The brilliant Quevega has raced into the record books with a sixth successive victory in the Mares’ Hurdle on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival.
The Willie Mullins-trained 10-year-old, sent off the 8-11 favourite in the hands of faithful partner Ruby Walsh, was made to work hard by her stable companion Glens Melody until getting her head in front in the final stages.
Quevega surpassed the legendary Golden Miller, who won five successive Cheltenham Gold Cups from 1932-36, and did so in her own inimitable style, making eye-catching progress and moving into third place before the final hurdle.
From there the sights were set on Paul Townend and Glens Melody before she strode away up the hill to take her place in the record books, scoring by three-quarters of a length.
“She’s a great little mare and that was the quickest ground she’s ran on,” Walsh said.
“To come back here six times and do it, she’s 10 years of age – she has everything.
“It’s nice to be part of history. When they ask who won the most races at the Festival, it will be Quevega and I can say I rode her.”
Mullins said he was proud of the mare’s achievement.
“It’s way up there, fantastic. I love Quevega and to do that was one of our missions coming here, to get her there, and I’m happy now for the week,” he said.
“She’s a superstar. I’m so pleased for her and her connections. She has her own place in history now here.”
