State Man secured victory in the Champion Hurdle at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, marking another milestone for trainer Willie Mullins as he edges closer to achieving 100 wins at the prestigious event.
The 2-5 favorite, ridden by Paul Townend, had finished as the runner-up in the previous year’s race but clinched the top spot this time in the absence of defending champion Constitution Hill. Mullins, currently standing at 97 victories, is poised to become the first person to achieve a century of wins at Cheltenham, with Gaelic Warrior and Lossiemouth also contributing to his tally on Tuesday.
State Man emerged victorious, outpacing Irish Point who settled for second place, while Luccia finished third under the guidance of Nicky Henderson, who had ruled out Constitution Hill from competing after a lackluster performance in training. Reflecting on State Man’s performance, Mullins acknowledged that the horse might excel more at Leopardstown but emphasized his Champion Hurdle triumph.
Mullins highlighted the importance of showing up to win at Cheltenham, despite acknowledging that State Man might not always deliver his best performance at the venue.
Addressing the absence of Constitution Hill, Mullins expressed his expectation that Nicky Henderson would prepare the horse for future competitions, potentially setting the stage for another showdown next year.
Mullins concluded by underlining the significance of securing a victory at Cheltenham, emphasizing the quality of State Man as a deserving winner.
Chianti Classico, ridden by David Bass, secured the first British-trained victory of the 2024 meeting in the Ultima Chase at Cheltenham.
Trained by Kim Bailey, the 6-1 chance triumphed, echoing Bailey’s previous win in the race 25 years ago with Betty’s Boy.
Trainer Fergal O’Brien expressed deep sadness as Highland Hunter, who fell during the Ultima Chase, sustained fatal injuries.
O’Brien stated he was “absolutely devastated” by the loss. Highland Hunter held special significance as a favorite of point-to-point jockey Keagan Kirkby, who tragically passed away in a race fall last month.
The grey horse had led the procession at Kirkby’s funeral in the Somerset village of Ditcheat, close to where Kirkby worked for champion trainer Paul Nicholls.
