at Newcastle in December.
Questions Surrounding the Mares
Each of the leading mares faces uncertainties. Lossiemouth performed below her best behind Brighterdaysahead at Leopardstown in her last race and will debut cheekpieces on Tuesday. Brighterdaysahead delivered a disappointing run in last year's Champion Hurdle, and Golden Ace appeared fortunate to secure victory twelve months ago. Notably, The New Lion seemed poised to outperform Golden Ace before falling two out at Newcastle.
In a tightly contested field, The New Lion's greater potential for improvement could prove decisive. Priced at approximately 11-4, he offers excellent value to edge trainer Dan Skelton closer to his inaugural trainers' title.
Tuesday's Race-by-Race Tips
Cheltenham 1.20: Old Park Star arrives with robust form and a profile reminiscent of Nicky Henderson's recent Supreme winners, including Altior and Constitution Hill. His 18-length triumph at Haydock in January was supported by a strong timefigure, marking him as a natural hurdler with consistent progression.
Cheltenham 2.00: Steel Ally's credentials may have been overlooked amid market focus on Kopek Des Bordes and Lulamba. Despite winning two Grade Two events against weaker fields, he posted a solid time in his latest outing and could outperform odds around 14-1.
Cheltenham 2.40: Faye Bramley's Winston Junior stands as a strong contender in the Fred Winter, carrying 131 based on current form. The addition of jockey Jack Kennedy further bolsters his chances, offering hope for a British yard victory after a decade-long drought.
Cheltenham 3.20: Drying conditions favour Leave Of Absence, a previous winner over this track and distance in October. His campaign has likely been tailored specifically for this race, enhancing his prospects.
Cheltenham 4.40: Zurich, absent since December, fits the typical profile for Henry de Bromhead runners at this meeting. If he returns to the form shown in his earlier course-and-distance win, he will be a live contender.
Cheltenham 5.20: One Big Bang is expected to thrive over the marathon trip in this highly competitive handicap chase. Having finished fifth in last season's Pertemps Final over timber, he represents an intriguing each-way option at odds around 12-1.
Full Tuesday Tips Summary
- Cheltenham 1.20: Old Park Star
- Cheltenham 2.00: Steel Ally
- Cheltenham 2.40: Winston Junior
- Cheltenham 3.20: Leave Of Absence (nap)
- Cheltenham 4.00: The New Lion (nb)
- Cheltenham 4.40: Zurich
- Cheltenham 5.20: One Big Bang
Additional tips for Sedgefield, Wolverhampton, and Southwell races are provided, ensuring comprehensive coverage for racing enthusiasts.
