Brighterdaysahead confirmed for Champion Hurdle 

Brighterdaysahead will lock horns with Constitution Hill in the Unibet Champion Hurdle rather than run in the Mares’ Hurdle. 

Gordon Elliott’s mare claimed the scalp of State Man in the Morgiana Hurdle and December Hurdle at Punchestown and Leopardstown respectively, with her 30 lengths success in the latter race catapulting her towards the head of the market for the Champion Hurdle. 

In a statement on his website, 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.” 

Her rider Jack Kennedy said: “I had been [hoping for her to run in the Champion Hurdle], to be on one with a live chance in the Champion Hurdle is very exciting.

“Today will be my first day sitting on her I’d say, probably, since the Morgiana so I’m looking forward to getting my leg over her again. She looks great and the team are all happy with her so when they’re happy, I’m happy.”

Though Kennedy has no real hope of featuring in the top 10 of the David Power Jockeys’ Cup standings, the presence of Brighterdaysahead in the race could harm the hopes of Nico De Boinville who could have had a penalty kick 10 points otherwise. 

De Boinville, who is in fourth place, is currently as big as 16/1 for the title, with leader Harry Skelton a general 2/5 chance.