Gordon Elliott Celebrates First Win at 2026 Cheltenham Festival
Gordon Elliott marked a significant milestone at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival by securing his first victory with Wodhooh, who triumphed in the Mares’ Hurdle. This win not only highlights Elliott’s resilience but also adds to his impressive tally of 42 winners at the prestigious event.
Wodhooh’s victory was particularly noteworthy as it was her first Grade 1 win, further solidifying her status in the racing world. The mare has demonstrated remarkable consistency, boasting a record of 10 wins out of 11 races over hurdles. Elliott expressed his delight, stating, “I’m absolutely delighted. She was idling halfway up the run in but picked up again. She’s some mare. It’s hard to know how good she is and we’re lucky to have her.”
Jack Kennedy, who rode Wodhooh, celebrated his 12th festival win with this latest success. Reflecting on the race, he noted, “It’s been a frustrating couple of days, but when you have a mare like her you are waiting on.” This victory comes after a challenging year for Elliott, who had only one winner at the previous year’s festival, making this win all the more significant.
Elliott’s journey in the world of horse racing has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. His first Cheltenham winner was Chicago Grey in 2011, and since then, he has become one of the most successful trainers in the festival’s history. His notable horse, Tiger Roll, has won at the Cheltenham Festival five times, showcasing Elliott’s ability to train top-tier competitors.
Despite the ups and downs, Elliott remains optimistic about the future. He mentioned that he has been through tough years and is currently restocking his horses, indicating a renewed focus on building a strong stable. His commitment to the sport is evident as he stated, “I love horse racing, it’s my life. I’m lucky enough to have 42 Cheltenham winners. We’ve been through a few tough years.”
Wodhooh was the 5-6 favorite for the Mares’ Hurdle, and her performance did not disappoint. The excitement surrounding her win has left fans and observers eager to see how she will perform in future races. As the festival progresses, all eyes will be on Elliott and his team to see if they can continue their winning streak.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future plans for Wodhooh and other horses in Elliott’s stable. However, the victory at the Cheltenham Festival has undoubtedly reignited hope and enthusiasm for both the trainer and his supporters.