As a Londoner, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment options. And when it comes to sports, one can be simply overwhelmed. The Big Smoke has no fewer than seven Premier League football teams varying from high-flying Arsenal to survival hopefuls Luton Town. However, if you haven’t experienced live horse racing, you’re missing out on a quintessentially British event.
This March, mark your calendars for the Cheltenham Festival, a four-day equestrian extravaganza that brings drama. The showdown is not just about races; it’s an experience that combines top-class jump racing with the buzz of a festival atmosphere. Imagine the ‘Cheltenham roar’ as the horses thunder down the track, the camaraderie among spectators, and the priceless moments of witnessing a champion cross the finish line first.
Previewing the Festival
The 2024 Cheltenham Festival kicks off with the Official Cheltenham Preview Evening on Sunday, March 10th, where you can get the inside scoop on the upcoming races. The main festival runs from March 12th to March 15th, featuring many competitive races. The Supreme Novices hurdle kicks things off however the biggest race on Day One is without a doubt the Champion Hurdle. Bookies are already out in force with their new customer offers for Cheltenham and they have made Constitution Hill the short-priced 1/3 favourite to retain the crown he won so impressively last year.
Another one of the highlights of the festival is Gold Cup Day. The reigning champion is French stallion Galopin Des Champs, who romped to glory as a 33/1 outsider last year. This term, he is back and has been made the favourite to retain his crown. But he is expected to face stern competition from the likes of Fastorslow and the ever-popular Shishkin.
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The Big Races and Contenders
The Cheltenham Festival hosts several high-profile races, each with its reigning champions and favourites. It’s never too early to predict the outcomes, and while we are certainly no tipster, we can certainly anticipate tight contests across the board. Bookies have already listed the ante-post betting markets so whether you fancy last year’s winners who are looking to defend their titles, or new challengers who will be eager to make their mark, there is plenty for punters to get excited about.
If you’re looking for tips and insights into the festival, consider joining David Jennings and Johnny Dineen for their episode of Upping The Ante. They’ll be providing valuable information about the festival, the horses, and the riders, which could help you decide where to put down your hard-earned cash.
Getting There
The journey from central London to Cheltenham Racecourse is straightforward. By train, it’s a little over two hours from London Paddington to Cheltenham Spa, with regular services provided by Great Western Railway. From Cheltenham Spa station, shuttle buses run directly to the racecourse. If you prefer driving, the racecourse is around a 2-hour drive via the M40 and A40.
Conclusion
Beyond the thrill of the races, it offers a unique social experience, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the British sporting royalty, and a chance to witness sporting history unfold. So, Londoners, grab your tickets, don your best race day attire, and join us at the Cheltenham Festival 2024.