Willie Mullins has confirmed eight runners for the Turners Novices’ Hurdle, but in a typically twisted turn of Closutton events, market leader Mighty Park was not among them.
Mighty Park has developed into the ‘hype horse’ during the preview season, and was confirmed for the Supreme on Wednesday. Despite that, he still held his position as favourite for the Turners Novice Hurdle. He was initially confirmed on Thursday morning, but was taken out around 11am and not engaged prior to midday.
Another late switch could happen as Talk The Talk was also confirmed for the Turners’. Connections have been in the Supreme camp for some time, but the absence of Mighty Park could sway their decision.
No Drama This End returns as favourite
The news means No Drama This End will likely return to favouritism as Paul Nicholls looks to end his Turners drought. Nicholls had Hermes Allen a beaten favourite in 2023, who was also coming into it off a Challow success. 2021 Challow winner Stage Star also failed to fire, pulling up two out under Harry Cobden. The omission of Mighty Park boosts Nicholls chances once more, with part-owner Max McNeil looking for his inaugural Cheltenham success.
Grade 1 winner Skylight Hustle was confirmed as Gordon Elliott looks for his third edition of the race since 2018. Elliott also confirmed Grade 1 second Ballyfad, who may have the opportunity to reverse the form with Talk The Talk.
Grade 1 Nathaniel Lacy winner Doctor Steinberg was also a notable omission for Willie Mullins, unlike King Rasko Grey. The Galiway gelding now holds entries in the Supreme and the Turners, but the latter looks more likely. He was third to Talk The Talk and behind Ballyfad at Leopardstown, and it’ll be fascinating if they all reappear.
Nicky Henderson’s sole entrant Act Of Innocence was also confirmed, who has done little wrong this season. A Newbury winner on yard debut, he couldn’t quite give lumps of weight to Minella Yoga next time out. He was back on track in the Sidney Banks, a race Henderson won with Shishkin en-route to Supreme success.
Grade 1 winner I’ll Sort That was among the 33 runners confirmed, who appears to be flying under the radar. The Naas contest has thrown up several Turners clues of late, with Envoi Allen and Bob Olinger recording the double.
Last year’s Champion Bumper third Shuttle Diplomacy is confirmed too in what promises to be a thrilling renewal.