The Stayers’ Hurdle often rewards proven stamina and experience around Cheltenham, but this year’s renewal looks slightly different. There is no obvious front-runner and the race shape suggests a steady early tempo, meaning positioning and a turn of foot could prove just as important as raw staying power.
The market is headed by Teahupoo, the reigning 2024 winner and a horse who has dominated the staying hurdle division over the past couple of seasons. Gordon Elliott’s gelding arrives unbeaten this season after wins in the Hatton’s Grace and the Christmas Hurdle. On ratings he is the best horse in the race and his Cheltenham record is rock solid. The only slight query is tactical – Teahupoo is at his most effective when the race becomes a proper stamina test, and a slower early pace could reduce that advantage.
Last year’s winner Bob Olinger is impossible to dismiss. His Cheltenham record reads four runs, four wins, including this race twelve months ago. His comeback second to Teahupoo at Leopardstown was encouraging after a long break and suggests he still retains plenty of ability. However, at eleven years old he may just be vulnerable to younger legs in a race that looks particularly competitive this year.
The progressive angle comes from Honesty Policy and Kabral Du Mathan. Honesty Policy shaped very well when third in the Long Walk at Ascot and looks a horse who will relish three miles. Kabral Du Mathan has improved dramatically since joining Dan Skelton and travelled like a high-class performer when winning the Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham. The unknown with him is the trip. All his best form has been at shorter distances and this will test his stamina fully.
One horse who arrives with strong course form and proven stamina is Ma Shantou. Emma Lavelle’s seven-year-old has improved rapidly this season and produced a career-best effort when winning the Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham, beating Impose Toi decisively. He travelled strongly, took the lead smoothly turning for home and powered clear up the hill – exactly the type of performance that often translates well to this race.
With the likely pace scenario favouring horses who travel well and quicken rather than pure grinders, Ma Shantou’s profile is particularly appealing. He is progressive, proven over the trip and clearly thrives on the Cheltenham track.
Selection: Ma Shantou
He may still be improving and his Cleeve Hurdle win suggests he is peaking at the right time. If the race develops tactically, his ability to travel and quicken could prove decisive.
Is the selection bombproof?
So-so. Teahupoo remains the benchmark in the division, but Ma Shantou looks the most interesting winning angle in what is a very competitive Stayers’ Hurdle. 🏇