Punters blast new Cheltenham Festival rule brought in after Willie Mullins winner as BHA say it will 'boost fairness'

The BHA have increased the minimum number of runs for novice and juvenile hurdlers from three to four. The new rule is aimed at boosting the fairness and competitiveness of major handicaps. Willie Mullins' State Man would not have been able to run in the 2022 County Hurdle as he had only run twice over hurdles in Ireland before. He won the next race at Punchestown Festival by seven lengths. Punters are not allowed to bet on winners anymore. Carl Hinchy thinks it's aimed mainly at festival handicap glitches.

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Punters are angry with new Cheltenham Festival rule brought in after Willie Mullins winner. BHA say it will boost fairness.