5.25 2m. 6 Declared. Paddy Power Champion H'dle (Grade 1) of €300,000.00 4-y-o plus
1st - €180,000.00 2nd - €60,000.00 3rd - €30,000.00 4th - €15,000.00 5th - €9,000.00 6th - €6,000.00
FormscanBy Michael Graham - STATE MAN is very hard to get away from in this field, but is priced accordingly. He couldn't land a blow on the imperious Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, but did come home in a clear second. His record prior to that reverse was excellent as he accumulated four Grade 1 victories in a row. He is ground versatile. His stablemate, Sharjah, is still a very solid operator. He was placed at both the Cheltenham and Aintree festivals and is likely to give Patrick Mullins another good spin. Zanahiyr finished third in the Champion Hurdle and occupied the same berth in the Aintree Hurdle. He could land another good cheque. Vauban chased home State Man in Grade 1 company at Leopardstown in December and February. He weakened in fourth in the Champion Hurdle, but has plenty of ability.
A hurdle for four years old and upwardsWeights - 4-y-o 11st 4lbs 5-y-o and up 11st 12lbs Mares allowed 7lbs