Lossiemouth was handed the most significant form boost of the season on Thursday. The second, third, fourth and fifth renewed acquaintances in the 2m4f Aintree Hurdle just one month later. They finished first, second, third and fourth.
It paid a handsome compliment to the Champion Hurdle form, as well as confirming Brighterdaysahead as a consummate professional. She was best of the rest in this intriguing match-up, overcoming keenness for Jack Kennedy.
Always prominent, but taking up the running earlier than ideal, the challengers amassed in behind. All of her Champion Hurdle rivals travelled strongly enough into the race, with The New Lion in particularly close attendance.
A battle royale looked set fair until the final flight. The New Lion saw a wrong stride as Brighterdaysahead gained significant ground she would never relinquish. It was a second course and distance success for Brighterdaysahead after a novice Grade 1 victory in 2024.
Brighterdaysahead gamely claims fifth Grade 1
Cheltenham has proven an unfortunate obstacle for Brighterdaysahead. In three starts, her best finish proved to be this year’s Champion Hurdle second.
The Gigginstown mare has been a model of consistency elsewhere though. She is now a five-time Grade 1 winner in all, with two of those arriving this season. Any horse who wins an Irish Champion Hurdle and Aintree Hurdle in the same season is having a good campaign.
Jack Kennedy said as much when he was interviewed afterwards on ITV Racing.
“She is a great mare. She lost nothing in defeat in the Champion Hurdle. She got beaten by another superstar. It is lovely for her to come here and get the job done.
“Stepping up in trip, she was probably doing a little bit more than I wanted today but she is a strong stayer so I was happy to let her roll. She jumped great.
“She is incredibly quick and she is a very slick hurdler for a very big mare. She can make up plenty of ground at a hurdle.”
Gordon Elliott was also in an effusive mood afterwards. Brighterdaysahead was completing a double for the yard after Mange Tout had won the opening race of the meeting.
Elliott added “she’s a champion. This is probably her trip. She was awesome.
“I was nervous but it was easy to watch. Jack was brilliant on her.”
No indication was given to another target this season. Punchestown, and a potential rematch with Lossiemouth, may await, though chasing may now be the aim for 2026/27.