The New Lion regains top position in market
The betting landscape for this year’s Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival has been dramatically reshaped following confirmation that Constitution Hill will not take his place in the feature contest on the opening day of the Festival.
The star performer, trained by Nicky Henderson, had sparked excitement after he powered home by nine-and-a-half lengths in a sensational Flat debut at Southwell.
However, his absence from Cheltenham has blown the Champion Hurdle wide open and prompted a significant shake-up in the betting markets. Stepping into favouritism is The New Lion, trained by Dan Skelton, who now heads the betting at 2/1 with BOYLE Sports as hopes for the British-trained contenders shift to his shoulders, and last year's winner Golden Ace, who is a 5/1 shot.
Brighterdaysahead is currently rated the leading Irish hope at 11/4, with question marks remaining over where Lossiemouth (3/1) will line up.
Lawrence Lyons, spokesperson for BOYLE Sports, said:
“The Champion Hurdle has been the most intriguing betting heat of the antepost markets, and it has been completely upended by the news that Constitution Hill won’t line up. The New Lion is now flying the flag as favourite for the home contingent, but not all question marks have been removed with the Irish waiting to see what Willie Mullins has planned for Lossiemouth.”
Champion Hurdle NRNB
2/1 The New Lion
11/4 Brighterdaysahead
3/1 Lossiemouth
5/1 Golden Ace
12/1 Poniros
14/1 Anzadam
16/1 Alexei
16/1 Ballyburn
18/1 Tutti Quanti
50/1 bar
Bet on Horse Racing Odds at BOYLE Sports
Prices are subject to fluctuation.
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