Since my last article, the close knit world of Anglo-Irish racing has been shook by the tragic passing of jockey Michael O’Sullivan, and it’s wonderful that the Cheltenham Festival 2025 curtain-raiser has been named in his honour. A lovely young man who’s talent had already shone through on the biggest stage. I would like to take this opportunity here to pass on my sincere condolences to his family, extended family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: Huge Irish Ante-Post Angle from Cathryn Fry
I’ve had a few ante-post bets in the run up to Cheltenham – Brighterdaysahead being one of them. So, I was delighted with the news that the mare will be running in the Champion Hurdle, after impressing trainer Gordon Elliott in a post-race workout at Leopardstown. On Monday morning, Elliott confirmed that his star mare will take on the boys in the opening-day feature at Prestbury Park, opting against the seemingly easier route of the Mares’ Hurdle on the same card.
Following the final National Hunt meeting of the season at Leopardstown, Brighterdaysahead was among several Cheltenham-bound horses from Elliott’s yard to stretch their legs. She made a strong impression, crossing the line ahead of multiple stablemates under returning jockey Jack Kennedy.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: July Flower’s in March
Assuming Lossiemouth goes to the Champion Hurdle, too. That leaves the Mare’s Hurdle wide open. With that in mind, the seemingly back in form stable of Henry De Bromhead, has a live contender in July Flower who will most definitely stay the trip. The win at Leopardstown was over 2m4f and she won going away.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: Hello There Neighbour
There are a few of our eye-catchers heading to Prestbury Park for the Festival, all of them with a live chance. Hello Neighbour who we highlighted as a Triumph possibility before he jumped a hurdle in public is a general 5/1 chance for the curtain raiser on Gold Cup Day. Wodhooh has entries in the Coral Cup and the Martin Pipe. It seems they are leaning towards the Martin Pipe, in which Danny Gilligan would ride.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: Martin Pipe Fancy
Another that may head to the Martin Pipe is McLaurey, our little eye-catcher that scored at the Dublin Racing Festival. He also holds an entry in the County Hurdle, so watch out for him, wherever he goes. Joseph O’Brien has his string in great form, at the right time. I have my eye on three of his for the Festival: Naturally Nimble (Fred Winter), Nurburgring (Jack Richards) and Busselton (Cross Country).
Naturally Nimble looked fantastic when winning at Fairyhouse in December. He represents the same connections as last years winner, Lark In The Mornin. Fourth to Hello Neighbour at Christmas at Leopardstown in the Fog. Nurburgring has been targeted at this meeting and this is his only entry, he’s been on my mind for the Festival all season, so, I have to stick with him.
Old favourite Busseltown has taken well to the cross country genre. He’s well weighted on 10-5 and his run over the the course at Cheltenham in December was eye-catching. A former Kerry National winner who still has class. We’re a week away from the greatest show on turf – who are you backing and why? Let us know:
Follow us on X/Twitter via @CathrynFry & @KwiffRacing
By Cathryn Fry
Please note that the information provided in this Cheltenham Festival 2025 Ante-Post article is for entertainment purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Any action you take upon the information on this article is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection with the use of our article. We do not encourage gambling and remind you to gamble responsibly.
18+ | BeGambleAware.org
