Bookmakers faced a formidable challenge as Willie Mullins unleashed a series of victories on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival.
The Irish trainer's success has left them wary of further blows. Gaelic Warrior set the pace for Mullins and jockey Paul Townend, winning the My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase as a well-supported 2-1 favourite.
The partnership continued their winning streak with State Man triumphing in the Unibet Champion Hurdle and Lossiemouth securing victory in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, both horses heavily backed by punters. Coral's David Stevens remarked on Mullins's swift success, noting Gaelic Warrior's dominant performance and the subsequent triumphs of State Man and Lossiemouth as favourites.
BoyleSports' Lawrence Lyons acknowledged the tough day for bookmakers, with Mullins's victories leaving punters in celebratory spirits. The lack of surprises in other races further compounded the bookies' woes. Notable performances included Slade Steel winning the opening Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Lark In The Mornin claiming victory in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle at 9-1.
Paddy Power narrowly avoided a substantial payout when Corbetts Cross emerged victorious in the Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase. The day ended on a high note for a shrewd punter from Essex, who walked away with £50,000 after selecting the first six winners in an accumulator.
Looking ahead, the focus shifts to future races, with expectations building for next year's Champion Hurdle. William Hill's Lee Phelps speculated on potential matchups, suggesting Lossiemouth could pose a challenge to State Man and current favourite Constitution Hill.
Lossiemouth's impressive performance has raised the mare's odds to 7-2 for the next renewal, setting the stage for an exciting future in the world of horse racing.