Barry Connell, the owner and trainer of William Manny, believes that the recent shifts in the Champion Hurdle betting market support the choice to keep the horse competing over smaller obstacles. Connell had initially considered targeting a second-place finisher in the Supreme Novice Hurdle, such as Cheltenham winner Kopec Des Bordes.
However, doubts surrounding his chances in the Champion Hurdle prompted Connell to take a different approach. A minor setback prevented William Manny from running against the current Cheltenham favorite Lossiemouth in the Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown.
“There were uncertainties for many contenders at the start of the season, which is likely why we opted for this route,” Connell explained. “We thought there might be an opportunity in this area, but we needed to resolve some questions first. Constitution Hill is now facing issues since the Statesman suffered a leg injury, but with new competitors emerging from last year, it was tough to gauge the difference between New Lion, who narrowly beat Yellow Clay at Turner’s, and our performance in the Supreme Novice Hurdle.
The top three finishers at Newcastle all had ratings in the 150s and were fairly evenly matched. I believed New Lion might have had a clearer edge before he fell, but I’m uncertain if he would have won, and his ratings likely wouldn’t have improved.”
Connell added, “Currently, Lossiemouth appears to be the leading contender, with her strongest performances over two and a half miles, though she has also run well at two miles, which is why she’s the favorite. There are now discussions about Sir Gino possibly being redirected. It’s an open race at this point, and our young horses, like any newcomers, must improve. Missing the Morgiana due to a minor issue was disappointing, but William Manny is now preparing for the Leopardstown December Hurdle.”
He continued, “He might need this race as a warm-up since we missed the Morgiana, but then we have the Dublin Racing Festival and Cheltenham to look forward to. I’m confident in the decision to keep him hurdling; his past performance speaks for itself. He’s a fast horse.”
Fan Take: This development is significant for horse racing enthusiasts as it highlights the unpredictability and strategic decisions involved in preparing horses for major hurdles. William Manny’s progression and the shifting dynamics among top contenders could make this season especially exciting, offering fresh competition and thrilling races for fans.
