Jacksons - Magazine - Page 15
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL
2025 PREVIEW
The Cheltenham Festival 2025 is set to capture the imagination of racing
enthusiasts from Tuesday 11th March until Friday 14th March at Cheltenham
T
his prestigious four-day event features 28 toptier races, including the renowned Gold Cup,
Champion Hurdle, and Queen Mother Champion
Chase.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
Champion Day (11 March): The festival begins with the
Champion Hurdle, where Constitution Hill is the big
favourite, aiming to defend his title.
Style Wednesday (12 March): A day blending high
fashion with elite racing, including the Queen Mother
Champion Steeple Chase, offering spectators a chance
to showcase their style alongside breathtaking races.
St Patrick’s Thursday (13 March): Celebrating Irish
heritage, this day merges festive spirit with competitive
racing, honouring the contributions of Irish trainers
and jockeys.
Gold Cup Day (14 March): The festival ends with the
Cheltenham Gold Cup. Reigning champion Galopin
Des Champs is hoping for a historic third consecutive
win.
NOTABLE DEVELOPMENTS:
Trainer Nicky Henderson faces a critical decision
regarding his four-year-old star, Lulamba. Initially the
6-4 favourite for the Triumph Hurdle, Lulamba has
also been entered into the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle,
prompting strategic planning.
In a notable move, top owner Olly Harris has sold three
horses trained by Henderson, including the prominent
Cheltenham contender Peaky Boy, for a six-figure fee.
Despite these transactions, however, Henderson’s
stable remains formidable with contenders like
Constitution Hill and Sir Gino.
BETTING INSIGHTS:
Bet365 has introduced a Non-Runner No Bet (NRNB)
offer for the festival’s five major races: Champion
Hurdle, Champion Chase, Stayers’ Hurdle, Ryanair
Chase, and the Gold Cup. This initiative provides
bettors with a safety cocoon, ensuring they get
refunded if their selected horse does not end up
participating, which is especially beneficial given the
unpredictable nature of high profile racing events such
as these.
ENHANCEMENTS FOR 2025:
The Jockey Club has implemented several
enhancements to elevate the festival experience:
Customer Experience: Investments have been made
to improve facilities and services, ensuring attendees
have a memorable visit.
Multi-Day Tickets: Attendees purchasing tickets for
multiple days can enjoy added benefits, encouraging a
more immersive festival experience.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
15
