Each to reign Supreme for Connell in opener

EACHTOTHEIROWN (1.20) is a lively longshot for the Grade One Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, which kickstarts the 2026 Cheltenham Festival.

- By The Scout (Melissa Jones)

From just two previous runners, trainer Barry Connell landed the prize with Marine Nationale in 2023 and William Munny was best of the rest behind Kopek Des Bordes last term.

My selection had an excuse for his flop in the Grade Two Royal Bond Hurdle at Fairyhouse in November and made the most of a handicap mark of 124 when scoring easily at Thurles.

Up 13lb, the assessor can only rate him what he has done so far, but he could be a fair bit better than his official achievements and Connell expects him to benefit from a more patient ride.

There is stacks of pace in the 12-runner field, which could disadvantage some and play into the hands of the closers, in a very open renewal with plenty of unknowns.

The Grade One Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase can go to Nicky Henderson's young talent LULAMBA (2.00, nb).