David Nicholson Mares Hurdle Results

The Mares race is always an exciting one and all the talk before the off was about Quevega who was a hot favourite to win the race for a third successive year and continue a great for Ruby Walsh and Willie Mullins. The early pace setter was Silver Gypsy who seemed to be happy at the head of the field alongside Banjaxed Girl who enjoys setting a good clip, and she remained in front for much of the early stages. The well backed Sparky May managed to stay upright despite a bad mistake early on while Quevega was held up towards the back of the field in the early stages.

Spark May made a striking move to the front at the top of the hill to take the lead in fine fashion but Quevega was also moving through the field in ominous fashion with Ruby Walsh motionless. Sparky May ran her heart out but in the end she had no answer to Quevega who simply cruised past her to claim a stunning victory without coming off the bridle to win the race for a third successive year. It really was a brilliant performance from Quevega and in the end she is too good for this field and she must be considered for the World Hurdle or the Champion Hurdle next season if she maintains her form. A special mention should go to Sparky May who ran a game race but in the end she was out of her league against Quevega who is a Cheltenham legend.

16:40 David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle (Grade 2) (Class 1, 2m 4f)
1. Quevega (R Walsh) 5/6F
2. Sparky May (K Burke) 4/1
3. Ocean Transit (D Bass) 50/1
14 Ran

David Nicholson Mares Hurdle Results

• David Nicholson Mares Hurdle 2011
• David Nicholson Mares Hurdle 2010
• David Nicholson Mares Hurdle 2009
• David Nicholson Mares Hurdle 2008

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