Cheltenham Festival 2017 – Limini and Vroum Vroum Mag set to run against each other in the Mares’ Hurdle
WILLIE MULLINS has declared both Limini and Vroum Vroum Mag for the Mares' Hurdle on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival.
Mullins trained the wonderful Quevega who landed six consecutive renewals before Glens Melody and Vroum Vroum Mag struck gold in the last two years.
Mullins has kept his cards close to his chest regarding running plans for this year's renewal and his decision to let his two star mares do battle is certainly a a surprise.
And Ruby Walsh is set to take the ride on Limini - who had been considered for the Champion Hurdle.
Apple's Jade appears the biggest threat to the Mullins-trained pair. A former Mullins inmate herself before joining Gordon Elliott, the five-year-old touched off Vroum Vroum Mag in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in December before finding Limini too strong.
Gavin Cromwell's dual Grade One winner Jer's Girl and last year's runner-up Rock On The Moor, trained by Jessica Harrington, complete the formidable Irish challenge.
The home team includes the Paul Nicholls-trained Lifeboat Mona and Colin's Sister from Fergal O'Brien's yard.