Dan Skelton’s Strongest Cheltenham Festival Team Yet

Trainer Dan Skelton is preparing for what he believes will be his strongest showing yet at the Cheltenham Festival, bolstered by a team led by Champion Hurdle favorite The New Lion and Gold Cup contender Grey Dawning. Skelton has even had a new trophy cabinet installed in anticipation of success.

The New Lion’s Champion Hurdle Bid

The New Lion is currently favored to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle. Dan Skelton is confident in the horse’s condition, describing him as “quick-footed” and in “great form.” Skelton believes The New Lion has all the necessary attributes to become a champion hurdler. The five-year-ancient won at Cheltenham on Trials day over a shorter trip, following a fall in the Fighting Fifth.

Grey Dawning’s Gold Cup Challenge

Alongside The New Lion, Grey Dawning represents Skelton’s strongest hope in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. Skelton is fielding his biggest and strongest team at the festival this year, with contenders in all four championship races.

Skelton’s Expanding Success

The Skelton team is enjoying a successful season, already accruing over £3.3 million in prize money – just £75,000 shy of his career-best total. This success is reflected in the quality and quantity of horses he is sending to Cheltenham.

Recent Acquisition: The New Lion

The New Lion was purchased by JP McManus for £1 million after his Challow Hurdle win, but remains with trainer Dan Skelton. Plans are in place for The New Lion to compete in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

A Comprehensive Cheltenham Team

Dan Skelton is set to have between 30 and 35 horses competing at the Cheltenham Festival, the most he has ever sent to the meeting. He emphasized that each horse is a worthy contender, with multiple runners in several races. Skelton expressed satisfaction with the preparation of his team, stating they are all in quality condition and have a chance to perform well.