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Where does Lossiemouth line up at the Cheltenham Festival? The Champion Hurdle or the Mares’ Hurdle?
That is the question dominating early debate as the Festival approaches. Lossiemouth has won the last two runnings of the Mares’ Hurdle with authority and could bid for a third straight success.
With State Man sidelined through injury, there remains the option of stepping into the Champion Hurdle instead.
The Mares’ Hurdle is run over 2m4½f, a step up in distance from the two-mile championship contest.
A tweak to the Festival schedule has moved the race from Tuesday to Thursday, strengthening that afternoon’s card with three Grade 1 events.
Lossiemouth heads the market for the Mares’ Hurdle despite uncertainty over her target. Her record in the race speaks for itself and she sets the standard if lining up.
Wodhooh, trained by Gordon Elliott, is next in the non runner no bet lists after winning nine of her 10 starts over hurdles. She brings a consistent profile into the season and shapes as a leading contender should the favourite head elsewhere.
Brighterdaysahead is also prominent in the early betting after defeating Lossiemouth in the Irish Champion Hurdle. She too holds the option of the Champion Hurdle, leaving the Mares’ Hurdle picture dependent on final decisions from leading connections.
Mares’ Hurdle 2026 date
The Mares’ Hurdle takes place at Cheltenham on Thursday, 12 March 2026.
Mares’ Hurdle 2026 start time
The race is scheduled for 14:40.
How to watch the Mares’ Hurdle 2026
The Mares Hurdle race will be shown live on Bet365 . It will also be broadcast on ITV1.
Mares’ Hurdle 2026 entries
The following 22 horses currently hold entries ahead of confirmations and final declarations:
Baby Kate
Brighterdaysahead
Dream On Baby
Feet Of A Dancer
Golden Ace
Jade De Grugy
Jetara
Kargese
Kateira
La Pinsonniere
Lavida Adiva
Listentoyourheart
Lossiemouth
Murcia
Nurse Susan
Park Princess
Siog Geal
Sotchi
Sunset Marquesa
Take No Chances
That’ll Do Moss
Wodhooh
Day Three – Thursday, 12 March
| Time | Race |
|---|---|
| 13:20 | Mares Novices Hurdle |
| 14:00 | Jack Richards Novices Limited Handicap Chase |
| 14:40 | Mares Hurdle |
| 15:20 | Stayers Hurdle |
| 16:00 | Ryanair Chase |
| 16:40 | Pertemps Network Final |
| 17:20 | Kim Muir |