The Champion Hurdle stands as a cornerstone of National Hunt racing’s rich heritage, a race that has crowned legends and defined careers since its inception in 1927
As the premier hurdle race of the Champion Day, it represents the pinnacle of achievement in this sphere and the first big curtain raiser for punters assessing the odds and making their first Cheltenham bets of the week, demanding a rare blend of speed, precision, and courage from its competitors.
This celebrated contest has witnessed some of racing’s most memorable moments, from Hurricane Fly’s masterful displays to the ethereal brilliance of Istabraq. Now, as we approach the 2025 renewal, another chapter awaits in this storied race’s history.
With this year’s race fast approaching, here are the best of the antepost odds and the key contenders to watch. This year’s race has massive potential and is certainly worth keeping an eye on.
Constitution Hill (4/7)
Nicky Henderson’s superstar returns to reclaim his crown, seeking to join an elite group of horses who have regained the Champion Hurdle title this century. His recent victory at Cheltenham’s Trials Day, despite a heart-stopping moment at the final flight, showcased both his brilliance and resilience.
The Seven Barrows standard-bearer brings an aura of invincibility to this assignment, with his combination of raw speed and metronomic jumping setting a standard his rivals must somehow surpass. That last-flight drama on Trials Day merely served to emphasize his class – lesser horses might have faltered, but Constitution Hill’s recovery spoke volumes about his exceptional ability.
Brighterdaysahead (2/1)
Gordon Elliott’s rising star has captured the imagination this season with two stunning victories over State Man, including a remarkable 30-length demolition at Leopardstown.
Her emergence represents one of the most exciting developments on the road to Prestbury Park, though uncertainty surrounds her Festival target.
The Champion Hurdle versus Mares’ Hurdle debate continues, with owner Michael O’Leary’s preference for the latter suggesting we might be denied a fascinating clash with Constitution Hill. Should she take her chance in the championship event, her progressive profile makes her a formidable challenger.
Lossiemouth (4/1)
A fall in the Irish Champion Hurdle has complicated Lossiemouth’s Festival preparations, with history suggesting such setbacks are difficult to overcome – only 4.5% of Festival winners since 2009 have prevailed after falling in their previous start.
Her Christmas Hurdle second to Constitution Hill offered glimpses of her potential, but connections appear to be favouring the Mares’ Hurdle option, so it will be interesting to see what happens with the six-year-old.
State Man (6/1)
Willie Mullins’ other stablemate and probably the better charge despite the odds, enters the fray having secured a third consecutive Irish Champion Hurdle, though his path to that success was eased by Lossiemouth’s departure.
Two defeats this term have taken some shine off his reputation, but his Leopardstown victory showed he retains the ability to capitalise on opportunities.
The reigning champion faces a formidable task in attempting to reverse form with Constitution Hill, but his consistency at the highest level demands respect. Few horses bring such a depth of Grade 1 experience to this assignment.
Burdett Road (16/1)
The improving youngster Burdett Road brings intriguing credentials to the table, including two victories from three Cheltenham appearances. While facing Constitution Hill represents a significant step up in class, his course form and progressive profile suggest he could outrun his odds.
Golden Ace (20/1)
A fascinating outsider in this championship event, Golden Ace would need to find extraordinary improvement to challenge the established stars. However, with favourites historically successful in only half of Champion Hurdle renewals, his presence reminds us that this great race can still produce surprises.