State Man Wins Third Punchestown Champion Hurdle

State Man won his third consecutive Boodles Champion Hurdle at Punchestown with a commanding front-running display, further establishing his dominance in the division. Constitution Hill, the odds-on favorite and 2023 Champion Hurdle winner, finished a disappointing fifth after struggling throughout the race, potentially affected by recent falls at Cheltenham and Aintree. Golden Ace, winner of the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle, took second place. Trainer Willie Mullins praised State Man's consistency and reliability at the top level, while Constitution Hill's trainer, Nicky Henderson, plans to closely evaluate his horse after the poor performance. The anticipated clash among recent Champion Hurdle winners failed to produce the expected drama. The result highlights a shift in the hierarchy of hurdling stars as the National Hunt season concludes.