Assessing the last five winners of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

At the forefront of the Cheltenham Festival lies the electrifying Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, where the thunderous roar of the crowd ignites the senses as young talents from both the United Kingdom and Ireland embark on a pulsating two-mile journey around the revered Old Course.

In the fray of this year’s Supreme Novices Hurdle 2024, the spotlight shines brightly on contenders emerging from the renowned Closutton stables of Willie Mullins in County Carlow.

With an illustrious record of seven victories in this prestigious event, Mullins’ charges command attention in the Cheltenham betting — often paving the way for illustrious careers.

A quick delve into the history of this Grade 1 content reveals a distinguished roll of honour. So, join us as we reminisce about the last five triumphant horses in the curtain-raiser of the Cheltenham Festival.

Klassical Dream – 2019

Klassical Dream embarked on a stellar journey under Mullins’ tutelage, transitioning seamlessly from Mile Gallorini’s yard in France to clinch consecutive victories at Leopardstown — including a Grade 1 Novice Hurdle.

Despite entering the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle as a 6/1 underdog, Klassical Dream defied the odds — galloping to victory by over four lengths ahead of the 28/1 outsider Thomas Darby.

Since then, Klassical Dream has amassed an impressive resume — triumphing in multiple Grade 1s to build an impressive CV.

Shishkin – 2020

Shishkin’s hurdling career commenced with a stumble, recovering from a fall on his debut at Newbury in December 2019 to secure a resounding victory at the same venue the following month.

The Jessica Donnelly-owned sensation then stamped his authority with a commanding 11-length win at Huntingdon, setting the stage for his triumph in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle — where he edged past the competition by a mere head.

Despite fluctuations in form, Shishkin has since claimed victory in various graded contests — including the Arkle, the Clarence House Chase, and the Aintree Bowl.

Appreciate It – 2021

In 2021, Mullins reclaimed glory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle with Appreciate It — the odds-on favourite in the Cheltenham tips delivering a dominant performance.

Having transitioned effortlessly from the 2020 Cheltenham Champion Bumper to hurdles, Appreciate It’s three consecutive wins, including back-to-back Grade 1 victories at Leopardstown, solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with.

With a staggering 24-length victory over Ballyadam, Appreciate It left no doubt about his prowess — although subsequent performances failed to match the initial heights.

Constitution Hill – 2022

This edition of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle witnessed the emergence of a National Hunt racing icon in Constitution Hill.

Trained by Henderson, the formidable thoroughbred showcased unparalleled dominance — securing victories by 14 and 12 lengths in his first two starts before delivering a jaw-dropping performance in the Supreme.

Despite facing stiff competition as the joint-favourite, Constitution Hill soared to a commanding 22-length victory from stablemate Jonbon after Dysart Dynamo’s unfortunate exit.

Since then, Constitution Hill has continued his reign of supremacy — clinching five consecutive Grade 1 victories. However, he will miss this year’s Cheltenham Festival due to illness.

Marine National – 2023

Marine Nationale arrived at Prestbury Park with an impressive track record, boasting victories in two Bumpers, a Maiden Hurdle, and the Grade 1 Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Despite entering the fray as the third favourite, Marine Nationale showcased his mettle — surging to victory by over three lengths ahead of the pre-race market leader, Facile Vega.

While his recent performance in the Irish Arkle may have left fans wanting more, Marine Nationale remains a contender worth considering for the upcoming Arkle at Cheltenham.