No Joy For Irish As Macs Becomes Latest To Miss Cheltenham

The Irish Cheltenham raiding party was dealt another blow on Friday afternoon following the news that Macs Joy will miss Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle after pulling a muscle.

Last year's runner-up had suffered problems, early on in the season, but following an impressive run in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle the talented gelding was rated by many as serious challenger in the feature race on the opening day of the festival.

Macs Joy, previously a 9-1 chance with William Hill, finished second to Brave Inca in last years renewal and then gained revenge over his Cheltenham conqueror in the ACC Bank Champion Hurdle at Punchestown.

Spokesman Ben Clarke added: "Its a massive blow not only for the Irish Challenge but also ante-post punters who saw Macs Joy as a lively each way contender for the Champion Hurdle. We still face a great race in prospect but with one less Irish runner to beat British punters and in particular Detroit City fans will be even more confident that the great grey can emulate Rooster Booster and finally loosen the Irish grip on the Champion Hurdle Crown."