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State Man, a classy hurdler, reinforced his status as a leading contender
for the Irish Champion Hurdle with a smooth victory in the Matheson Hurdle
at Leopardstown. The win marked his seventh in Grade One races over hurdles
out of eight starts. Despite his prowess, he remains a 4-1 chance to avenge
his only top-level defeat against the formidable Constitution Hill at the
Champion Hurdle in Cheltenham in March.
Constitution Hill's exceptional talent was evident last year when he
defeated State Man at the Festival meeting. State Man's recent win against
Impaire Et Passe showcased his form, prompting bookmakers to adjust the odds
for the upcoming Champion Hurdle. Constitution Hill is now priced at 4-11,
while State Man is generally available at 4-1.
Trainer Willie Mullins expressed satisfaction with State Man's performance,
highlighting his impressive gears. Mullins hopes State Man will be a strong
contender at the Festival, providing competition for Constitution Hill.
Mullins enjoyed further success at Leopardstown, securing victories with
Ballyburn and Grangeclare West. Ballyburn's dominant win in the maiden
hurdle led to favorable odds for the Ballymore Novice Hurdle. Grangeclare
West, an expensive acquisition, won the Neville Hotels Novice Chase,
positioning himself as a leading contender for the Brown Advisory Novice
Chase.
In other racing news, Nico de Boinville, stable jockey for trainer Nicky
Henderson, suffered a suspected collarbone injury in a fall at Doncaster.
James Bowen is set to replace De Boinville on significant runners at
Newbury.
Looking ahead to Newbury, Captain Teague, trained by Paul Nicholls, is a
strong contender in the Challow Hurdle. Nicholls has a remarkable record in
the Challow, having saddled the last three winners, including top-class
chasers Bravemansgame and Stage Star.