Cheltenham Competition 2023: Fairytale ending as Honeysuckle wins Mares’ Hurdle in ultimate race

The 2-time Champion Hurdle winner teamed up with Rachael Blackmore for one final experience, seeking to make it 4 from 4 at Prestbury Park, and did simply that after a ultimate push up the hill to get previous Love Envoi.

It was a fairytale ending to a outstanding profession, and an emotional Blackmore paid tribute to Jack de Bromhead in her post-race interview. The 13-year-old, son of Honeysuckle coach Henry, died after a fall in a race final 12 months.

“All of us want a really particular child might be right here right now however he’s wanting down on her,” Blackmore mentioned.

“As a jockey I’m so grateful, she’s simply phenomenal and been so vital for my profession. She’s only a credit score to anybody. An excellent day.”

It was De Bromhead’s first winner of the Competition, and there’ll absolutely not be a extra well-liked one all week. Honeysuckle was roared right into a packed enclosure, along with her coach punching the air in delight as he celebrated a an ideal finale.

“It’s the fairytale ending that doesn’t usually occur,” De Bromead instructed BBC.

“I’m so blissful for everybody. You dream of it however that is what she deserves. She is an unbelievable mare. She is so particular.

“I believe we’ve had a horrible 12 months with Jack however the assist everybody has given us we’re actually grateful for that.”

Proprietor Kenny Alexander added: “She’s not the best Champion Hurdler ever however she’s one of many bravest. She has guts and is extremely gifted.

“She needed to dig deep right now. I’m actually blissful for Henry and his household.”