Prolific racer Gale Mahler is set to pursue her seventh consecutive victory in the Sky Bet Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham on Friday. Trained by Adrian Keatley, the talented mare has demonstrated remarkable progress since her debut, where she finished fourth at Sedgefield in March. Following that, she secured back-to-back wins in bumpers at Southwell and Kelso, in addition to four consecutive triumphs over hurdles.
Gale Mahler last showcased her skills at the Galway Festival in late July, where she convincingly won a Listed race. Despite the break from competitive action, Keatley reports she has returned in excellent condition for the Cheltenham season opener. “She came back in good shape after her break, and we’re very optimistic about Friday,” he stated. “It would be wonderful to secure the win for her owner, Jimmy Fyffe, at Cheltenham.”
While the focus remains on Friday's race, Keatley hinted at future plans, mentioning a possible return for the November meeting.
In a highly competitive Grade Two line-up, Gale Mahler faces four other unbeaten hurdlers, including Brave Knight from Paul Nicholls and Dan Skelton’s Valgrand. Additionally, five horses will compete in the William Hill Top Price Guarantee Novices' Chase, featuring the likely favourite, Gavin Cromwell’s Path d’Oroux, alongside strong Irish contenders making the trip over. The day will culminate in the £100,000 squareintheair.com Handicap Chase, defending champion Dancing On My Own returns to assert his title.