Gordon Elliott Aiming for Cheltenham Triumph

Tuesday 12 March sees one of the biggest sporting and betting events of the year gear as the mighty Cheltenham Festival moves into view. Click here to discover the latest odds and offers ahead of the Prestbury Park showpiece.

Irish Trainers to the Fore

When racing fans discuss trainers associated with the prestigious Cheltenham Festival, Willie Mullins often springs to mind. Mullins has established himself as the dominant force at the March meeting, possessing a formidable squad of contenders year after year. However, amidst the competition, Gordon Elliott is one of the most significant challengers, with the County Meath maestro boasting a track record that commands the utmost respect.

The Focus of Elliott’s Season

Elliott's strategic focus on the Cheltenham Festival is no secret, and with the considerable backing of the Gigginstown battalions, he has amassed an impressive collection of silverware. Securing the leading trainer title at the meeting in 2017 and 2018, Elliott has clinched victories in prestigious races such as the Gold Cup, Stayers Hurdle, Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, and Triumph Hurdle - contributing to a total of 37 Cheltenham Festival successes. As Gordon finalises his team for the 2024 edition, anticipation builds around which contenders are most likely to carry his banner to glory.

Main Contenders

Brighterdaysahead – Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle

The Grade 2 event for mares promises to be a thriller, with Brighterdaysahead emerging as a standout contender. Competing in the Gigginstown silks, this daughter of Kapgarde has showcased her burgeoning talent with victories at Navan and Down Royal, advertising her potential for success at the biggest meeting of all. With her impressive track record and consistent form, she arrives carrying the confidence of connections and the hopes of punters.

Teahupoo – Stayers Hurdle

Teahupoo's consecutive wins in the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle highlight his ability to excel in top-tier competition. Despite challenging outings at Cheltenham in previous years – notably when flopping in the Champion Hurdle - his promising performance in the 2023 Stayers Hurdle suggests he may be up to claiming redemption, making him a live contender for victory in the 2024 edition.

Delta Work – Cross Country Chase

With back-to-back victories in the Cross Country Chase, Delta Work aims to etch his name alongside legendary three-time winner Tiger Roll. Despite a recent defeat, his experience and proven ability to navigate the unique obstacles position him as a standout contender for a third win. With his tenacity and affinity for the challenging course, Delta Work represents one of Elliott’s most obvious chances at this year's meeting.

Found A Fifty – Arkle Chase Challenge Trophy

Following a narrow defeat in the Irish Arkle, Found A Fifty enters the Arkle Chase as one of the favourites to succeed, with many believing the more demanding track at Cheltenham will suit his running style. With a Grade 1 victory already under his belt and an improving profile, he boasts as good a chance as any in a wide-open field.

Gerri Colombe – Cheltenham Gold Cup

As the flagship event, the Cheltenham Gold Cup is the race in which all trainers hope to have a legitimate challenger. For Gordon Elliott, that horse is Gerri Colombe. He was admittedly below form in the Irish Gold Cup, but his previous accomplishments suggest he possesses the talent and stamina to challenge reigning champion Galopin Des Champs. With his blend of speed, staying power, and having posted a fine performance at the 2023 festival, Gerri Colombe may be the horse to cause an upset in the main event.

Firefox – Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

The Willie Mullins-trained Ballyburn sits atop the market for the opening event of the meeting, and unsurprisingly so following impressive wins in his two most recent starts. However, Ballyburn tasted defeat on his seasonal return, and the horse who lowered his colours went by the name of Firefox. Disappointing over a trip too far last time out, many will expect to see a much better display as the horse returns to his optimum distance.