BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD clinched an impressive win against the Champion Hurdle titleholder State Man in a remarkable Neville Hotels Hurdle, leaving numerous bettors frustrated by the ‘poor’ strategies employed at the beginning.
It seemed that Paul Townend was caught off guard as Sam Ewing rode the victorious horse, while Danny Gilligan on the lead horse King Of Kingsfield rushed to the front.
2
2
This left the remaining six competitors, including State Man, far behind right from the beginning.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The premier spot to get Templegate’s exclusive tips first – and at the most competitive prices – is by signing up for Sun Racing’s outstanding Members Enclosure.
Join today for just £1* and become part of racing’s winning team, enjoying…
- Four complimentary racing tickets, four times a year – valued at £300
- Templegate’s daily tips delivered at the BEST prices ahead of everyone else
- Exclusive access to Templegate’s daily NAP
- Tomorrow’s edition of The Favourite available today at 9pm
- Exclusive insights from renowned trainer Ben Pauling
- Monthly VIP competitions from Racing Breaks
- New customer offer with Coral
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days prior to your next billing date. For further details, contact help@thesun.co.uk
The gap proved too great, with Gordon Elliott’s outstanding mare winning by an astonishing 30 lengths over 66-1 long shot Winter Fog.
State Man, the 4-9 favorite, appeared sluggish and struggled to find his rhythm.
Brighterdaysahead, who had previously triumphed over State Man in the Morgiana, reaffirmed that performance with dominating strength after starting at 5-2.
This result was particularly sobering for Patrick Mullins, who had been confident in his father’s horse.
In the lead-up to the Grade 1 at Leopardstown, Patrick remarked: “Brighterdaysahead is an exceptional mare, even better than I initially believed, thanks to Gordon and Jack (Kennedy) for their relentless support of her.”
“However, I’m fully backing State Man here.”
“Regardless of the cost for Santa, or the holiday dinner bills, let’s recuperate it all on State Man.”
“With a prior run returning to Leopardstown, I trust he’ll return to form.”
Commenting on the strategic choices made by the Elliott team at the onset, one punter stated: “Brighterdaysahead is a phenomenal mare, but why did Mullins allow them to gain such an early lead?”
Legendary racing commentator Derek ‘Tommo’ Thompson announces retirement after 60-year career
Another remarked: “Once they leapt ahead by 10-15 lengths, the outcome seemed almost certain unless she fell.”
“It’s evident State Man isn’t the horse he once was, but did Townend truly believe Brighterdaysahead would tire given her impressive speed?”
“Poor tactics.”
Brighterdaysahead’s odds sank to as low as 7-2 from 20-1 for the Champion Hurdle, while the revitalized Constitution Hill emerged as the 4-7 favorite.
Nonetheless, much to the disappointment of many, Elliott later announced they plan to pursue their strategy of competing in the Mares Hurdle.
Initially, the betting markets were abuzz as Paddy Power set the odds at 11-4 following Elliott’s remarks but swiftly adjusted to 7-4.
Brighterdaysahead may face Lossiemouth in the Mares, although Mullins recently hinted they might also aim for the Champion Hurdle and a rematch with Constitution Hill.
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. Please be aware that brands pay fees to appear prominently on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Sets time and monetary limits before betting
- Gambles only with money they can afford to lose
- Doesn’t chase their losses
- Avoids gambling when upset, angry, or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
