Rinse and repeat: which former festival winners could triumph again?

Part of the allure of the Cheltenham Festival and jump racing as a whole is witnessing horses build a legacy by winning time and again. David Baxter assesses the chances of last year's Grade 1 festival winners succeeding again in the same race

Buveur D'Air
Champion Hurdle

Buveur D'Air is going for a third straight Champion Hurdle, such has been his dominance of the division in recent years.

The Nicky Henderson-trained eight-year-old looked as good as ever when dispatching Samcro earlier this season in the Fighting Fifth, but was then shocked by stablemate Verdana Blue at Kempton over Christmas, ending an unbeaten run of 11 victories.

Mares look like providing the sternest test for Buveur D'Air this year, with Apple's Jade and possibly Laurina set to run, not forgetting Verdana Blue. The 7lb fillies' and mares' allowance could be crucial this season.

Verdict Prior to Kempton Buveur D'Air was untouchable, but that defeat has provided a hint of fallibility. He is top-class, but will need to be this year. Chance of repeat win.

Benie Des Dieux: Mullins' 'best chance of a winner' at this year's festivalCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Benie Des Dieux
Mares' Hurdle

Remember Benie Des Dieux? We have not seen last season's Mares' Hurdle winner since Punchestown last April, with a lack of winter ground meaning the eight-year-old has stayed at home rather going to the racecourse this season.

But with Apple's Jade and Laurina in contention for the Champion Hurdle, she could end up being the one to beat, and trainer Willie Mullins rates her his best chance of a winner at the meeting.

Verdict Although her fitness will need to be taken on trust, Mullins is adept at making sure a horse is ready to go on their first start after a lengthy break. However, there are some dangers lurking in opposition and slower ground will be preferable.

Altior winning yet again in the Clarence House Chase at AscotCredit: Edward Whitaker

Altior
Champion Chase

Another Nicky Henderson-trained favourite, and for many the banker of the meeting.

Unbeaten over fences in 12 starts and never really put under any kind of pressure, Altior is the best two-mile chaser around and it is difficult to envisage a scenario where he does not retain his crown.

Verdict Barring a mistake it will not be an unlucky 13th chasing outing for a horse who will go down in history as one of the greats.

Balko Des Flos: 2018 Ryanair Chase winner needs to return to his bestCredit: Alan Crowhurst

Balko Des Flos
Ryanair Chase

Last season Balko Des Flos achieved a Grade 1 breakthrough in the Ryanair but things have not gone as well this time around.

Another horse who needs slower ground to be seen to best effect, the dry winter has done him few favours, though he does not have much to find with ante-post favourite Min judged on a four-length third in the John Durkan last December.

Verdict Since Cheltenham Balko Des Flos has not hit the same heights, so a return to the track will need to spark a revival, probably in conjunction with soft ground. He has questions to answer.

Native River: Last year's Gold Cup hero out to retain his crownCredit: Alan Crowhurst

Native River
Gold Cup

Not since Best Mate (2002-2004) has there been a successful defence of the Cheltenham Gold Cup, so recent history is against Native River.

But he has looked good in defeat this season in races that arguably did not play to his biggest strength, stamina. Second in the Betfair Chase and third in the King George, on each occasion Native River was staying on and should relish returning to the demands of 3m2½f at Cheltenham.

Verdict As long as the ground is not too quick, then Native River could prove too strong again at the finish like he did 12 months ago. He is an extremely solid conveyance.

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