Lossiemouth Set to Challenge in Champion Hurdle Despite Mares’ Hurdle Option

Lossiemouth, the reigning champion in both the David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle (2024, 2025) and the Mares Champion Hurdle (2024), is strongly favored to contest the Unibet Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, according to racing expert Jeremy Alexander. This decision comes despite the option of defending her crown in the Mares’ Hurdle.

Why the Champion Hurdle?

Alexander believes Lossiemouth has an exceptional opportunity in the Champion Hurdle, particularly with the absence of key contenders Sir Gino and Constitution Hill. He states that Lossiemouth “will never get a better chance of winning a Champion Hurdle” given the current field. Several factors support this assessment:

• Previous Success: Lossiemouth has a proven track record, having previously defeated Brighterdaysahead.
• Cheltenham Record: The mare boasts a perfect record at Cheltenham.
• Weight Allowance: Lossiemouth receives a seven-pound allowance from The New Lion, who performs better over longer distances.
• Ground Conditions: The ground is expected to be softer on the Old Course during the opening day of the Festival, favoring Lossiemouth’s running style.
• Prize Money: The significant difference in prize money between the Champion Hurdle and the Mares’ Hurdle is a compelling incentive, as winning the Mares’ Hurdle would not add significantly to her already impressive CV.

Trainer and Owner Considerations

Trainer Willie Mullins and owner Rich Ricci are weighing the options, but Alexander expresses confidence that Ricci will seize the “gilt-edged opportunity” presented by the Champion Hurdle, even acknowledging Lossiemouth’s effectiveness over longer trips. A final decision is expected on Sunday morning.

Lossiemouth’s Career Highlights

Bred in France and trained in Ireland by Willie Mullins, Lossiemouth has quickly established herself as a dominant force in National Hunt racing. As of January 2026, she has secured nine Grade 1 victories, including three at the Cheltenham Festival. Key wins include:

• Triumph Hurdle (2023)
• Champion Four Year Old Hurdle (2023)
• David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle (2024, 2025)
• Mares Champion Hurdle (2024)
• Hatton’s Grace Hurdle (2024)
• Aintree Hurdle (2025)
• Morgiana Hurdle (2025)
• December Hurdle (2025)

Lossiemouth, a grey mare foaled on March 23, 2019, is sired by Great Pretender and descends from the dam Mariner’s Light.

Cheltenham Festival Details

The Cheltenham Festival is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with the Champion Hurdle as the highlight of Champion Day. The going is currently Good to Soft, with mainly dry weather forecast for Tuesday, and highs of 14°C.