The equine flu scare thankfully proved to be no more than a £15m hiccup and racing returned in good time for the build-up to Cheltenham to continue apace.
Unfortunately some of the major players were unable to fit in planned prep races which should make competition over the big four days even more intriguing than usual.
There are some superstars waiting for us at Prestbury Park: Buveur D’Air and Altior are just two from the British stables that will have so many cheering them on in the Champion Hurdle and Queen Mother Chase.
The Irish will, as ever, be out to stop ...