Mares Hurdle bonanza

At the beginning of its existence the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham was a pretty uncompetitive event. Even with Quevega’s brilliant run of victories, it was still not one of the races you looked forward to for an exciting duel.

Apple’s Jade had been one of the odds-on favourites and possible bankers for the Irish on the first day of the Festival. Many felt that the race looked a penalty kick for the top-class mare who beat off Vroum Vroum Mag and Limini last year.

It was heartening to hear, in the interests of competition, that Willie Mullins is aiming the still unexposed and undeniably talented Benie Des Dieux at the race, as well as a back-in-form Vroum Vroum Mag and Let’s Dance in a triple attack on the Elliott mare.

Last year’s race was one of the best of the meeting and this has the shape of a thriller again.