All change! Apple’s Jade cut to 15/8 for shock Champion Hurdle win

Matt Chapman summed it up best on Saturday. No-one will remember a Mares’ Hurdle winner in 20 years’ time. So it’s news to our ears that Apple’s Jade could go for the Champion Hurdle.

.@MCYeeehaaa has a message for Michael O’Leary.

He wants Apple’s Jade to run in the Champion Hurdle at @CheltenhamRaces

? “Do it for the People!”

Watch LIVE on @ITV4 pic.twitter.com/j8Mo03Vrm7

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) February 2, 2019

Connections have been tight-lipped over a possible match-up with Buveur D’Air for some time.

But after Gordon Elliott’s charge demolished the field over 2m at Leopardstown on Saturday, it now looks as though a face-off could be on.

The Irish trainer hinted that his wonder-mare is likely to run in the seasonal-highlight for hurdlers, although a final decision will lie with owner Michael O’Leary.

The champion remains the 13/8 favourite to rack up a hat-trick of Champion Hurdle successes, with Apple’s Jade close behind at 15/8.

Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “The news that Apple’s Jade is likely to target the Champion Hurdle is music to punters’ ears. We are seeing strong support for her now, and with Non Runner No Bet on offer, punters have that safety net in place in case she goes elsewhere.”

“Buveur D’Air is still our favourite, but it would be no surprise if Apple’s Jade replaced him”, McGeady continued.

Ladbrokes Latest Betting

**Champion Hurdle (NRNB)

Buveur D’Air – 13/8

Apple’s Jade – 15/8

Laurina – 7/2

Melon – 7/1

Sharjah – 9/1

Verdana Blue – 10/1

Samcro – 12/1

14/1 bar

Click here for the latest Champion Hurdle odds

All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication