The Brand-new Lion Team Counting down to 'Splitting ´ Cheltenham Feature
It could be an interesting afternoon for JP McManus at Cheltenham on Saturday - and of The New Lion are anticipating "a cracking race" when their Festival winner lines up for a Champion Hurdle gown practice session versus Sir Gino in the Unibet Hurdle.
Already the very first and 2nd favourites for the Festival's opening-day masterpiece, the duo are the star attractions on Trials day, with Dan Skelton's course winner stated to be in leading form as he tries to atone for his fall in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle in late November.
"Dan seems to be very delighted and we're eagerly anticipating Saturday, it will be a breaking race," said McManus' racing manager, Frank Berry.
"We'll understand a lot more about him after Saturday and you've got to be excited to see him out on a great day's racing.
"It will be a great race versus Sir Gino and I think we'll both learn a lot and see where we slot in. It's one to anticipate and hopefully he runs actually well."
The New Lion was purchased by McManus prior to winning the Turners Novices' Hurdle at last year's flagship conference and would give the famous owner a record-extending 10th Champion Hurdle if successful in the spring.
The New Lion ridden by Harry Skelton (left) wins the Turners Novices ´ Hurdle on day 2 of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse. Picture date: Wednesday March 12, 2025.
When asked if there is genuine hope The New Lion could become the first to bring the green and gold to splendor in the race because Epatante in 2020, Berry included: "He's got a bit to go to show he's at that stage yet and we'll keep dreaming and Saturday will inform us a lot more."
McManus and Nicky Henderson may be on opposing sides in the Unibet Hurdle, however look most likely to team up in the Pertemps Network Cleeve Hurdle where Long Walk hero Impose Toi will be out to add another triumph to a currently stellar project.
"I think it's the intent to run," included Berry.
"He lost his way a bit however is back in top type this year and has been liking the great ground.
"It was a good efficiency at Ascot in the Long Walk in what looked an excellent race on the day. Hopefully he can keep his great run of form going."