Teahupoo Triumphs at Punchestown, Making History for Elliott and Kennedy

In a historic success at the Punchestown Festival on Thursday evening, Teahupoo, trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy, clinched the Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle. The seven-year-old became the first horse in 25 years to achieve the remarkable feat of completing the double.

Teahupoo showcased his exceptional talent, dominating the race and crossing the finish line an impressive six and a half lengths ahead of Asterion Forlonge. The 5-6 favorite traveled menacingly throughout the contest, putting thesuccessto bed with ease in the straight. This victory not only cements Teahupoo's position that of top staying hurdler but also has significant implications for the jockeys' championship.

Jack Kennedy's win propels him to a six-winner lead over Paul Townend, with a tally of 123-117. Despite being suspended for the final day of the season on Saturday, Kennedy's lead may prove unbeatable. The jockey expressed his delight for Teahupoo, stating,"It's very important, obviously. Even without the championship or anything, just delighted for the horse. He has been great to me."

Trainer Gordon Elliott, who has had a remarkable season, shared his thoughts on the historic win, saying,"It was great for the horse and great for Jack, he has a big battle and it's going to be a long tough week. Elliott's stable companion, Sire Du Berlais, unfortunately suffered a fatal injury during the big race, casting a melancholic note on an otherwise triumphant day.

Brian Acheson, the owner of Teahupoo, expressed relief and satisfaction with the horse's performance, putting to rest any doubts from the previous year. "My main thing is about the horse because all the doubters from last year are now put to bed, and it's great for Jack," Acheson remarked. He further praised Teahupoo's exceptional display, exclaiming, "By God did he give a double, victory today and I'm delighted."

Teahupoo's victory at Punchestown follows his impressive win at the Cheltenham Festival in March. The Robcour-owned stayer finishes the season unbeaten, having successfully defended his Hatton's Grace crown in early December. With his dominant performances, Teahupoo has solidified his position being the leading 3m hurdler in training.

Looking ahead, Paddy Power has already shortened Teahupoo's odds to 5-2 favorite from 3/1 for the Stayers Hurdle at Cheltenham next year. The anticipation is high for the horse to repeat his heroics at Prestbury Park in March 2025. Reflecting on the historic Punchestown Festival, Teahupoo's remarkable achievement and the ongoing battle for the jockeys' championship take center stage.

Key Takeaways

• Teahupoo wins Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle at Punchestown Festival.
• First horse in 25 years to complete the double, cementing top staying hurdler status.
• Jack Kennedy's win gives him 6-winner lead over Paul Townend in jockeys' championship.
• Teahupoo finishes season unbeaten, solidifying position as leading 3m hurdler.
• Odds shortened to 5-2 favorite for Stayers Hurdle at Cheltenham 2025.