Willie Mullins gives State Man update and future running plans after heartbreaking Champion Hurdle fall

WILLIE MULLINS has provided an update on State Man after his heartbreaking Champion Hurdle fall.

The defending champion was a good five lengths clear and cruising when he suffered an Annie Power-like collapse at the last.

PA

Paul Townend looks back after falling off State Man in the Champion Hurdle as shock winner Golden Ace cruises past[/caption]

State Man was sent off 8-1 but travelled better than he has all year and had totally reversed form with a beaten Brighterdaysahead.

Wearing first-time cheekpieces, he looked to have the day one feature at his mercy after Constitution Hill had fallen earlier in the race.

But dreams turned to despair for owners Joe and Marie Donnelly after their beloved two-miler blundered the final hurdle.

Video showed him back at Closutton recovering well the next day.

And it appears a defence of his Boodles Champion Hurdle crown at next month’s Punchestown Festival could still be on the cards.

Mullins told the Irish Times: “State Man was very lucky.

“It just looks as if he bruised a shoulder and I imagine he will be back riding out this week.”

Should he make it back in time then State Man looks sure to contest the ‘race of the season‘ at the Irish track.

Henderson has already confirmed Constitution Hill will head over.

While Jeremy Scott, trainer of 25-1 Champion Hurdle winner Golden Ace, has said she’ll be there too.

Mullins could also run Mares’ Hurdle winner Lossiemouth after she ducked the big one at Cheltenham.

While Elliott could opt to run Brighterdaysahead over hurdles one last time before she goes chasing next season.

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