Superstar mare for Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud, Apple's Jade is "more than likely" going to run in the OLBG Mares Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival in a race she is looking to get her revenge in after losing her title to Benie Des Dieux last season.
The seven year old landed the contest back in 2017 and last year could only finish a tame third when she went off as favourite.
This year she has looked back to her best being unbeaten so far this season, beating both her own sex and the men in multiple Grade 1 contests in Ireland.
(Credit At The Races) “Apple’s Jade is in good form,” said Elliott.
“She runs next in the Irish Champion Hurdle. She will do a bit of work next week and, all being well, that is her next target.
“She is a very good mare who does her best work on the track.
“Apple’s Jade is more than likely to go for the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, a race she has won before.
“She has an entry in the Champion Hurdle, but I think it will be very doubtful that she will go there.”
Among the 30 entries for the hot Grade 1 at jumps racing HQ is the Willie Mullins mare Benie Des Dieux who will be looking for back to back success in the contest along with another five with Limini, Good Thyne Tara and Laurina amongst the initial entries.
Elliott is not solely hoping on Apple's Jade however, as he also has entered Lackaneen Leader, Missy Tata and Tintangle just in case his wonder mare is not at the races on March 12th.
The British contingent is made up of some strong runners with Philip Kirby's leading hurdle and chase star Lady Buttons leading the way with Roksana for Dan Skelton and the Alan King trained Mis's Storm all having each way chances.