Irish Champion Hurdle: Honeysuckle and State Man meet at Leopardstown

“We’ll be doing our best with State Man and Vauban, both ran crackers at Christmas. I keep saying he’s (Vauban) only five and he is, though it’s hard for those sort of horses to improve.

“Both of them have pleased me since and we’re looking forward to see if we can take on Kenny Alexander’s Honeysuckle. It’s going to be a very good race, anyhow.”

The Gordon Elliott duo of Pied Piper and Zanahiyr and Tom Mullins’ outsider Takarengo complete the list.

Only five remain in the Ladbrokes Dublin Chase over two miles, where Mullins’ Blue Lord is 4/11 to follow up his win at Christmas and cement his Champion Chase claims.

Sceau Royal, a rare British raider, Dunvegan, Gentleman De Mee and Fastorslow are also engaged.

A clash for the ages looks on the cards in the @Chanelle_Pharma Irish Champion Hurdle this Sunday!

🥊 Honeysuckle vs State Man

🔥 Vauban also threatens!

Who would be your pick?⤵️

— Leopardstown RC (@LeopardstownRC) January 31, 2023

There are nine left in the Tattersalls Ireland Novices Hurdle over two miles, in which Mullins has another enviable hand.

Facile Vega, Dark Raven, Gaelic Warrior and Il Etait Temps could all run for the champion trainer.

Elliott has American Mike and Irish Point to chose from while De Bromhead’s unbeaten Inthepocket, Joseph O’Brien’s one-time Derby favourite High Definition and Oliver McKiernan’s No Looking Back add further strength in depth.

The Ladbrokes Novice Chase over two miles and five furlongs has a competitive look to it with 13 left in.

Mullins holds another strong hand with El Fabiolo, Gaillard Du Mesnil, Glengouly, James Du Berlais and Kilcruit among his team, but Elliott should offer stern resistance with Gerri Colombe, Mighty Potter and Fil Dor still in.

Irish Champion Hurdle odds

11/10 State Man

7/4 Honeysuckle

3/1 Vauban

25/1 Zanahiyr

33/1 Pied Piper

200/1 Takarengo

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All odds and market correct at date of publication