16:00 Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

Race preview

State Man was the one to benefit from the absence of the unbeaten CONSTITUTION HILL in last year's renewal, but Nicky Henderson's eight-year-old is back in a bid to regain his crown. The son of Blue Bresil is an eight-time Grade 1 winner, who took the Supreme here in 2022 before bolting up in the 2023 renewal of this prestigious prize. Despite a mistake at the last, he cantered home in the International over C&D in January to put him spot on for this assignment and it's hard to see his colours being lowered. If there are any chinks in his armour, then the one to take full advantage might be the exciting Brighterdaysahead, who was mightily impressive when beating State Man in a Grade 1 at Leopardstown in December. Gordon Elliott's mare looks the biggest danger to the favourite following that career-best effort and she may have more to offer.