‘She had no excuse last year’ – Liam Bramall’s three Cheltenham favourites to avoid

The Cheltenham Festival really is the pinnacle of National Hunt racing and the the action is ferociously competitive as a result. Not all the favourites can win with that in mind so Liam Bramall has picked out three ante-post market leaders to avoid. Check out our free tips page for daily content and our ante-post Cheltenham tips are available now.

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Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Kopeck Des Bordes was very impressive at Leopardstown last time out but there’s no value at all his price. Clearly he’s learning on the job and is still a buzzy sort, which is a huge negative at Cheltenham. Willie Mullins’ gelding will simply have to settle better at Cheltenham and whilst there’s every chance he will, he’s worth opposing at the prices.

We like Workahead at the prices and whilst, he has only won a maiden, the form has been franked any number of times since. Henry de Bromhead knows how to get a horse ready for Cheltenham and he won this race last year with Slade Steel.

Workahead

Analysis

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Stayers’ Hurdle

Teahupoo comes here off the back of a defeat at the hands of Lossiemouth and there are more appealing runners at the prices. He won this in 2024 having had just one run beforehand but it’s probably more competitive this year and he might need the run somewhat.

Lucky Place looks like a solid alternative at around 8/1 and Nicky Henderson’s lightly raced gelding is improving at a rapid rate. He’ll need to prove his stamina for the trip but definitely shapes as if it won’t be an issue.

Lucky Place

Analysis

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Mares’ Chase

Dinoblue had no excuse when beaten in this race last year and it’s therefore very easy to take her on. Mullins’ mare has been a bit disappointing for most of the season and needs to prove she’s as effective over this trip.

Lucy Wadham’s Telepathique could be of interest at a bigger price. She’s clearly improving at a fast rate and although more is needed, further progress can’t be ruled out.

Telepathique

Analysis

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