TEAPHOO ON TRACK FOR CHELTENHAM-PUNCHESTOWN FESTIVAL DOUBLE

He is the favourite to achieve what no horse has since Anzum

Gordon Elliott is confident in Teahupoo's development as a stayer, emphasising that the horse is much more mature than when he finished fourth in the same race last year.

Since then, Teahupoo has impressively won the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham, showcasing his dominance in a field that may not be the strongest in recent years.

His performance in March solidified his status as the top stayer, and now he is the favourite to achieve what no horse has since Anzum in 1999 - win at both Cheltenham and Punchestown.

Despite having never secured a victory at Punchestown, suffering defeats in his previous attempts, Elliott dismisses any suggestions that Teahupoo has an aversion to the venue. The seasoned trainer believes that Teahupoo’s past performances at the track aren't indicative of any dislike but rather a part of his growth journey towards peak form.

He said:

"Teahupoo did what we hoped he would do at Cheltenham. We thought he was one of our best chances of the week and he proved us right. He did everything right in the race and stayed it out well. 

"He's more mature now and has grown up a lot over the last year or so. He's got a touch of class and hopefully the same Teahupoo who showed up at Cheltenham will show up here. If he does, he should take a bit of beating. We skipped Aintree to give him a bit more time and wait for this and he seems in great form."