'It's frustrating' - Thyme Hill and Pileon defeats cap nightmare week for Hobbs

Philip Hobbs would have been forgiven for thinking a clowder of black cats had crossed his path this week, with the trainer enjoying no luck over the four days of the Cheltenham Festival.

Having watched Defi Du Seuil disappoint in the Champion Chase before Thyme Hill suffered trouble in running in the Albert Bartlett, Hobbs had to swallow another bitter pill in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle, which concluded the meeting.

Pileon was left in front at the last for Hobbs and Ben Jones when Column Of Fire fell, but Indefatigable came with a late rattle to deny the pair on the line.

Reflecting on what had been a challenging four days, Hobbs said: "Thyme Hill was probably an unlucky loser as well so we could nearly have had had two on the day.

Defi Du Seuil (far left): was never travelling according to rider Barry GeraghtyCredit: Patrick McCann

"It's frustrating but it's a lot better than being down the field."

Thyme Hill was left short of room when challenging with winner Monkfish and runner-up Latest Exhibition in the Albert Bartlett, surrendering his unbeaten record over hurdles and finishing fourth.

Hobbs added: "He suffered some interference but I wouldn't say it stopped his momentum, and he suffered a little after the last, but we were beaten and he's run a fantastic race.

"I would imagine we will see Thyme Hill again this season but he's not a horse who wants to run every week. Whether Aintree comes too soon we will have to see."

Of his other leading hopes, Hobbs added: "Defi Du Seuil is fine after his run. We found nothing wrong with him so his run is a mystery. You would think that of all the [JP] McManus-owned horses at the meeting Defi would be the one to win, but the horse is fine and that's the main thing.

"Sporting John was a bit different. He was a bit odd behind after the race as if something was amiss, but he's come right now."

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