Lossiemouth’s fall in the Irish Champion Hurdle on Sunday was the day’s most dramatic moment, though the outcome was far from as bleak as it first appeared. The odds-on favorite, trained by Willie Mullins, crashed out four from home in the feature race, nearly bringing down her stablemate, State Man, who eventually triumphed. Remarkably, Lossiemouth bounced back to her feet after the fall, seemingly unharmed, which was a relief to all present. Prior to her departure, the race had been shaping up as an exciting duel between Lossiemouth and State Man, with both horses racing fluently and far ahead of the remaining trio of rivals.
With Lossiemouth’s fall, State Man was left to finish alone, securing victory without much contest. The race had initially been billed as a significant step in deciding whether Lossiemouth would challenge Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham next month or opt for a seemingly simpler task in the Mares’ Hurdle on the same day. Until the fall, Lossiemouth had looked enthusiastic, displaying more vigor than when she had finished behind Constitution Hill in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. Mullins, though, remained optimistic about her Champion Hurdle prospects, stating that the plan had always been for her to race in the Champion Hurdle, unless a change of heart occurred from her owner, Rich Ricci.
Mullins was also encouraged by State Man’s performance, particularly after a disappointing defeat to Brighterdaysahead in a Grade One at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting. Although State Man was not pushed to his limits, Mullins suggested that he appeared closer to his best form, though he acknowledged the uncertainty around just how good the horse truly is, as he often only does what is required. Mullins expressed disappointment that the anticipated thrilling showdown between Lossiemouth and State Man was cut short by the fall, depriving the public and connections of witnessing a definitive result.
State Man’s victory rounded off a Grade One treble for Mullins, with two other wins also contributing to his success on the day. Ballyburn, another Mullins charge, triumphed in the two-mile-six novice chase, although it was not as commanding a performance as many had hoped. Despite taking some time to get past the runner-up, Croke Park, Ballyburn won by five lengths, leaving some to question whether he would be the favorite for the three-mile Brown Advisory Novice Chase at Cheltenham. At odds of around 2-1, Ballyburn remains the market leader for that contest, but his lack of an impressive step forward might prompt a larger price on the day.
In contrast, Kopek Des Bordes, who was also part of Mullins’ triumphant day, put in an outstanding performance in the Tattersalls Ireland Novice Hurdle over two miles. After a riderless horse joined the race and inadvertently pushed Kopek Des Bordes several lengths clear, the favorite appeared vulnerable to a challenge in the straight. However, as the field turned for home, jockey Paul Townend remained still in the saddle, while his rivals worked hard to close the gap. Despite the pressure, Kopek Des Bordes extended his lead, finishing 13 lengths ahead of the field without ever being asked a serious question. His hurdling was notably improved compared to his Christmas debut, and his dominant victory saw his odds for the Supreme Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham slashed from 6-1 to around 7-4.
Mullins expressed his preference for having a short-priced favorite for such races, acknowledging the added pressure but also the better chance of success. Townend’s handling of Kopek Des Bordes was a key factor in the victory, as he positioned the horse well before the loose horse created some chaos. Although Townend had to briefly pull Kopek Des Bordes back, the horse responded with a superb jump at the second-last, further confirming his potential. This remarkable performance leaves Mullins with high hopes for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival, where he will field a strong team of contenders across multiple events.
