Gordon Elliott hints at Champion Hurdle tilt after superstar mare bolts up – but punters say she’ll get ‘hammered’

1 month ago 13

GORDON ELLIOTT hinted at a surprise Champion Hurdle tilt for superstar mare Brighterdaysahead after she won on her big seasonal return.

The 5-2 Cheltenham Festival Mares’ Hurdle ante-post favourite got the better of Willie Mullins’ well-tipped Daddy Long Legs in the Grade 3 Bottlegreen Hurdle.

a man wearing a black jacket has a zipper on the frontThe Meath trainer hinted he was keen to scratch an itch he has not yet reached – the Champion HurdlePA:Press Association
a jockey wearing a red shirt that says bankox on itPA
Brighterdaysahead has some exciting prospects ahead of her[/caption]

The Meath-trained mare was unlucky to come second in last year’s Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle in Gloucestershire, but has started her season with a bang.

And Elliott, 46, hinted at a potential Champion Hurdle tilt for his superstar mare.

In a post-race interview, he said: “We’ve been second and third in the Champion Hurdle and I think this one is in the mix.

“I think she’s very, very good. She’s got a high cruising speed which is what you need in Champion Hurdles.

“I would like to win it, to be honest. I sometimes think about myself – why have I got so many stayers?

“But I think this one – she’s got a lot of class. I’m not saying that’s the road we are going but we’ll see.

“We were delighted with her today. She had a good blow after the third last, she got in a bit to the last and the second last which knocked the stuffing out of her a bit.

THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE

The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.

Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…

  • Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
  • Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
  • Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
  • Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
  • VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
  • New customer offer with Coral

Become a member today for just £1*

*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.

SIGN UP NOW

18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact [email protected]

“But look I’m happy. She only does what she has to do. The other horse just picked up the pieces behind her.”

This sparked a hefty debate on X, with some punters doubting the five-year-old’s chances against the likes of Lossiemouth and Constitution Hill.

One harsh punter said: “Haha she’ll get hammered.”

Another added: “Was he p*****d when he said it , Lossiemouth would leather her.”

Another fan commented: “Wouldn’t go that far. Can’t see her winning any race at Cheltenham.”

But Brighterdaysahead no doubt has a fan club behind her too, some of which where beside themselves with excitement about the potential of her having a go at the big’un.

One said: “Gordon Elliott saying she could go for the Champion Hurdle!!!!”

Another added: “That will silence the doubters.”

Elliott was having a day from heaven as promising Novice Hurdler The Yellow Clay also bolted in under the same silks as Zanahyir.

FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.


Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

Read Entire Article