Irish trainer Willie Mullins believes Quevega could be even better than last year as she bids for her own piece of history on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival.
The nine-year-old lines up in the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle on Tuesday (Wednesday AEDT), a race she will be trying to win for the fifth successive year.
If she completes the five-timer, Quevega will become only the second horse since the great Golden Miller to achieve the feat.
The legendary chaser dominated the Gold Cup between 1932 and 1936.
Quevega will once again be having her first race for the season, a tactic Mullins has employed for the past three years.
“Quevega has done everything well, we think,” Mullins said.
“Not having had a run, it can be difficult to gauge her, but we think she’s as good, if not better, than last year
“She’s travelled great, she seems in really good form and the ground won’t be an issue for her as she handles all types of going.”
Ruby Walsh has ridden Quevega to each of her previous Cheltenham triumphs and is hoping she can secure her place in racing history.
“She’s in great form, she looks really well and Willie has her exactly where he wants her,” he said.
Quevega will clash again with some old rivals, including last year’s runner-up Kentford Grey Lady.
Last year’s fourth-placed Alasi also features in the 19-strong field along with Shop Dj (fifth), Cloudy Spirit (sixth) and Swincombe Flame (ninth).
