We have the pace guide, Timeform view, Daryl Jacob insight, plus key video replays for the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle on day three of the Cheltenham Festival.
Timeform Analyst's Verdict
Previous winners have an excellent record in this and last year's decisive victor BOB OLINGER looks the value call ahead of 2024 winner Teahupoo, who was unable to match the selection's turn of foot when runner-up 12 months ago. This does look a deep renewal, however, with progressive trio Honesty Policy, Kabral du Mathan and Ma Shantou all on the shortlist.
Daryl Jacob Insight
With the ground drying and Thursday’s rain not likely to come in time, Teahupoo looks a vulnerable favourite in the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle.
He could be done for speed again like he was by owner-mate Bob Olinger last year and Henry de Bromhead’s 11-year-old is no back number despite his advancing years. It could also suit Kabral Du Mathan who will be ridden to get the trip and if he does stay he looks the most likely winner as he looks a class act.
However, in an open race I’d rather take an each-way swing on IMPOSE TOI for the in-form Nicky Henderson team.
This drying ground will suit him and he has form over Honesty Policy from Ascot, while I didn’t think he enjoyed the soft ground on Trials Day in the Cleeve behind Ma Shantou.
A 6lb pull at the weights can help him reverse that form as the nature of this race, without much pace, can suit him better.
Nico de Boinville will have him in the perfect position and at 12/1 he looks an each-way bet, especially given they’ll probably go a sedate gallop.
I can't see any pace horses in there, it’s unlikely to be run at a gallop, and the proper stayers could be vulnerable.
That makes Kabral Du Mathan the one to beat, but I’ll have a pop on Impose Toi each-way.
Timeform Pace Guide
Pace Forecast: Even
Specific Pace Hint: Normally at this trip here those that race towards the rear are usually the ones to concentrate on but looking at the pace forecast BOB OLINGER (IRE) might not get the run of race whereas BALLYBURN (IRE) probably will.
Individual Price Hint: BOB OLINGER (IRE) was beaten last time out when trading at 50% or less of his starting Betfair SP.
Key Video Form
TEAHUPOO - Leopardstown 28/12/2025
IMPOSE TOI, HONESTY POLICY - Ascot 20/12/2025
KABRAL DU MATHAN - Cheltenham 01/01/2026
MA SHANTOU, IMPOSE TOI - Cheltenham 24/01/2026
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