It’s the moment that racing fans everywhere have been waiting for as the 2024 Cheltenham Festival gets underway at Prestbury Park, one of the biggest events on the National Hunt calendar.
There are seven races on the card beginning with the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, a two-mile Grade 1 race that ignites the famous Cheltenham roar.
Following that is the Arkle, a Grade 1 novice chase spanning two miles, often propelling its winner towards the Queen Mother Champion Chase.
The action continues with the Ultima Handicap Chase, a challenging three-mile-plus handicap chase before the undisputed highlight of the day, the Champion Hurdle.
The afternoon action comes thick and fast with the Mares’ Hurdle and concludes with the Fred Winter and National Hunt Chase.
At NetBet Sport, you can get your money back as a Free Bet up to £10 if your horse finishes second to the starting price favourite.
13:30 – Grade 1: Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2m)
The Cheltenham Festival begins with the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and with Ballyburn potentially moving to Wednesday’s race, the opener seems more unpredictable. However, Firefox appears to be a strong contender for Gordon Elliott, having previously triumphed over Ballyburn.
Despite a setback at the Lawlors Of Naas, Firefox is well-poised to start the festival on a high note, though Jeriko Du Reponet must be respected.
Pick: Firefox to win @ 5.50
14:10 – Grade 1 Arkle Challenge Novices’ Chase (2m)
The Arkle features a prominent Irish lineup, highlighted by DRF champion Il Etait Temps and Gordon Elliott’s Found A Fifty leading the charge. While JPR One stands out among the British entries, it’s Quilixios, trained by Henry De Bromhead and a former Triumph Hurdle victor, who captures the most interest.
With proven performance at Cheltenham, valuable experience, and superior jumping ability, Quilixios is poised to outpace competitors in this rapid contest.
Pick: Quilixios to win @ 6.50
14:50 – Ultima Handicap Steeplechase (3m)
The festival’s opening handicap race appears to be highly competitive, but it’s hard to overlook the prospects of The Goffer, who impressively clinched third place in last year’s event. Considered by many as one of the most formidable races in its history, he managed to secure a remarkable third position, even under a more demanding mark.
With this notable achievement, The Goffer stands out as a strong candidate for one of the week’s top each-way bets in the handicap category, despite the presence of several up-and-coming contenders in the lineup such as Chianti Classico.
Pick: The Goffer E/W @ 6.50
15:30 – Grade 1 Unibet Champion Hurdle (2m)
Unfortunately, Constitution Hill will not be returning to defend his Champion Hurdle crown in 2024 due to his absence from Cheltenham. This situation places State Man as the strong favourite, making it challenging to support any other contender.
Willie Mullins’ State Man, known for his reliability and previous success at Cheltenham, is expected to dominate and it would be a huge surprise if he were to be defeated on Tuesday.
Pick: State Man to win @ 1.33
16:10 – Grade 1 Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (2m4f)
Lossiemouth, another fancied contender from Willie Mullins’ stable, stands out as the clear choice in this race. Having clinched victory in last season’s Triumph here and impressively winning her seasonal debut at Cheltenham in the International Hurdle, her credentials are strong. Although her endurance over longer distances remains untested, her evident class suggests she could effortlessly secure a win in this event.
It appears that her most significant competition may come from within her own stable in the form of Ashroe Diamond and Echoes In Rain.
Pick: Lossiemouth to win @ 1.67
Outside Bet: Echoes in Rain E/W @ 23.00
16:50 – Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (2m)
The Boodles is considered one of the most challenging races to predict throughout the week, yet Wodhooh has emerged as a formidable contender this season, positioning her as a strong candidate to claim her most significant victory yet in this event.
Representing one of Ireland’s top prospects, her seasoned background and consistent winning streak may be decisive advantages in a race known for its intense and often chaotic nature. Look for challenges to come from another Godon Elliott runner Ndaawi and Miss Manzor for Willie Mullens.
Pick: Wodhooh
Outside Bet: Ndaawi E/W @ 9.50
17:30 – National Hunt Steeplechase Challenge Cup (3m6f)
Closing out Tuesday’s action is the National Hunt Chase, where Salvador Ziggy presents an intriguing option for Gordon Elliott’s team.
This horse, known for his undeniable stamina and resilience, harbours aspirations for future National victories. Given his capabilities, he seems undervalued in the market, especially when contrasted with front-runners like Corbetts Cross and Embassy Gardens.
Pick: Salvador Ziggy to win @ 6.00
Remember, at NetBet Sport we’re offering your money back if your pick is a non-runner for every race at Cheltenham.
*Odds subject to change.
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