Mares’ Hurdle Tips 2026 – Cheltenham 2:40 Preview & Best Bets

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⭐ Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle Tips

WIN: Wodhooh
MAIN DANGER: Jade De Grugy
VALUE BET: Feet Of A Dancer
OUTSIDER: Take No Chances

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Race Overview – Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (2:40 Cheltenham)

The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, registered as the David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle, is the championship race for mares over hurdles at the Cheltenham Festival.

Run over 2m4½f on the New Course, the race often features a small but high-quality field with several proven Grade 1 performers.

The 2026 renewal looks like a fascinating clash between Wodhooh, an exceptionally consistent mare with an outstanding record over hurdles, and Jade De Grugy, a dual Grade 1 winner who finished runner-up in this race last year.

With stamina, tactical positioning and strong finishing ability all crucial around Cheltenham, the contest could produce another thrilling finish.

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⭐ Main Selection – Wodhooh

Wodhooh sets a very high standard and looks the mare to beat.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old boasts an exceptional record of 9 wins from 10 starts over hurdles, including two victories over this course and distance.

She has already won two Graded races this season and continues to show remarkable consistency and improvement.

Her ability to travel strongly through her races before finishing powerfully up the Cheltenham hill makes her extremely dangerous in a contest like this.

If she performs to the level she has shown throughout the season, she could prove very difficult to beat.

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⚠️ Main Danger – Jade De Grugy

The biggest threat could come from Jade De Grugy, who has already shown she belongs at the highest level.

The Willie Mullins-trained mare finished second in this race last year and has since added further top-class form to her record.

She has won two Grade 1 hurdle races and most recently scored over fences in a Grade 2 contest, proving her versatility and class.

With Paul Townend in the saddle and her proven Cheltenham form, Jade De Grugy is certain to be a major contender once again.

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💰 Value Bet – Feet Of A Dancer

For those looking for an each-way option, Feet Of A Dancer looks interesting at bigger odds.

The Paul Nolan-trained mare has enjoyed an excellent season, winning both a Listed race and a Grade 2 contest.

Although she was beaten by Wodhooh earlier this season at Leopardstown, she still produced a respectable performance and remains a progressive mare.

If she can take another step forward, she could easily hit the frame.

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🐎 Dark Horse – Take No Chances

Take No Chances is another mare capable of running well at a price.

The Dan Skelton-trained eight-year-old finished third behind Lossiemouth in this race last year and has continued to perform consistently in strong company this season.

She may not possess the same level of class as the market leaders, but her experience and proven ability at Cheltenham could help her outrun her odds.

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Other Contenders

Dream On Baby
A consistent performer who often runs well but may struggle to match the top two on ratings.

Jetara
Finished fourth in this race last year but has not quite matched that level of form this season.

Sunset Marquesa
Useful mare but appears to have plenty to find against these rivals.

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Predicted Finishing Order

1. Wodhooh
2. Jade De Grugy
3. Feet Of A Dancer
4. Take No Chances

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Final Verdict

The Mares’ Hurdle looks like a fascinating clash between two top-class mares.

While Jade De Grugy brings strong Grade 1 credentials and proven Cheltenham form, Wodhooh arrives with an outstanding record and two course-and-distance wins.

If she reproduces her best form, Wodhooh looks capable of landing this prestigious Grade 1 contest at 2:40 Cheltenham.

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Best Bets Summary

WIN: Wodhooh
EACH WAY: Feet Of A Dancer
DANGER: Jade De Grugy
OUTSIDER: Take No Chances

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