2021 was the first ever Mares Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. It was introduced as another positive step in the efforts being made to encourage owners and trainers to continue to enhance the population of quality Jumping mares.

Legendary jockey Ruby Walsh said: “The Mares’ Chase will prove a great addition to The Festival, especially when it beds in over a three or four year period.

“Jumps horses rarely have a financial value when they finish racing but for owners who are lucky enough to have a good mare, they can be worth a considerable amount as brood mares and thus owners get some return on their investment.

“Therefore the need for mares-only races is paramount for the value of unraced fillies, to encourage owners to buy them as racehorses.

“Having the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase to go along with the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle adds to the attraction of purchasing a filly.

“Cheltenham are showing their support to the breeding industry by adding this race and in my opinion showing a loyalty to the whole horseracing industry and not just the sport.”

Making their way way into the history books as the first ever winners were jockey Paul Townend on board Colreevy for trainer Willie Mullins. Mullins also trained the runner up – Elimay.

In total there were 11 runners and the winning time was 5m 16.25s.

Willie Mullins made it two for two when Elimay won in 2022. He is currently the only trainer to win the race.