The Best Races to Bet On at the Cheltenham Festival
If you’re a fan of horse racing, you’ll know that the Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest events in the horse racing calendar – beloved by fans and bettors. Held annually every March at the world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, this four-day festival is packed with some of the most prestigious races in the National Hunt season.
With 28 races across the festival, you probably won’t want to bet on all of them… but what ones should you go for? Well, we’re here with our guide to the best races to bet on and why.
1. The Cheltenham Gold Cup
Obviously, your first port of call will be checking out the Cheltenham Gold Cup betting odds, as this is 100% the crown jewel of the festival – and one of the biggest races in horse racing. It’s run over a distance of 3 miles 2½ furlongs and is a test of stamina, jumping ability, and sheer determination.
Why Bet on It?
Well, because of the prestige of the race, it attracts the very best chasers, so the quality of the competition is unmatched. The race often features an awesome mix of previous champions and up-and-coming stars, which makes for insane betting markets. What’s more, because there’s so much information available about the contenders, it makes it easier to make informed decisions.
Tips
Go for horses with proven stamina over similar distances and those that have shown that they can perform well on soft or heavy ground – which is common at Cheltenham.
2. The Champion Hurdle
This is a Grade 1 race that’s the highlight of day one. Run over 2 miles with eight hurdles to clear, it’s a test of speed and agility.
Why Bet on It?
The race attracts top-class hurdlers and the betting markets are usually really competitive.
Tips
Look for horses with excellent records over hurdles and any that have performed well in major trials like the Fighting Fifth Hurdle or the Christmas Hurdle.
3. The Queen Mother Champion Chase
This Grade 1 race on day 2 is a fast and furious contest over 2 miles – and gets all the best two-mile chasers.
Why Bet on It?
This is a race of drama and unpredictability – where you’ll be able to back an outsider with solid credentials.
Tips
Pick a horse with sharp jumping skills that will be able to maintain a high cruising speed throughout the whole race.
4. The Stayers’ Hurdle
This race is run on the festival’s third day and is considered the ultimate test for long-distance hurdlers. Run over 3 miles, this one’s a race where stamina and endurance are essential.
Why Bet on It?
The Stayers’ Hurdle is usually run by returning stars, which means you have a better chance of being able to gauge form. This is also a race where course experience can play a hugely important role, so look for horses that have a solid track record at Cheltenham.
Tips
Go for a horse that has shown itself to be resilient in tough conditions and has proven to be decent over long distances.
5. The Ryanair Chase
Finally, we have the Ryanair Chase – which is also held on the third day. This is a Grade 1 race that’s run over 2 miles 5 furlongs and is perfect for those horses that are best at intermediate distances… bridging the gap between the Champion Chase and the Gold Cup.
Why Bet on It?
This race usually has an excellent mix of experienced runners and rising stars – which makes for a very exciting betting market.
Tips
Put your money on a versatile horse that has done well at both shorter and longer distances, as it demands a mix of speed and stamina.
There are various others you might want to choose from – the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the Arkle Challenge Trophy and more… there’s literally something for every type of bettor!
Our Top Betting Tips for the Cheltenham Festival
Ready to get going? Here are our top tips:
Do Your Research: Analyse form guides, track records, and ground preferences for every horse in the race.
Consider the Trainers and Jockeys As Well: Cheltenham legends like Willie Mullins, Paul Nicholls, and Nicky Henderson usually do really well at the festival. Jockeys that have experience on the Cheltenham course are also worth a look.
Look for the Best Odds: Different bookmakers offer different odds and promotions, so compare the various offers before you make a bet.
Bet Responsibly: Set yourself a budget, stick to it and enjoy the thrill of the races.