Stayers’ Hurdle Tips 2026 – Cheltenham 3:20 Preview & Best Bets

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⭐ Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle Tips

WIN: Honesty Policy
MAIN DANGER: Ma Shantou
VALUE BET: Kabral Du Mathan
OUTSIDER: Bob Olinger

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Race Overview – Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (3:20 Cheltenham)

The Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle is the premier staying hurdle race of the Cheltenham Festival, run over 3 miles on the New Course.

This Grade 1 contest regularly produces a fascinating mix of established champions and progressive stayers, with stamina and tactical patience essential to success up the demanding Cheltenham hill.

The 2026 renewal features several major contenders including Teahupoo, a previous winner of the race, the progressive Ma Shantou, and the lightly raced Honesty Policy, who could still have significant improvement to come.

With several leading yards represented, the race promises to be one of the most competitive staying hurdles in recent years.

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⭐ Main Selection – Honesty Policy

Honesty Policy is an extremely exciting staying hurdler who could be ready to reach the top of the division.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old has raced only sparingly but has shown considerable promise, finishing placed in strong company last season before continuing his progress this term.

His profile suggests a horse still improving and capable of taking a major step forward over staying trips.

With Mark Walsh in the saddle and further improvement likely, Honesty Policy could deliver on the promise he has shown and land his first Cheltenham Festival success.

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⚠️ Main Danger – Ma Shantou

Ma Shantou looks a serious threat after a hugely impressive performance in the Grade 2 Cleeve Hurdle over this course and distance.

The Emma Lavelle-trained seven-year-old powered clear to win that race by seven lengths, demonstrating both stamina and strong finishing ability.

His record at Cheltenham is particularly encouraging and the step up into championship company may not be beyond him if he continues his upward trajectory.

With Harry Cobden booked for the ride, Ma Shantou should go very close.

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💰 Value Bet – Kabral Du Mathan

Kabral Du Mathan offers plenty of appeal at a bigger price.

The Dan Skelton-trained six-year-old impressed when powering clear in the Grade 2 Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham, showing a strong turn of foot and plenty of stamina.

This race represents a significant step up in distance to three miles, but his running style suggests the extra trip could suit.

If he stays the distance strongly, he could easily outrun his odds.

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🐎 Dark Horse – Bob Olinger

Veteran Bob Olinger cannot be dismissed given his outstanding record at Cheltenham.

The Henry De Bromhead-trained gelding won this race last year and has consistently performed well at the Festival throughout his career.

Although now 11 years old, his course record remains exceptional and he has the experience to remain competitive at this level.

If the race becomes a true test of stamina, Bob Olinger could once again be involved in the finish.

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Other Contenders

Teahupoo
A previous winner of the Stayers’ Hurdle and one of the classiest horses in the field. A major contender once again.

Ballyburn
Talented but may find the strongest stayers too powerful over this distance.

Impose Toi
Winner of the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle earlier in the season and capable of better than his recent effort in the Cleeve.

Home By The Lee
Grade 2 winner earlier in the year but has struggled to match the best at Grade 1 level recently.

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Predicted Finishing Order

1. Honesty Policy
2. Ma Shantou
3. Kabral Du Mathan
4. Bob Olinger

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Final Verdict

The 2026 Stayers’ Hurdle looks an open renewal with several legitimate contenders.

While Teahupoo and Bob Olinger bring strong established form, the race may favour an improving horse.

Honesty Policy fits that profile perfectly and could take a significant step forward over this demanding three-mile trip.

If he continues his upward progression, Honesty Policy could emerge as the new star of the staying hurdle division.

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Best Bets Summary

WIN: Honesty Policy
EACH WAY: Kabral Du Mathan
DANGER: Ma Shantou
OUTSIDER: Bob Olinger

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