Wednesday 11th March - Day Two

The yearly jewel in the crown of National Hunt racing had come around once again, taking its customary mid March spot in the calendar. Enthusiasts from up and down the country would descend on the Cotswolds for their annual pilgrimage to the home of jumps racing, Cheltenham Racecourse. The roller coaster track works in harmony with the roller coaster of emotions felt by all involved and some of racing's biggest moments in folklore have taken place on this hallowed turf.
Day one kicked off proceedings with the Champion Hurdle as its centre piece, but day two would continue with the theme of top class quality alongside fan favourite stalwarts of the game. A seven race card would have a bit of everything for punters, two novice events of the highest quality over hurdles and fences, an event over the unique cross-country course, a pair of hotly contested and valuable handicap hurdles and chases with the bumper division also crowning its newest champion. 
A talking point ahead of the festival would be the moving of the final hurdle to a position closer to the home bend and further away from the finishing line. It may be a case of mere metres, but it could have a big effect on the outcome of each race. It was time for the talking to stop and the action to take place for day two. 

Race One: The Turners' Novices' Hurdle - Grade One - 2 Miles, 5 Furlongs - 4-Y-O's and older - Runners: 21

The meeting would dive quickly into the highest quality with the opening contest, the Grade One Turners Novices' Hurdle over the intermediate distance of two and a half miles. Better known to most fans as the Baring Bingham Novices' Hurdle, this contest is a key point in a young horse's career as it has the potential to unveil top class chasers or future champion hurdlers. Since its first running in 1971, the quality of winner has improved year on year. The race gave British racegoers their first glimpse of Istabraq, who won this in 1997 before landing three Champion Hurdles and becoming one of the greatest of all time. Hardy Eustace and Faugheen have also won the Champion Hurdle a year after winning this race while "the Tank" Denman was famously beaten here before winning the Gold Cup in a glittering career. Other horses to go on and record subsequent Festival wins include Simonsig, Samcro, Bob Olinger and Envoi Allen. Last season saw a stellar line-up and a brilliant finish. The unbeaten novices The New Lion, Final Demand and The Yellow Clay lined up against each other, but it was the Dan Skelton-trained The New Lion who finished strongest to take the win. He would return this year to line up in the Champion Hurdle twenty-four hours later.

As so often is the case with novice events at Cheltenham, there would be a plenty of late u-turns for horses with their intended targets and a big case of this came with Willie Mullins's exciting Mighty Park, who was an explosive debut winner and strongly fancied for this race, but diverted to the previous day's Supreme Novices' Hurdle. Despite this, a high class field of bright prospects took their place in the line up. Heading the field would be Nicky Henderson's Act Of Innocence. The six year old has improved vastly since joining the stable at the start of the season and looks to be nearing the finished article with his listed race win at Huntingdon in January. Gordon Elliott last won this race in 2019 with Samcro and his main contender this year came in the same ownership, Ballyfad. The five year old only made his debut back in November but has quickly progressed into a top notch novice. His unbeaten run came to an end with a very narrow second in the Grade One at Leopardstown in February. Last year's winning trainer Dan Skelton would saddle Bossman Jack in this year's renewal. The six year old has been held in high regard all season and won by a wide margin last time, but this would be a first try in Graded company and over this distance. Another who has improved through the ranks is the Jeremy Scott-trained Came From Nowhere. The seven year old has taken the handicap route this season, but was an effortless winner at Ascot on his latest start so could be up to the grade. Chris Gordon has enjoyed another good season and would be represented here by Fortune Timmy. The six year old picked up a pair of novice hurdle wins earlier in the season before running very well in a Grade Two over course and distance when third on Trials Day in January. Willie Mullins has farmed this race in recent years and the first of his seven runners this year would be Free Spirit. The five year old arrived from France on the back of a win there last year and wasn't disgraced on stable debut when third in a slowly run Grade Three contest. A runner for the Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate would be Hurricane Pat for the Gary and Josh Moore stable. The six year old looked very smart when winning a listed race in December at Sandown, but was blown away by an exciting novice at Haydock on his latest start. He would be another stepping up in distance. Declan Queally would have the chance to make history as he trains and rides I'll Sort That. The Irish based six year old remains unbeaten over hurdles and arrived at the big time with a Grade One victory at Naas in January which didn't look to be a fluke. Another runner for Willie Mullins would be King Rasko Grey, who carried the first choice silks of owner Andrea Turley. The six year old has gone under the radar somewhat and looked a nice prospect when winning over the Christmas period at Limerick before coping well with the step up to Graded company last time. Another trainer who is looking for a first Festival winner would be Toby Lawes, who saddled Klimt Madrik. He would win narrowly over hurdles two starts ago, but ran a huge race when second in the Grade One Challow Hurdle at Newbury at the end of last year. Willie Mullins has won this race for owner Rich Ricci with Faugheen and Mikael d'Haguenet in past seasons and they would combine with Laurets d'Estruval. The five year old would be a late contender for this race after winning over hurdles as recently as early Februrary. Paul Nicholls has thought the world of his grey No Drama This End and the six year old arrives here with a big reputation. He has breezed to easy wins over hurdles this season, including over course and distance, but hasn't been seen since bolting up in the Challow Hurdle over the Christmas period. Yet more interest in the race for Gordon Elliott would be Riskaway, another in the Gigginstown silks. The six year old has looked more of a staying type having raced mostly over this trip and wasn't disgraced in a Grade One over an even longer trip at Leopardstown last month. Another five year old in the field would be Saint Baco from the Willie Mullins stable. He is very well bred and won a big field maiden hurdle on Irish hurdle, but ran below his best in a Grade One in January on his latest start. Thomas Cooper's Shuttle Democracy brought Cheltenham form to the table as he finished third in last year's Champion Bumper. The six year old was disappointing initially over hurdles, but got off the mark last time out and his confidence has been restored. Yet another representative from the Gordon Elliott battalion would be Skylight Hustle. The improving six year old landed a Grade One over the Christmas period at Leopardstown in slightly fortuitous circumstances, but is a very exciting prospect in his own right. Willie Mullins has conquered nearly every big racing festival now and would aim to complete a rare double of Royal Ascot and Cheltenham Festival wins with Sober. The seven year old joined the jumps game late, but has quickly made into a high class sort with a Grade Two win back in January. A second runner for Dan Skelton would be Soldier Reeves, who has gone under the radar this season. The five year old won at this venue back in November before finishing in the placings in pattern company, but has been kept fresh with this race in mind. Sortudo would be another Willie Mullins runner in the line up and the six year old has plenty of Graded race form to his name. After winning on hurdling debut, he would then take second in a Grade One on his only subsequent start at Naas to I'll Sort That. Ben Pauling broke onto the scene by winning this race in 2017 and would look to cap a brilliant season so far with Taurus Bay. The five year old was looking promising this season and went down fighting in a Grade Two here in January against Kripticjim. Henry de Bromhead's horses often come to life at this meeting and he would saddle Walks In June in this contest. The son of Walk In The Park has won two of his three starts this year, the latest coming in impressive style in a handicap at Leopardstown over Christmas. Completing the lineup for the opener would be Joseph O'Brien's Zeus Power. The gelding has improved with each run so far and has won his last starts and moved up in distance here.

Winner: KING RASKO GREY (Galiway x Imaginary Move) - #9 - P. Townend - W. Mullins

The sun would shine down on the Cotswolds for the opening contest and a bumper field would take the start. It would be in fact the highest number of runners in this race since 2019, which helps to boost the strength in depth in this division. Jeremy Scott's Came From Nowhere would be the only non-runner in this contest, owning to the quickening ground. 

The starts are Cheltenham are often controversial and with such a large amount horses on the same piece of grass, there was lots of scrimmaging. As jockeys argued between themselves, it would take three attempts to set the race off, but once the starter was happy, he would drop his flag to send them on their way as the crowd gave their traditional roar from the stands.
After all the bumping and barging at the start, it would be King Rasko Grey who picked up the early lead under Paul Townend. Walks In June would race keenly, but was at the head of the pack too along with the Gigginstown-owned pair of Ballyfad and Riskaway. Act Of Innocence, Laurets d'Estruval and I'll Sort That featured in a host of horses who sat close to the pace while further back, No Drama This End had been shuffled back in the order following a messy start. Bringing up the rear as the pack moved into the home straight for the first time would be Soldier Reeves and Zeus Power as the pace was no more than an even one.
As the field made their way to the highest point of the course at the furthest part away from the stands, the field was still tightly bunched. I'll Sort That had eased his way forward and joined King Rasko Grey in the lead as Act Of Innocence also loomed large. On the downhill hurdle, Skylight Hustle would fall but he was already on the retreat as No Drama This End was pulled up, much to the grievance of punters. As I'll Sort That began to feel the pinch, Act Of Innocence joined in the party with King Rasko Grey as Bossman Jack caught the eye with the way he travelled. At even bigger odds, Shuttle Diplomacy looked to be a threat too as the field swung around the bend towards the final hurdle. King Rasko Grey was booted into the lead by Paul Townend and took the advantage approaching the hurdle. He would jump it well and began to pull clear. Bossman Jack hit the hurdle and lost momentum from third, but further ahead, King Rasko Grey powered up the hill to take the opener for the Mullins and Townend combination. A distance of two and a half lengths would go back to Act Of Innocence in second while from a mile away, Zeus Power weaved his way past horses and took an excellent third as Soldier Reeves also ran a brilliant race to take fourth for the Skelton team.

After a 1-2-3-4 of British trained runners in yesterday's Supreme Novices' Hurdle, there was a worry about the strength of the Irish novice challenge for the festival, but the Willie Mullins stable isn't down for long and they bounced back with King Rasko Grey. The six year old was making just his fifth career start here and had been touted as a dark horse for the Festival in many preview nights. The son of Galiway made his debut in the ultra competitive Goffs Land Rover Bumper at the Punchestown festival in April 2024 before taking second in a similar contest at Punchestown almost exactly a year later. He would then make his hurdling debut over the busy Christmas period at Limerick, where his tidy success was overlooked with the amount of high quality racing at that time. On his latest start, he stepped up the grade at the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown where he made most of the running, but was caught in the final strides and took a close up third in a Grade One. The step up in distance looked the right move here and in the same week as owner Andrea Turley announced the retirement of the legend Galopin des Champs, she looks to have an excellent future replacement chaser in the form of King Rasko Grey.  

Act Of Innocence almost made it a double of novice hurdle wins at the festival for his connections, but also looks a good chasing prospect. Zeus Power also ran a blinding race into third as he suffered plenty of interference during his run before flying up the hill into the placings.

Race Two: The Brown Advisory Novices' Chase - Grade One - 3 Miles - 5-Y-O's and older - Runners: 14

The second contest would see the focus switch to the star stayers of the future with the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase. Better known as the Royal & SunAlliance Novice Chase, this three mile stamina test has provided Gold Cup winners of bygone eras, including the almighty Arkle in the races' infancy. Looks Like Trouble and Garrison Savannah both won this race prior to landing the Gold Cup while Grand National winner Miinehoma and King George Chase winner Florida Pearl also won this race in the 1990's. Since the turn of the century, some of the very best staying chasers in Britain and Ireland have won this race, including Denman in 2006, Might Bite and Champ in extraordinary circumstances in 2017 and 2020 respectively and then a pair of subsequent Gold Cup winners in the form of Bob's Worth and Lord Windermere in 2012 and 2013. 

In more recent times, the tough L'Homme Presse ploughed through the mud to win in 2022 and Fact To File was a brilliant winner in 2024. Last year, all eyes were on the supposed "good thing" Ballyburn, but it was his stablemate Lecky Watson who kept his jumping in check and caused an upset to win at 22-1. 

Heading the class of 2026 would be the grey Argento Boy, who lined up here for Willie Mullins. He has been slow to get the hang of things this season, but has looked a thorough stayer recently; winning a Grade Three with ease at Naas. Final Demand was perceived as a banker of the week following some hugely impressive wins over fences this season. The Willie Mullins-trained novice suffered a shock turnover at Leopardstown which dented his reputation, but he remains very talented. Another Willie Mullins runner would be Joystick, who is seemingly at the lower end of the pecking order. The seven year old was found out at a high level previously, but got off the mark with a determined win over three miles last time out and is going the right way. A fourth horse from the Willie Mullins yard would be the JP McManus-owned Kaid d'Authie. The six year old's record isn't flawless, but he has shown his best form over fences this season. He would follow up a beginners' chase win by landing the Grade One novice chase over three miles at Leopardstown at the end of January. The grey Kitzbuhel would be yet another Willie Mullins runner in the line-up and he was just below top class over hurdles. Since moving to fences however, he has produced some stunning performances; including at Kempton over Christmas. He would blot his copybook by unseating early on in the Scilly Isles Chase at Sandown last month. Henry de Bromhead would have two leading chances in this year's contest, the first of them being Koktail Divin. The six year old has been improving with each career start and produced an excellent effort when bolting up in a beginners' chase last time out. Now Is The Hour fell when holding every chance in the National Hunt Chase last year and Gavin Cromwell's second season novice returned to the Festival for this race. The nine year old landed the valuable Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park and is a thorough stayer. One of the fastest rising stables in Ireland would be the one of Connor King, who saddled Oscars Brother. The eight year old has shown himself to be a promising young stayer, winning a pair of Grade Three contests over this trip and was purchased by JP McManus a few months ago. Willie Mullins's sixth and final runner in this contest would be Predators Gold. The seven year old showed smart form over hurdles before winning on debut over fences. He was then caught close home in a Grade Three on his latest start. Gordon Elliott faced a dilemma of which race to target for Romeo Coolio, this one or the Arkle over two miles. Connections decided on this contest for the unbeaten novice chaser who finished second in last year's Supreme Novice Hurdle here. He would scrape home in the Irish Arkle in February and has been crying out for a longer trip. A smaller scale stable taking on the big boys would be Johnathan Sweeney with his runner Rushmount. The nine year old has been campaigned mainly over shorter trips, but was an impressive winner of a handicap last time out at Thurles and moved back up in trip.  Gary and Josh Moore are usually associated with strong staying types and would call upon Salver in this contest. The talented hurdler has upgraded his form over fences this season, winning a pair of Grade Two races, showing plenty of stamina in the process. One of the older runners in the contest would be Thomas Mor for the dual license holders Phillip Hobbs and Johnson White. The once smart hurdler has taken his form to a new level over fences, winning on first start and then chasing home Kitzbuhel in a Grade One over Christmas at Kempton. Britain's leading hope in the contest would be Jamie Snowden's star novice Wendigo. The seven year old has plenty of support from his owners and was unlucky not to finish closer at last year's Festival. Since then, he has landed a Grade Two event over fences and warmed up with an easy win at Ayr at a lower level. Gordon Elliott's Western Fold has been a rapidly progressive young chaser, winning four races in a row which included the prestigious Galway Plate in July. He has also finished placed against fully fledged chasers and took second at Leopardstown last time back in novice company in February. Rounding out the field would be the high class mare The Big Westerner, trained by Henry de Bromhead. The seven year old produced a fantastic display of jumping when smashing a very good horse over fences on her latest start, but mares tend not to have a strong record despite their weight allowance.

Winner: KITZBUHEL (Cokoriko x Valgardena) - #5 - H. Cobden - W. Mullins

The quickening ground would prove too much for Henry de Bromhead-trained The Big Westerner and Predators Gold, who were both deemed non runners on the morning of the race.

Despite the two absentees, the race looked right up to scratch with a whole host of talented young horses. Once again at the start there would be jostling for position and Salver received a glancing blow from a rival horse who lashed out with its hind lings. After a brief check by the vet, Salver was given the go ahead to compete and the race was swiftly underway.

There would be plenty of interest in having the lead approaching the first fence as four horses spread out across the track. The grey Kitzbuhel was easy to spot at the front and he was joined by Final Demand, Western Fold and Koktail Divin across the first fence. As the field began to turn away from the stands for their first circuit, the order began to settle down into a smoother rhythm. Kitzbuhel was jumping happily in the lead under Harry Cobden as his stablemate Final Demand sat in his slipstream. Western Fold came next with the keen going grey Joystick and Koktail Divin as the strongly fancied Romeo Coolio and Kaid d'Authie settled into the midfield, biding their time. At the rear would come Salver, Oscars Brother and Argento Boy who was racing wider than ideal. Passing the stands for the second time, the jumping remained largely solid for the majority of the field and as they began to start their final lap, the pack began to close up. Down the back straight, a high profile name would exit as Kaid d'Authie took a crashing fall but was thankfully unscathed. Punters began to watch on nervously as Romeo Coolio's jumping became fragile and he made repeated mistakes. At the top of the hill, Jack Kennedy called it quits and pulled up Romeo Coolio in a disappointing ending.
The race began to warm up on the downhill run to the third last. Kitzbuhel had put in the occasional sketchy jump but remained full of running in the lead. Koktail Divin loomed large on his inside, travelling strongly and overtaking Final Demand for second. Rounding the sharp bend for home, Kitzbuhel was launched into the second last and met it on a perfect stride, soaring over and landing in front. Koktail Divin's challenge quickly fizzled out and it was left to Final Demand to renew rivalries up front. At the final fence, the two Mullins horses jumped it together, but the grey Kitzbuhel was all heart and found extra up the hill, fending off Final Demand and winning by three-quarters of a length. The pair would pull clear of third, which went to Salver, just ahead of the staying on Oscars Brother in fourth.

To many, there is nothing more enjoyable than seeing a grey horse jumping for fun in the lead and this would be the case of Kitzbuhel. After arriving from France in the summer of 2024, the six year old quickly made into a useful hurdler, winning his first two starts which included a Grade Three contest. He struggled in last year's Grade One Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree, but chasing has been the making of him. Starting out at Punchestown in November, he comfortably held off the subsequent Grade One winner Kaid d'Authie over two and a half miles, but it would be his next start at Kempton in which he lined up in the Kauto Star Novices' Chase over Christmas. A brilliant display of jumping and galloping left those in attendance stunned and a new star born. Just over a month later, his next start came at Sandown in the Scilly Isles Chase but he would make an uncharacteristic mistake early on and unseated his rider. This would be a return to his very best and although his jumping wasn't foot perfect at times, he still showed plenty of bravery to hold off his nearest rival. He is very likely to return to Kempton for the King George VI Chase over the Christmas period, but this win now opens the door for a potential tilt at the Gold Cup next year as well. 
Final Demand would regain some of the reputation he lost on his previous start with this good effort in defeat. He is another to join the list of exciting second season chasers at Closutton. Another six year old, Salver, ran a brilliant race on ground which likely didn't suit him. After been held up early on, he stayed on strongly to take third. A similar comment applied to Oscars Brother, who was also further back early on but kept on eye-catchingly with his next target seemingly the Grand National at Aintree.  

Race Three: The BetMGM Cup Premier Handicap Hurdle - Class One - 2 Miles, 5 Furlongs - 4-Y-O's and older - Runners: 24

Next up would be one of the toughest races to find the winner of throughout the entire meeting, the two and a half mile handicap hurdle. Forever known as the Coral Cup due to its long-standing sponsorship with the bookmaker since its first running in 1993, the premier handicap would take place under a new guise following Coral's sudden termination of its association. The contest itself is often a minefield with over twenty runners tightly packed and racing room coming at a premium over the hurdles. The history of this popular race contains some brilliantly executed gambles, some near misses and dramatic late finishes; including the final furlong burst from What's Up Boys in 2001. Other famous past winners include Monkerhostin, future Graded race winners Whisper and Aux Ptits Soins and more recently, the double winner Langer Dan, who came alive at this meeting for the Skeltons in 2023 and 2024.
Last year's contest saw the Willie Mullins-trained Jimmy Du Seuil make a mockery of his handicap rating, winning with ease and defeating the subsequent Grade One winner Impose Toi in the process. It was the six year old's first run in ten months and he showed all of his quality on the day.

This year's renewal would see the weights headed by The Yellow Clay. Gordon Elliott's gelding was one of the leading novice hurdlers last season and finished second in the Turners Novice Hurdle on this day last year, but hasn't progressed since. He has raced lethargically this season and dropped back down from Grade One company for this race. The popular eleven year old Ballyadam is an old professional in this kind of race and Henry de Bromhead's gelding would return for another Cheltenham Festival. The veteran has finished second and third in the last two runnings of this race which seems to bring the best out in him. The late developing Storm Heart looked to be a strong contender for last year's winning trainer Willie Mullins. The six year old has won both starts this season, including a Grade Three in last gasp fashion at Gowran last month. Nicky Henderson has won this race four times since 2010 and saddled the only three non-Irish trained horses in the top eleven of the racecard. He would attempt to win this race again with Lucky Place. The high class staying hurdler was switched to fences this season, but he wasn't a natural and has soon reverted back to hurdles. He would finish third in the Relkeel Hurdle over course and distance on New Year's Day. Paul Gilligan's Buddy One was a highly progressive hurdle a few seasons ago and has won at Cheltenham in the past. The nine year has been mixing it over fences and hurdles of late but wasn't at his best in the Red Mills Chase at Gowran on his latest start. Yet another runner from the Gordon Elliott army would be Farren Glory. The nine year old is a former Grade One winner from a few seasons ago and has been posting solid efforts in Graded company with numerous placed finishes this season. The star of Lorna Fowler's yard Colonel Mustard is a likeable staying hurdler who rarely runs a bad race. The eleven year old landed a Grade Two contest earlier in the season and also finished fifth in this race last year. Joseph O'Brien's horses are often highly respected when it comes to running at the Festival and his five year old Puturhandstogether returned to the Cotswolds. He was strong at the finish to win the Fred Winter Hurdle last year and he has campaigned with a big race in mind for him to pick. Also in the JP McManus silks would be Kopeck de Mee for the Willie Mullins stable. The six year old arrived from France with a big reputation, but bombed out at last year's festival. He has only raced once so far when falling over fences, but reverted back to hurdles in search of redemption. Nicky Henderson's second runner would be Jingko Blue in this ultra competitive contest. After a promising novice chase career ended quickly last season, he has done well back over hurdles recently, chasing home the exciting Kabral du Mathan over course and distance on New Year's Day. The Seven Barrows stable would also be represented by the resurgent Iberico Lord. The eight year old spent a spell out of form before cashing in on a reduced handicap mark to bolt up in the Lanzarote Hurdle in January, so remains well treated on old form. The Owners Group syndicate would have a big number of owners at the track to see Guard Duty line up here. Emma Lavelle's nine year old has been in the best form of his career this season and gained a deserved win at Doncaster on his latest start. Chart Topper would join the Willie Mullins battalion in this contest and has some very useful form in handicap hurdles last season, but arrived here on the back foot. After pulling up here in October, he was just headed when falling at Haydock last month. Dan Skelton landed back to back runnings of this race in 2023 and 2024 with Langer Dan and his entry Kateira caught the eye. The mare won on her reappearance in November and has since run in unsuitable conditions throught the winter. Horses from the yard are often campaigned with Cheltenham in mind. Yet another runner from the Willie Mullins team would be the youngster Sony Bill. The five year old lined up in the Fred Winter Hurdle here last year, but has been unable to go on from his earlier promise. A very tough operator would be the Gary and Josh Moore-trained five year old Give It To Me OJ. The gelding has been a winning machine in both codes and won here back in October, but hasn't been seen since trailing home last in the Christmas Hurdle. Olly Murphy's horses are rarely far away in races like this and he would saddle Rambo T in this year's contest. The nine year old won the Silver Trophy Hurdle in October, but has struggled for form ever since then. One of the oldest runners in the race would be Dargiannini from the Harry Derham stable. He has been a reliable sort at a lower level through past seasons and won at Uttoxeter in decent style. He was then pulled up on his latest run at Newbury back in November however. Franciscan Rock is a very talented sort and three wins to his does him little credit. Mouse Morris's nine year old has been around seemingly forever and has some very smart form in staying contests. Also in the colours of owner Michael O'Flynn would be Beckett Rock for trainer Henry de Bromhead. The seven year old had struggled for form over fences earlier in the season but produced much better last time out when second at Gowran. He was also sixth in last year's renewal of this race. A dual purpose horse from the Willie Mullins stable would be Bunting, who has the potential to win a nice race but has yet to. His first run of this season was a promising one when fourth, but he struggled on bad ground at Leopardstown in a big field handicap at the start of February. The smaller scale stable of Gary Hanmer would run their stable star Minella Rescue in search of a massive success. The eight year old finished second in a Grade One last season but that performance looked to flatter him. More recently, he shaped nicely at Doncaster after a long break where he looked in need of the run in fourth. Forty Coats lined up here somehow still as a maiden. Henry de Bromhead's seven year old finished fourth in a hot renewal of the Turner's Novice Hurdle last season but has been below his best in two starts since then. A big field handicap could help his cause here. Another runner for the Paul Nolan stable would be HMS Seahorse. The eight year old is undoubtedly talented, but has seen some jumping issues hamper his progress in recent starts. After winning back in June last year, he has since failed to finish in his last two starts in the summer. Ante-post favourite I Started A Joke faced an anxious wait as he was named as first reserve for this race. Charles Byrnes's novice hurdler caught the eye with the way he travelled at Leopardstown before taking a close second which suggests he could improve over this longer trip. John McConnell's horses usually run above expectations at Cheltenham and he would saddle the second reserve Intense Approach. The seven year old did most of his winning through the summer as a novice hurdler, before getting found out at a higher level. After winning over fences in August last year, he hasn't really kicked on as expected and returned to hurdling here. 

Winner: JINGKO BLUE (Great Pretender x Vibraye) - #10 - J. Bowen - N. Henderson

A full field of twenty-four would stand their ground which meant frustration for the connections of I Started A Joke, who missed out on running here.

The two and a half mile starting point would once again be the scene of scrimmaging which led to another false start ahead of the race. Once the big group of horses had settled and rearranged themselves, the starter let them go at the second attempt and the race was underway.

From the outset, Jingko Blue got a flying start and found himself in front from the word go under James Bowen. He would be pressed for the lead in the early stages by a dual Irish challenge which was made up of Franciscan Rock and Forty Coats as the field rounded the first bend and onto the home straight for the first time. Colonel Mustard and Sony Bill would be close up to the pace along with Chart Topper and Storm Heart. In behind these runners came a plethora of bodies as this typically competitive handicap saw a tightly bunched pack. Guard Duty was one of those hindered on the inside at the start and was shuffled back in the opening stages, racing towards the rear with the likes of Ballyadam, Bunting and Puturhandstogether. As the field passed the stands to head out into the country once again, the pace would be a steady one which allowed the runners to thunder past in a large group. Minella Rescue and Rambo T were noticeably struggling at the halfway point and were trailing the back of the main group down the back straight. At the top of the hill, Jingko Blue remained in the lead, looking happy to bowl along up front, but the challengers queued up on his heels. Forty Coats, Franciscan Rock and Storm Heart were all right there waiting in the wings as Ballyadam crept closer. At the third last, the fancied runner The Yellow Clay would fall when in midfield and yet to be asked a question. After the second last hurdle, the heat began to rise as the jockeys started to make their move. Storm Heart made a crucial error which put him on the back foot rounding the turn and Jingko Blue kicked away from Forty Coats. Franciscan Rock drifted to his right to deliver a challenge away from Jingko Blue approaching the final hurdle as Storm Heart rallied back. The leader would see the last hurdle on a good stride and launched over it safely before charging up the hill, turning this very tricky contest into a one-horse race. Jingko Blue would cross the line six lengths clear of Franciscan Rock with a similar gap back to Storm Heart in third. The admirable Ballyadam filled the placings in this race once again, rounding out the top four.

It would be a popular winner for fans of the Nicky Henderson stable who was landing his third win of the week. The seven year old Jingko Blue has recaptured some of his earlier potential by routing this often fiercely competitive race with ease. As a younger horse, Jingko Blue won two of his four novice races and was considered good enough to line up in the Turners Novice Hurdle two years ago where he pulled up. For the following season, he would switch to fences which bore excellent results, winning on his first chase start before adding a Grade Two at Windsor in January 2025. His chasing career was cut short on his next start as he made a bad mistake and unseated his rider in a Grade Two at Ascot the following month which saw the end of his season. This time around, the Seven Barrows trainer opted to revert to hurdles and there was promise in his seventh place in a similar contest at Haydock back in November. He was last seen on New Year's Day over course and distance in the Grade Two Relkeel Hurdle. The jumping mistakes kept creeping in however, but he didn't run badly against the highly exciting Kabral Du Mathan, a live contender for the following day's Stayers' Hurdle. The seven year old remains lightly raced enough to have a go at Graded company over hurdles, but his preference in distance means options may be limited.
Franciscan Rock was always well positioned throughout to take second, which was a upgrade on his fifth in the 2024 running. Connections of Storm Heart will have been thinking "what if" as their gelding finished strongly up the hill into third, but could have been closer without the mistake at the second last. The eleven year old Ballyadam ran another brilliant race with a big weight at Cheltenham and his record at the Festival now reads of a second in a Supreme Novice Hurdle, fifth in two County Hurdles and now second, third and a fourth in this race. An excellent servant to his connections.  There would be a tragic post script to the race as HMS Seahorse fell at the last when challenging for fifth and succumbed to his injuries. Paul Nolan's eight year old won three times over hurdles and once on the flat as well as placing in the 2022 Fred Winter Handicap Hurdle. His loss will hard felt by everyone at the yard.

Race Four: The Glenfarclas Cross-Country Handicap Chase - Class One - X-C Course - 3 Miles, 6 Furlongs - 5-Y-O's & older - Runners: 16

The variety of day two's bill would continue with the Cross Country handicap chase which is a challenge for jockeys both physically and mentally. Taking place on the specially designed inner course, the contest is like a never ending loop for horse and rider and the competitors take in banked fences, barrels, birch fences and even a Canal Turn-style obstacle which is similar to the one at Aintree. Since its first running in 2005, the unique layout has provided a number of course specialists and trainers to follow. Irishman Enda Bolger landed four of the first five runnings, with the likes of Garde Champetre and Spot Thedifference. Other well known experts to have won here include Balthazar King and Delta Work who both won this twice, while the race was elevated to new heights by triple winner Tiger Roll, the diminutive hero who also won two Grand Nationals. 
Last year, plenty of old favourites took to the stage and the race wasn't without its drama.  At the end, the Gavin Cromwell-trained Stumptown arrived late on the scene to win for the second time over this course. He would then go on to win the gruelling Velka Pardubice Chase in Czechia.

The switch of race conditions to make this into a handicap recently has given more of a chance to the "lesser" stables and there would be a competitive lineup to take to this year's challenge. This year's contest would see the defending champion Stumpstown defend his crown with top weight. His only blip of last season came in the Grand National and this would his first run since that historic win in Czechia last October. Next up came another strong fancy, the Gordon Elliott-trained Favori de Champdou. The eleven year old has found a jolt of improvement at this stage of his career, winning a big handicap chase over Christmas and then looking a natural over this course by winning on trials day in January. A second runner for Gavin Cromwell would be Final Orders, who has a smart handicap chaser a few years ago who has found his form again in this discipline. The ten year old won well here in December but then struggled on soft ground in the trial event here in January. A third runner for the Cromwell team would be the popular grey Vanillier. The former Festival winner and Grand National runner up threw away a win in last year's race by nearly going off course, but warmed up for this year with a good win over the Punchestown banks course. Gordon Elliott would look to boost his record in the race with the formerly high class Conflated. Now a twelve year old, he would lose some of his ability last season but has been running well of late in point-to-point races. He wasn't beaten far by Vanillier on his latest start at Punchestown. Another Gordon Elliott runner would be Pied Piper, an eight year old who has seemingly been around forever. He would win two novice events during the summer, but this would be his first start since a heavy fall last time and also his first attempt at this unique course. Another former Grade One winner in the line up who has lost his way recently is Fakir d'Oudairies. The eleven year old has recently moved to the Enda Bolger stable and it is highly likely that he has been given plenty of training for this race at home. Velvet Elvis has taken part in some high class races in the past and lined up for the John McConnell stable. Hopes would be pinned on him taking to this new challenge having been pulled up in the Thyestes Chase last time out. Martin Brassil does well with his small string of horses and would be represented here by Desertmore House. The eleven year old has placed over four miles recently so has plenty of stamina to offer and won on the banks course at Punchestown earlier this season. The nine year old Horantzau d'Airy ran well for a long way in the Grand National last season which offers hope for his debut in this discipline. Now trained by Stuart Edmunds, this would be his first start since pulling up over normal fences in September last year. Another horse who has moved yards recently is Minella Crooner, a tough staying novice chaser from a few seasons ago when trained by Gordon Elliott. Now with the Sarah Humphrey yard, hopes will rest of him enjoying the new scenery having pulled up in this race last year. Another course specialist in the field would be Latenightpass for the Tom Ellis stable. Now a thirteen year old, he hasn't been at his best form of late, but has won on this course and over the Aintree fences during his career, as well as taking second in this race last season. Yet more interest for the Gordon Elliott stable would come from the quirky gelding The Goffer. The nine year old has taken well to these fences having finished fourth in this race last year and has gone on to finish second in two banks races at Punchestown this season. Another debutante over these fences would be Famous Bridge, running in the famous silks of Trevor Hemmings. The ten year old has won a couple of valuable handicaps in the past, but has appeared to be regressing of late. 

Winner: FINAL ORDERS (Camelot x Trapeze) - #3 - C. Stone-Walsh - G. Cromwell

All sixteen runners would stand their ground for this roller-coaster contest and the unusually quick ground would add a new layer to this already tricky puzzle.

The experienced chasers milled around quietly at the starting point on the infield of the course which made for a clean start this time. Desertmore House was sent into the early lead under Ricky Doyle, but was soon joined by Final Orders who pressed him for the early lead. Fakir d'Oudairies would come next in the McManus silks, just ahead of the well fancied pair of Favori de Champdou and Stumptown. Minella Crooner held a handy position until a mistake at the third fence shuffled him back a few places as the course regular Latenightpass was also right there despite racing keenly. Towards the back, Velvet Elvis was already finding it hard to adapt to the new obstacles and was trailing the field in the early stages. He would be preceded by Horantzau d'Airy, Pied Piper and The Goffer as the pace looked to be an even one. After the sixth fence, the barrelled fence, Final Orders was sent on into the outright lead and had been jumping well. The pack would weave and twist their way around this unique track, with only a few mistakes here and there by numerous runners. Velvet Elvis had completed just one circuit before pulling up as his rivals continued without him. Favori de Champdou had taken closer order after the first circuit, but last year's winner Stumptown didn't appear to be travelling as strongly through the race as last year and lost a bit of ground at halfway. On the second circuit on the dip into the water jump, Pied Piper emerged at the top of the hill without a rider. The newcomer to the scene had jumped well up until this stage, so appeared to be unlucky. The final circuit would see an even tighter lap of the track, but Final Orders continued to attack the obstacles. Favori de Champdou went with him as the pair joined the main course with two hurdles left. These two would have the race between them rounding the home bend as they continued to pull a big gap to Stumptown in third, with a new name set to be added to the trophy. Final Orders jumped the last in excellent style and began to pull away once again up the run in, crossing the line two and a half lengths to the good over a weary Favori de Champdou. Eighteen lengths would stretch back to third, which went to the grey Vanillier who did his best work at the finish once again, taking the final podium place away from the disappointing Stumptown.

It would be a first Cheltenham Festival winner for Irish rider Connor Stone-Walsh, who was given an armchair ride by Final Orders, who was always in charge of the contest. Gavin Cromwell's ten year old is a relative newcomer to this discipline, but has some very smart back form to his name. The son of Camelot joined his current stable in 2022 and went on a winning streak soon after, taking in seven wins in ten starts. He would begin to struggle in better quality handicaps from an inflated handicap rating, but started to find form again once stepped up in distance; notably when second in the Ulster National in March last year. Final Orders would then show potential for races of this nature on Punchestown's bank course where he finished third on two occasions at the end of last season and the start of this season. A visit to Cheltenham in December for the first race of this kind proved to be a worthy visit as Final Orders breezed around the course, winning easily in the process. He then returned for trials day, this time on softer ground, but his finishing speed was blunted where he returned in fifth. It is clear that quicker ground is key to this very smart sort, who capped his seventieth race start with his best win so far. 
In contrast, Favori de Champdou was outdone by the quicker ground. Despite making a race of it towards the finish, he didn't have the same kick as Final Orders, but still performed with credit here. Vanillier was held up early on in the race and barely mentioned at times, but he was late on the scene as always, staying on strongly into third; adding to his good record at the Festival.

Race Five: The BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase - Grade One - 2 Miles - 5-Y-O's and older - Runners: 10

The highlight of the afternoon would finally take place and it would be a chance for just one of these gladiators to step forward and place their name in the history books. The Champion Chase is often described as the pinnacle of jumps racing, speed, agility, bravery and drama. The two mile contest has been a mainstay on this fixture since its first running in 1959 and the likes of Fortria, Flyingbolt and even Grand National runner up Crisp were amongst the early winners. The only triple winner of this contest was the great Badsworth Boy who went back-to-back-to-back between 1983 and 1985. The race would also go through a real purple patch in the 1990's and 2000's as Viking Flagship, Remittance Man, One Man, Moscow Flyer and Azertuiop have stamped their class on this great race. In more recent times, Nicky Henderson's domination of this division has seen him win this race with the legendary Sprinter Sacre and untouchable Altior. 

Last year, the race saw a dramatic, incident-filled contest which saw half of the field fall; including a last fence fall for Quilixios. It left the way for the Barry Connell-trained Marine Nationale to romp away and win his second Festival race with high emotions for winning connections following the race. The two mile division has arguably dropped in quality with age catching up to the likes of Energumene and Jonbon as well as some unpredictable outcomes in the trial races throughout the season so far.

The 2026 edition would be dealt another twist just a week before the race as last year's winner and leading contender Marine Nationale was ruled out through injury. Heading the field of ten would be the Anthony Honeyball-trained Brookie. The talented handicapper outran his odds to take second in a Grade One as a novice last season, but he has yet to replicate that form. His handicap rating has forced his hand ito pattern company now. Next up would be the 2024 race winner, Captain Guinness. Henry de Bromhead's eleven year picked up the pieces that year, but tired into third last year. The veteran has been below his best so far this year however. Gordon Elliott has never won the Champion Chase before and would aim to do so with Found A Fifty. The nine year old has been a prolific winner at a lower level. He was well beaten in last year's running and it has been a similar story in Grade One events in his native Ireland this season. The popular grey Il Etait Temps has an excellent record at Sandown and put his name into the hat for this contest by winning the Tingle Creek Chase in December. He would take a tired fall at Ascot in another Grade One, but has a leading chance on his best form. An interesting entry in a wide open contest would be the novice Irish Panther from the Eddie and Patrick Harty stable. The nine year old won impressively on chasing debut before pushing the star novice Romeo Coolio close on just his second start. This would be an even tougher test, but he is progressing very quickly. One of the race's leading contenders would be the Dan Skelton-trained L'Eau de Sud. The grey was a high class novice last season and started this season with an emphatic win here in November. He was well held in the Tingle Creek, but arrives here a fresher horse. Libberty Hunter progressed out of handicap company into open company last season and the Evan Williams-trained gelding was running a big race before crashing out at the fourth last in this race last year. He hasn't made the expected progress so far this year, but remains talented. The hugely talented but enigmatic Majborough lined up as a leading contender this year. Willie Mullins's former Triumph Hurdle winner has seen jumping mistakes hamper his progress, but he put up a brilliant performance to win at Leopardstown last month by a huge margin. Everything would click that day as he destroyed Marine Nationale, but all eyes will be on his jumping in this contest. Another hope for the Henry de Bromhead stable would be Quilixios. Another former Triumph Hurdle winner in the past, the nine year old was just overtaken last year when falling at the last fence, but has run well at Cheltenham previously and this would be his first appearance since last year's mishap. Jane Williams would be looking to cause an upset here with the talented Saint Segal. The eight year old is another high quality handicap chaser over two miles and would look to bridge the gap into the big league here. 

Winner: IL ETAIT TEMPS (Jukebox Jury x Une Des Sources) - #4 - P. Townend - W. Mullins 

Despite the much missed absence of Marine Nationale, Sir Gino, Jonbon and Energumene, this still looked to be a top class renewal with the biggest names available taking their place in the lineup.

The race would get away at the first time of asking, much to the delight of the crowd and from the outset, Quilixios was sent into the lead under Darragh O'Keeffe. Saint Segal was keen to join in with making the running, but hit the first fence hard; giving Ciaran Gethings a tricky job of staying on board. The partnership remained in tact, but Saint Segal was relegated to last. Majborough was racing keenly and moved up alongside Quilixios as they jumped the second fence. The novice Irish Panther sat in third alongside L'Eau du Sud as further back came the likes of Il Etait Temps, Libberty Hunter, Captain Guinness and Found A Fifty. Turning away from the stands, the pace looked to be a quick one as Majborough was allowed to stride on under Mark Walsh. His jumping had been good so far, but at the open ditch, the old habits would return as he brushed through the bottom of the fence. His lead would reduce in size to Quilixios, but it was a scare. The order would remain mostly the same throughout the first half of the race with the jockeys keen to wait behind this strong pace. Saint Segal had been pulled up down the back straight following his first fence error and Brookie was struggling to land a blow. Majborough's jumping began to fall apart at the top of the hill and he would make another critical error at the third last fence, landing on his back legs first and nearly unshipping Mark Walsh. His chance of winning was gone, which left Quilixios in the lead. L'Eau Du Sud travelled strongly and Harry Skelton took a glance behind him for dangers. He would see Il Etait Temps in the mirror as the grey also crept closer approaching the home bend. Into the final straight, Il Etait Temps showed a rapid change of gear and jumped into the lead at the second last fence. He had left L'Eau Du Sud and Quilixios standing as he approached the final fence with all eyes on him. The grey jumped the fence well enough, but the landing gear didn't operate as planned which meant an almighty scare. Il Etait Temps would regain his footing and surged forward again, crossing the line ten lengths clear in brilliant style. Libberty Hunter had been anonymous throughout the race, but benefited from the strong pace to take second, demoting L'Eau Du Sud to third as 2024's winner Captain Guinness rolled back the years by staying on into fourth.

Any doubts about the winner Il Etait Temps before the race were firmly quashed as the eight year old grey was at his brilliant best here, providing Willie Mullins with his third Champion Chase win. The son of Jukebox Jury has always been high class, finishing fifth here in a Triumph Hurdle as a maiden before developing into a high class chaser. A third place in an Arkle Chase in 2024 was followed by two Grade One victories at Aintree and Punchestown. He was also best known for his liking for Sandown, winning the Celebration Chase in April 2025 after a year's absence and then returning to win the Tingle Creek in excellent style in December. He lined up at Ascot for a clash with Jonbon last time out in the Clarence House Chase, but never looked happy from the off before taking a heavy fall. Many felt that Il Etait Temps wasn't quite up to championship level at Cheltenham, but he lined up here without his usual hood. Sitting back from a strong early pace, he was able to creep into contention and career away, making high class chasers look ordinary in the process. All roads will surely lead back to next year's Champion Chase, where he should have a strong case in an open division. 
Libberty Hunter was ridden with the handbrake on throughout the contest under Sean Bowen, but powered up the hill to take an unlikely second place which also posed the question to his connections of "what if he hadn't have fallen last year". L'Eau Du Sud was ridden with confidence and looked a big threat turning for home, but he paid for racing too close to the quick gallop and had nothing extra at the finish.

Race Six: The Debenhams Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Premier H'Cap Chase - Class One - 2 Miles - 5-Y-O's and older - Runners: 22

The second and final fiercely competitive handicap of the afternoon would take place over the minimal trip of two miles. Named in honour of legendary trainer Johnny Henderson, the Grand Annual is often seen as a cavalry charge over fences, much akin to an unpredictable five furlong handicap on the flat. Speed and precision would be in high demand for a clear round, but many specialists to the distance would take their place in the line-up.  Formerly taking place on the final day of the meeting, this contest remains just as hard to find the winner of, but it also helped to propel the careers of Grade One winners Pearlyman and Edredon Bleu. In recent times, the race has been won by a different trainer in each running since 2018, which hardens the unpredictable nature of the contest. Last year, the six year old Jazzy Matty would defy his older rivals and hold on for a narrow success; landing a second Festival win in the process having caused a shock in the Fred Winter Juvenile Hurdle two years earlier. 

Top weight in this fiercely competitive event would be carried by the seven year old Touch Me Not, who carried the Gigginstown Stud silks for trainer Gordon Elliott. Despite winning just once over fences, he has retained some high class Graded form last season and this season, including when second in his only previous handicap start in November. Dan Skelton won this race in 2024 with Unexpected Party and would look to regain the trophy with Calico. The usually free going front runner won twice earlier in the season, including over course and distance, before warming up with a fourth in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury last month. Paul Nicholls's Rubaud is a talented hurdler in lower Graded company and is perfectly capable over hurdles and fences. The eight year old ran well once again in the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton last time but has also won a Grade Two over fences last season. Dan Skelton often targets handicap races at Cheltenham and this has clearly been the plan for the grey Be Aware. The seven year old won on his debut over fences at the start of the season, but has finished second in good company ever since, keeping on into second in a Grade Two at Windsor last time and started life out in handicaps over fences here. A runner for the Henry de Bromhead stable would be Inthepocket, who looked to be a future star when landing a Grade One over hurdles in 2023. Since then, things haven't gone to plan, but this big field race could be an ideal scenario for the nine year old. Another former high class runner in the field would be Harry Fry's Boothill. The eleven year old has struggled in Grade One company, but has been running well in Grade Two and Grade Three races. He would take a well beaten third in the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton when last seen over the Christmas period. Gavin Cromwell's seven year old Addragoole has been transformed since switching to fences of late and was impressive when winning a competitive handicap at Leopardstown over Christmas. He was last seen taking third in a listed handicap which suggests he can cope with this sort of race. Last year's winner Jazzy Matty would look to defend his crown for the Cian Collins stable. The seven year old runs here from a higher rating, but has run over fences just once since his win last year. He caught the eye over hurdles last time when sixth at Thurles. Another very progressive contender in the contest would be Vanderpoel from the Ben Pauling stable. The seven year old has barely put a foot wrong throughout his career and has been impressive in novice handicap chase this season, but this would be a new test in tougher company. This is one of the few races at the Festival which hasn't been won by Willie Mullins, but the champion Irish trainer would be represented by Western Diego here. The nine year old has been a smart performer through the last few seasons and broke a losing streak by winning a Grade Three handicap at Fairyhouse in January before running to a similar level next time when fourth at Leopardstown last time out. The Other Mozzie hasn't quite lived up to his pedigree so far and his progression over fences has halted recently. He looked set to improve further by winning at the Scottish National meeting at Ayr last spring, but has produced quiet runs of late and has now joined the talented Laura Morgan's stable. The eight year old Special Cadeau isn't bred for the jumps, but has defied his pedigree to be a useful chaser for Henry de Bromhead. He has finished just below the highest level as a novice, but posted decent efforts in handicap chases towards the end of last year including a second at Ascot. The form of Venetia Williams's runners has just started to turn for the better recently and they would be represented by Martator. The nine year old's rating has slowly worked its way downwards in the last two seasons and he could be dangerous now, based on his second at Ascot and then unseating when yet to challenge at Sandown on his latest start. Ballysax Hank has been recently purchased by new owners and would line up for the Gavin Cromwell stable. The seven year old landed a valuable prize last summer and has been slowly getting closer in a pair of runs since an autumn break recently. Personal Ambition has some form at Graded level over fences, albeit over longer distances. Ben Pauling's seven year old would return to winning ways with an impressive success at Newbury last time out. An in form runner in the line up would be Henry Daly's Jour d'Evasion. The seven year old has turned a corner since switching to fences this season, winning his last three starts with ease. This would be a better gauge of where his ceiling lies. Another Irish challenger would be the mare Break My Soul from the Ian Donoghue stable. The seven year old has turned into a flag bearer for the yard with excellent runs at the highest level and hasn't done badly this season since switching to fences. Gordon Elliott would also be represented by the novice Relieved Of Duties. The seven year old has run well in his first season over fences including a second here in October but has been outclassed in stronger company recently. Jasko Des Dames would make a second attempt at this race as Henry de Bromhead's seven year old ran an excellent race to finish fifth last year. He has since taken second in two starts earlier in the season and wasn't disgraced after a break on his latest start in February. Another trainer who has enjoyed handicap success here in the past is Paul Nolan, who saddled Release The Beast. The lightly raced seven year old has been progressive over fences recently and has posted two good second placings in valuable handicaps; the latest of which came over the Christmas period.  First reserve would be potentially another runner for the Gordon Elliott and Robcour combination with Golden Joy. The seven year old has been getting closer with each start this season, the latest of which saw him finish strongly into second in a similar race at Leopardstown last month. Fergal O'Brien has suffered some near misses at the Festival in years gone by and would hope to break the hoodoo with second reserve Ryan's Rocket. He was an impressive winner on seasonal debut at Newbury in late November, but unseated his rider when travelling powerfully in the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton over Christmas so might still be improving. 

Winner: MARTATOR (Martaline x Tornada) - #13 - C. Deutsch - V. Williams

Just like in the BetMGM Cup, the initial field would remain in tact and the two reserves, Ryan's Rocket and Golden Joy were unable to sneak into the race at the last minute.

The underfoot conditions had been getting quicker throughout the week with a stiff breeze and sunny conditions, which meant the going was upgraded to "good" all over, conditions that are rarely seen at the Festival. It meant that this often rapid dash for the cash would be even more unpredictable with firmer than usual ground. As expected, there would be a battle for the lead as the flag dropped and horses fanned out across the track. Addragoole would hold a very narrow lead, but was kept honest by Touch Me Not, Be Aware, Personal Ambition, Rubaud and Unbreak My Heart over the first fence. Jour d'Evasion joined up at the head of affairs at the second fence as the pack were already making their way around the bend that took them out into the countryside. Ballysax Hank was held up at the rear of the field at the halfway stage along with Martator and Release The Beast as Jour d'Evasion weakened rapidly out of contention down the back straight. The lead of the race would be passed around by many horses as the field remained very close together. Vanderpoel was the latest to join in as Be Aware took the downhill descent with a narrow lead. The third last fence came up quickly and it saw The Other Mozzie take a fall, but he was already towards the rear and struggling. Approaching the home bend, there was any amount of horses with a chance of winning. Be Aware began to retreat as Jazzy Matty and Jasko Des Dames took closer order. The green and gold silks of JP McManus inched closer with Inthepocket, who was quietly moving closer and rounded the field in midfield on the inside. Jasko Des Dames, Jazzy Matty and Western Diego jumped the second to last fence together as last year's winner looked a strong candidate to win again. On the run between the final two fences, Martator had made steady ground throughout and threw his hat into the ring at a late stage. Jazzy Matty jumped into the lead at the last as Western Diego fell when holding every chance. Unbreak My Heart rallied on the run in, but these two began to drift to the middle of the course. Martator chose the left hand lane and sprouted wings under Charlie Deutsch, catching the two in front and joining Jazzy Matty on the line. A nervous hush fell over the Cheltenham grandstands as punters awaited the outcome of the photo finish, but it would go the way of Martator, who caused an upset. Jazzy Matty was cruelly denied a second win as Break My Heart did nothing wrong in third. Release The Beast was never nearer than at the finish and returned home in fourth.

It would be an emotional winner for trainer Venetia Williams, who is usually sat towards the top of the trainers' championship in a normal season. This season to forget so far for the Grand National-winning trainer as she had sent out just thirteen winners before the start of the day. Stable star Djelo had been ruled out for the rest of the season back in January and her horses had been running poorly. There had been signs of promise recently though and Martator proved that you should never give up the faith at the Festival. The nine year old had been out of form himself this season with a second at Ascot in November being the only highlight previously. He was once an established handicap chaser over this distance, winning five races in a row throughout 2024 and then placing in the Grade Two Desert Orchid Chase of that year. His latest win came at the end of the winning streak in November 2024, but he could only managed tenth in this race last year; albeit from a rating eight pounds higher than today's. As his rating dropped, he began to show life again last time out, running well at Sandown until unseating his rider, Wearing blinkers for the first time, he looked a lot sharper, but still needed an excellent ride from Charlie Deutsch to get up on the line.
Jazzy Matty's record at the Festival now reads as two wins and a second as he was denied a hat trick in cruel style. The mare Break My Soul ran another excellent race for her small yard in third while Release The Beast's challenge faded away into fourth. 

Race Seven: The Weatherbys Champion Bumper (In Memory of Sir Johnny Weatherby) National Hunt Flat Race - Grade One - 2 Miles - 4, 5, 6-Y-O's only - Runners: 21

The closing contest of day two of the Cheltenham Festival is often a view to the future as the National Hunt Flat Race division would determine its champion in the Champion Bumper. The Grade One contest has been a mainstay of day two and was first run in 1992, the first renewal being won by Montelado. Despite a wide range of talented horses on display each season, this is race that is farmed by Willie Mullins. The mastermind of Closutton has won this race fourteen times, including some of his greatest horses such as Florida Pearl and Champagne Fever. Other top quality horses to win here before going on to bigger things include the popular Cue Card in 2010 and Envoi Allen in 2019 while the classy Fact To File was beaten into second in 2023. Last year saw normal service resumed as the well represented Willie Mullins extended his record in the race with the mare Bambino Fever, who provided a first Festival win for jockey Jody Townend. Further down the field that day included subsequent Grade One hurdle winners No Drama This End and Idaho Sun, as well as the leading Supreme Novice Hurdle contender El Cairos. 

This year's class of potential stars of the future would be led by Chris Gordon's highly exciting Bass Hunter. The six year old has done everything right so far this season, winning a listed race at Ascot in December with some ease. He has always been held in the highest regard by his trainer. Gavin Cromwell's runners often come alive on the big stage and he would be represented here by the grey Boycetown. He would chase home the reopposing It's Only A Game on his debut under rules, but made a big impression next time by winning at Navan by eighteen lengths. That performance was good enough to book his seat in the line up in this contest. Gordon Elliott last won this race in 2019 and would have a strong hand in this year's running too. The first of his runners would be Broadway Ted, who put his unbeaten record on the line. The five year old looked professional on debut at Ayr in December before taking a Grade Two at Leopardstown, getting up in the closing stages. He would be joined by stablemate Charismatic Kid, who looked to have a bright future when winning on debut in December for his previous trainer. He took his place in a Grade Three at the Dublin Racing Festival, where he could only manage third and seemingly without excuse. Local trainer Fergal O'Brien is still searching for a first Cheltenham Festival winner, but had a good chance with Chicker in this contest. The five year old won a class two contest over course and distance back in October before returning in sixth a month later, this time in a listed race. He hasn't been seen since, so arrives here fresher than others. The dual purpose stable of Adrian Keatley has enjoyed plenty of success in both codes in recent seasons and saddled the lightly raced Diamant Dore. The son of Martinborough made an excellent start to life under rules with a wide margin success on debut at Ayr and took a big step up in grade. Dan Skelton looked to win this race for the first time and was represented by the debut winner Diamond Street. The gelding looked to know his job well when breezing through the race at Doncaster before streaking clear to make a perfect start that day. Martin Brassil has a small string of horses, but often sources top level winners and would look for the latest one with It's Only A Game. He would pull clear of Boycetown to win for the first time just before Christmas, but seemed to struggle on the tacky ground at Leopardstown when fourth in a Grade Two. Another leading contender for the Gordon Elliott stable would be Keep Him Company, who is also unbeaten so far. The six year old has looked very good in all three starts, pulling clear on his latest start at Leopardstown; but that came just before the New Year and he hasn't been out since. Willie Mullins has farmed this race since the turn of the century and the first of his runners would be the exciting Love Sign d'Aunou. The five year old won his only start in point-to-point but looked freakishly good by galloping clear to a wide margin win at Naas, looking every inch a new star in the making. Irish trainer Paul Hennessey landed his biggest win of his career in the Cup Handicap Hurdle here in 2020 and looked to mark this day with another win courtesy of the gelding Of Land And Sea. The nicely bred five year old kept pulling further clear when making most of the running to win last time out at Limerick. The only maiden in the line up would come from the Cotswold based stable of Willy and NIgel Twiston-Davies, Tally Ho Back. The five year old ran an excellent race to take second behind Bass Hunter at Ascot, but failed to build on it when fifth at Windsor on his latest start. Another runner for the Willie Mullins legion would be the very exciting The Irish Avatar. The well bred five year old travelled very powerfully throughout his debut at Navan and drew clear in the style of an above average sort. Leading flat jockey Colin Keane would come in for a lucrative spare ride on the Noel Meade-trained The Mourne Rambler. The five year old comes from a talented family well known to his trainer and showed a smart turn of foot to win at Leopardstown over the Christmas period. Dan Skelton would be represented by three runners, the first of them being The Skecher. He would make a perfect start to life under rules by pulling clear with every stride at Ayr back in January and looks useful. Willie Mullins would also saddle The Wager, an unexposed five year old. The son of Califet is bred for stamina but still looked inexperienced on debut despite winning. Vango Can Go would be another string to Dan Skelton's bow in this race and after winning nicely on debut, he would stay on into third at Ascot in a listed event. An unbeaten British hope would come in the form of Jamie Snowden's gelding Wilde's Legacy. The five year old has had to battle hard for his two wins so far, but hasn't done much wrong in the process. Gordon Elliott's With Nolimit would also take his place here and the five year old outran his odds to split two stablemates in a Grade Two contest last time, missing out by a narrow margin. Three mares have won this race in the last ten years and the first of the female runners would Moonverrin, who would give her trainer Martin Hassett a big day out. The five year old was a fortunate winner in a dramatic bumper at Leopardstown a month ago, but is also a smart prospect for the future. Four year olds very rarely win this contest, but is has been done in the past. Willie Mullins would throw the highly exciting Our Trigger into the deep end, but the beautifully bred four year old looked very talented at Gowran where he pulled well clear of his rivals in January. He would be joined by fellow four year old and stablemate Quiryn. A similarly well bred sort, he would travel powerfully to win with ease at Naas at the start of the year and is open to all sorts of progress. Completing the field would be the filly Mets Ta Ceinture for the Dan Skelton stable.  The four year old was subject of a big money transfer from France and showed good form in her native country. She would be a fascinating runner with all the weight allowances in her favour.

Winner: THE MOURNE RAMBLER (Well Chosen x Lobinstown Girl) - #13 - C. Keane - N. Meade

The quick ground would see the withdrawal of Charismatic Kid before the race, but twenty-one bright young prospects would still take their place in a highly fascinating finale.

Yet another false start would take place as Diamant Dore was eager to get on with things, but it wasn't long before the closing contest was underway. The four year old Quiryn would take up the early lead, but it was only a brief one as Bass Hunter assumed his traditional front running tactics under Freddie Gordon. In third would be one of the Gigginstown Stud-owned runners With Nolimits, closely followed in the pack by the keen going Of Land And Sea running on the outside of the group and Diamant Dore and Love Sign d'Aunou smuggled up on the running rail. It's Only A Game and The Irish Avatar would also race close to the pace as the well fancied The Mourne Rambler, Mets Ta Ceinture and Keep Him Company raced further back in the order. Bass Hunter was allowed to open up a big lead in front and was already eight lengths clear at the base of the back straight. Around the outside, Of Land And Sea's rider Ricky Doyle appeared to lose his irons and his saddle slipped forward, leaving him in an uncomfortable position throughout the race. There would be little change in the order for most of the race, but Bass Hunter's big advantage had been whittled down to a few lengths by the chasing pack approaching the home bend. The race would reach the point where it begins in earnest and as Bass Hunter whipped the the field around the home bend, there would be plenty of chances. As With Nolimit began to weaken, Quiryn remained in the firing line at the two furlong pole. The filly Mets Ta Ceinture was in the process of running a mighty race for the Skeltons, travelling stylishly into contention. She was joined by Boycetown as the pair made their challenge on Bass Hunter. From a long way back, the eye was drawn to The Mourne Rambler, who emerged from the pack to lead inside the final furlong. The five year old found plenty for pressure and hit the line strongly, winning by two and a half lengths to the filly Mets Ta Ceinture. Bass Hunter's exuberant tactics resulted in an very good third as there was a blanket finish for fourth; Quiryn just held on for the final place in the frame as Diamant Dore flew up the hill despite some interference to take fifth. Further down the order, The Wager was another who travelled well and stayed on nicely into seventh, while Love Sign d'Aunou  and Keep Him Company simply struggled on the quicker ground.

In such an open renewal of the Bumper this year, jockey bookings would provide plenty of clues as to which was the most fancied. Legendary dual purpose trainer Noel Meade booked the services of six time champion Flat jockey Colin Keane for the ride on The Mourne Rambler here and the move paid off handsomely with Keane's first ride at Cheltenham being a winning one. Colin Keane had also been stuck in the war-torn Middle East until a few days ago, but his arrival from Dubai was a well timed one. The winner looks an exciting prospect as he is also well bred and looks made for obstacles. The five year old son of Well Chosen is a full brother to the stable's talented staying hurdler Sixshooter, who was lost prematurely in life, but placed in a number of Graded races. After showing promise on his only point to point start when second, The Mourne Rambler joined the Noel Meade stable soon after and made his racecourse debut on Boxing Day at Leopardstown. He was held up early in that race, but cut through his rivals with ease and pulled away at the finish, looking well above average. Connections were happy enough to keep him saved for Cheltenham which paid off nicely with another impressive victory. The five year old looks set to provide more big days out for the much loved Noel Meade stable in years to come.
The French import Mets Ta Ceinture had a big price tag over her head following her move to the Dan Skelton team, but ran an excellent ran on UK debut; bumping into a high class prospect in the process. Bass Hunter went off quickly, but stuck to the task nicely, showing determination to hold on to third. The four year old Quiryn defied inexperience to finish fourth and is another who will be spoken of more regularly next season.