Gordon Elliott is sticking to a proven approach as he prepares Teahupoo to defend his top honours this season. The seven-year-old hurdler is set to begin his campaign with a third consecutive tilt at the Bar One Racing Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in December, replicating the successful route that led to standout victories last season.
Teahupoo’s Path to Glory
Last term, Teahupoo shone brightly, securing the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and dominating the same division at Punchestown. Speaking ahead of the Bar One Fairyhouse Winter Festival, Elliott confirmed the plan to repeat the Grade One treble:
“He’s in great form. He’s not fancy at home—he just does what he has to do. We’ve got it in our heads to follow the same route as last year: Fairyhouse, Cheltenham, and back to Punchestown.”
Brighterdaysahead’s Versatile Options
Elliott’s talented Brighterdaysahead, fresh off a Down Royal victory, also has big targets ahead, including the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham. Although there was consideration of transitioning her to fences, owner Michael O’Leary opted to keep the five-year-old over hurdles for now.
“She’s in the Morgiana and Hatton’s Grace, but no decision has been made yet. She’s come out of Down Royal really well. We toyed with going chasing, but Michael decided to stay hurdling. She’s young and has plenty of time ahead.”
Brighterdaysahead’s adaptability makes her a formidable contender regardless of distance:
“Good horses win over any trip, so going over two or three miles wouldn’t bother me,” said Elliott.
Gerri Colombe Targets a Comeback
Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up Gerri Colombe, who disappointed with a third-place finish in the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal, is being set for the Savills Chase as Elliott looks to rekindle his form:
“I was disappointed with him. He didn’t travel or jump well and looked beaten early. We’ve found a few things to address, and we’ll iron them out.”
Cheltenham at the Heart of Elliott’s Plans
Elliott remains laser-focused on Cheltenham Festival success, which he sees as the pinnacle of the sport:
“When you buy a horse, Cheltenham is where you want to be. People debate expanding Cheltenham, but if it ran for 10 days, I’d be there for all 10!”
With Teahupoo, Brighterdaysahead, and Gerri Colombe all gearing up for major campaigns, Elliott’s Cullentra House yard is primed for a season filled with high stakes and even higher expectations.