With plenty of in-form performers across the 26-horse field, the County Handicap Hurdle could well be the one to put your money on at Cheltenham Racecourse today.
Multiple contenders are well up for it as the relatively young field battles for a victory under the bright lights of Prestbury.
State Man
The race favourite may be inexperienced, but he certainly makes up for it in potential and results.
Paul Townend rides as the Willie Mullins trained gelding seeks his first win at Cheltenham, with the added momentum of a victory at Limerick last month behind him.
West Cork
The Skelton’s will be hoping they can at last claim that elusive maiden victory at this year’s festival, with West Cork having a decent shot following an impressive Greatwood Hurdle win at Cheltenham in November.
Britain’s best shot in this race, well worth a place bet today.
Surprise Package
This gelding will be hoping to be anything but his name today, as Kevin Sexton will hope to ride him first to the post.
Peter Fahey’s horse tasted success as recently as last weekend, winning at Sandown Park and continuing his form after Imperial Cup success.
Top Bandit
If you are a big believer in form, Top Bandit may be your pick with three consecutive wins to his name, the first of which he claimed at Cheltenham back in October.
Davy Russell will jockey the six-year-old as Gordon Elliott strives for his third win at this year’s festival.
Colonel Mustard
Last but not least is Colonel Mustard, who sits second according to the bookies having at least placed in his last five, with his current run of form including a win in Galway in October.
Conor Orr rides the Lorna Fowler trained horse who will be hoping to get a maiden Cheltenham victory for one of the underdog stables of the festival.
