A Cheltenham spokesperson said: “Following 11mm of rainfall throughout yesterday, there has been no improvement in the conditions on the Cross Country Course and with areas of the track unraceable, the Cross Country Chase has sadly been abandoned.
“The forecast for the remainder of the week continues to look unsettled, with further showers likely on both Thursday and Friday.
“There will therefore be insufficient improvement to the Cross Country Course by Friday, and the decision has been taken not to reschedule the race.”
Mullins has a host of chances on Wednesday including odds-on favourites Ballyburn in the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle and Fact To File in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase.
The day, once marketed as Ladies’ Day, is now branded ‘Style Wednesday’.
A crowd of of 60,181 attended the first of Cheltenham’s four days and spectators and officials will hope all runners and riders come back safely.
Two horses died on Tuesday – Highland Hunter, trained by Fergal O’Brien, and Ose Partir of Martin Brassil’s yard.
A Cheltenham spokesperson said: “Highland Hunter was immediately attended by expert veterinary professionals in the concluding stages of our third race but sadly passed away.
“In the sixth race, Ose Partir sustained an injury and was humanely put to sleep. Our heartfelt condolences are with the connections of both horses.”
Source Agencies
