Champagne Fever gives Willie Mullins his seventh win in Champion Bumper at Cheltenham
Champagne Fever added another terrific victory to Willie Mullins’ tally, as he sealed a comprehensive victory in the Grade 1 Weatherbys Champion Bumper at Cheltenham Festival.
Mullins maintained his excellent record in the Champion Bumper, grabbing his seventh success overall in the race. Under Mr P. W. Mullins, Champagne Fever was prominent right from the beginning.
He generated immense speed to lead the proceedings after the opening furlong. Giving his opponents no chance to spoil his party, the rider pressed hard to stretch advantage significantly.
Following some brilliant work, he kept things in control. Consequently, the five-year-old imposed 1¼-length win on the 9-2 favourite, New Year's Eve.
John Ferguson’s highly rated runner finished second. He was quite lucky to grab runner-up position because Champagne Fever’s stable mate, Pique Sous, gave him a real hard time on the course.
Ridden by Ruby Walsh, the 12-1 chance did a very fine job in the beginning. The five-year-old had every chance to finish a bit higher in the rankings, but he failed to increase his speed in the final furlong. As a result, he ended up third by a head distance.
Mullins was contended to see his both runners finishing among top three. At the end of the race, the champion handler said:
"They both ran crackers. We thought we would be positive on the winner, as he gallops. I'm delighted, especially after the way a few of mine have run. I was getting a bit despondent but those two have run their races.”
"Champagne Fever has a huge cruising speed and that is where we went wrong with him first time out. Last time we made all and we decided to do the same today," he added.
The fourth slot was secured by Moscow Mannon, who raced keenly early on. B. R. Hamilton’s trainee was prominent in the early hours, but he could not continue doing well. The leaders outpaced him comfortably to keep him away from top three positions.
Yes Way Hosay completed the list of top five. Staying on one pace hampered him from challenging the likes of Champagne Fever and New Year's Eve.
Champagne Fever has been doing an outstanding job since his debut. After making a winning debut in April last year, the son of Stowaway maintained good standards in the following two races before his Cheltenham victory.
Following his wonderful win, Champagne Fever was given a quote of 12-1 for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle next year.
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