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Cheltenham Festival 2025: Unibet Champion Hurdle Preview
4:00pm, Tuesday 11th March 2025
The Unibet Champion Hurdle, scheduled for 11th March 2025, stands as the pinnacle event for two-mile hurdlers at the Cheltenham Festival.
This Grade 1 race has historically showcased some of the sport’s most illustrious talents, including legends like Istabraq and Hurricane Fly.
Odds correct as of 6th March 2025
Leading Contenders and Betting Odds
As the festival approaches, the ante-post markets have identified several key contenders:
- Constitution Hill – Trained by Nicky Henderson, Constitution Hill is the reigning Champion Hurdler, having secured victory in 2023. Despite a brief hiatus due to injury, he returned triumphantly in the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in December 2024. His impeccable form has solidified his position as the favourite, with current odds of 4/6.
- Brighterdaysahead – This six-year-old mare, under Gordon Elliott’s tutelage, has been on an upward trajectory, notably defeating the 2023 runner-up, State Man, in a recent outing. Her impressive performances have positioned her as a formidable challenger, with odds currently at 9/4.
- Lossiemouth – Trained by Willie Mullins, Lossiemouth has demonstrated consistent form throughout the season.Initially aimed at the Mares’ Hurdle, recent market movements suggest a potential switch to the Champion Hurdle, with odds around 9/2.
- State Man – The defending Champion Hurdler from 2024, State Man has had a mixed season, with notable defeats to both Constitution Hill and Brighterdaysahead. Despite this, his experience and past success at Cheltenham make him a contender, with odds currently at 8/1.
- Burdett Road – A relative outsider, Burdett Road has shown promise in graded company. While lacking the high-profile victories of his rivals, his consistent performances have earned him a spot among the top contenders, with odds at 33/1.
Race Trends and Insights
Historically, the Champion Hurdle has favoured horses aged between six and eight, with this age group producing the majority of winners over the past decade. Additionally, previous festival experience has proven advantageous, as many past winners had prior runs at Cheltenham.
Trainer Dominance
Willie Mullins and Nicky Henderson have been the dominant trainers in recent years, collectively securing multiple Champion Hurdle titles. Their entries, particularly Constitution Hill and Lossiemouth, warrant close consideration.
Betting Considerations
Given the competitive nature of the Champion Hurdle, punters might consider the following strategies:
- Each-Way Betting: With bookmakers often offering enhanced place terms, backing horses like Burdett Road at 22/1 could provide value.
- Non-Runner No Bet (NRNB): Several bookmakers offer NRNB on this race, ensuring stakes are refunded if the selection does not run. This option provides added security amid potential withdrawals.
- Market Movements: Monitoring late market shifts can offer insights into stable confidence and horse wellbeing, crucial in the days leading up to the race.
Conclusion
The 2025 Unibet Champion Hurdle promises to be a thrilling contest, with a blend of established champions and emerging talents set to compete. As always, bettors are advised to conduct thorough analysis and consider historical trends alongside current form when making their selections.
