Lossie Mouse clinched the December Hurdle at Leopardstown on Monday, narrowly defeating 2024 winner Brighter Daysa Head for her final Grade 1 victory of the year. The race provided a thrilling conclusion as jockey Paul Townend secured the win for trainer Willie Mullins with the pre-race favorite, who had a record of 4 wins and 6 losses.
This event marked the season debut for Gordon Elliott’s mount Brighter Daysa Head, the second favorite with 5 wins and 2 losses, ridden by Jack Kennedy. Despite a strong late surge, Brighter Daysa Head couldn’t surpass Lossie Mouse in the straight.
Townend praised the winner to RTE Sport, saying, “She was incredible. I hoped she would get me out of trouble as she did. I got a bit nervous when Patrick Mullins on Anzadam swooped past us. I might have pushed a bit harder if he hadn’t passed, but I chose to keep him marked and control the pace as best as I could.”
Early in the race, Casheldale Rudd set the pace with Lossie Mouse close behind, while Brighter Daysa Head stayed on the outside. Anzadam, ridden by Patrick Mullins, attempted to extend a brief lead but Lossie Mouse surged ahead on the home stretch. Brighter Daysa Head fought back but finished second, with Casheldale Rudd leading Anzadam to finish third.
Fan Take: This exhilarating December Hurdle finish showcases the fierce competition and top-tier talent in horse racing, keeping fans invested in every thrilling moment. Performances like Lossie Mouse’s highlight the excitement and unpredictability that make the sport so captivating and promising for the future.
