As we dive into the excitement of Day 2 at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival, the action is only going to get more intense, with some incredibly exciting races lined up. If you’re looking for a little guidance on which horses to keep your eye on, I’ve got you covered. Below are my tips for the day, with a mix of both outright winners and each-way bets that could prove valuable. Remember, the Cheltenham Festival is full of surprises, as we witnessed on day 1.
Novices’ Hurdle (13:20)
Tip: Final Demand to win
The first race of the day is sure to set the tone for the action. Final Demand looks like a solid pick for the win here, having shown great consistency this season and with the ability to handle tough conditions. He’s got the stamina to stay strong in the latter stages, and this race should be a perfect fit for him. Rain expected this morning, he should thrive on the ground.
Each Way Pick: Yellow Clay
For an each-way bet, I’m going with The Yellow Clay who I think is great value. Unbeaten this season and progressing nicely. I thought he’d go the Albert and win that. Should give the two favourites something to think about and can’t see him finishing outside the places.
Brown Novices’ Chase (14:00)
Tip: Ballyburn to win
Ballyburn is my pick to take the win here. He’s been fantastic in his debut season over fences and looks like a serious contender. He looked so much more comfortable across the longer trip LTO. If he keeps his cool and jumps well, I don’t see anyone beating him. Potentially, a future Gold Cup horse.
Each Way Pick: Better Days Ahead
If you’re looking for a solid each-way bet, I’d recommend Better Days Ahead. Won handsomely LTO. He’s an experienced chaser with plenty of talent, and I can see him pushing for a place at a nice price. Don’t be surprised if he pops up for a top-three finish!
Coral Cup (14:40)
Tip: Bunting to win
At last year’s festival, Paul Townend had one handicap ride and won rather handsomely. Trainer Willie Mullins warned us that his dark horse of the festival was whomever Paul Townend would choose to ride in the handicaps. I’m taking their word for it.
Each Way Pick: Maxxum
This is a funny old horse. He just loves a big field race, having won both at the DRF and at the Punchestown Festival in 20+ runner fields. Carl Millar booked to riude up on Maxxum with a lovely 5lb claim, I think the each way price is great value.
Cross Country Chase (15:20)
Tip: Stumptown to win
A controversial decision to make this race a handicapper. But for me Stumptown looks like the one to beat this year. He’s been in great form, still unbeaten this season. and his jumping ability over these fences is top-notch. If he stays focused, I expect him to win. He really looks like a horse bred to be a cross country runner.
Each Way Pick: Mister Coffey
Will he finally get his head up? For an each-way bet, don’t overlook Mister Coffey. While he’s not the favourite, he’s been consistent and will be in the mix come the finish line. If he gets into a rhythm, he could easily end up among the top finishers.
Champion Chase (16:00)
Tip: Jonbon to win
Do not let the amateurs tell you that Jonbon “hates Cheltenham”. The poor lad was on the receiving end of a Constitution Hill masterclass. Jonbon has to be one of the most disrespected horses in history. 20 runs, 17 wins, and 3 second-placed finishes. I think he finally gets his Cheltenham glory today.
Each Way Pick: Found A Fifty
For an each-way option, I’m leaning towards Found A Fifty. He’s a bit of a dark horse, but he’s shown enough to suggest that he could run into a place at a decent price. Keep an eye on him, especially if the ground softens.
The Grand Annual (16:40)
Tip: JPR One to win
He really shouldn’t be in a handicap race. JPR One has been making waves in the build-up. He’s shown enough in his runs to suggest that he’s got what it takes to win here. His raw talent should carry him to a strong victory if he continues his progression.
Each Way Pick: Traprain Law
For each-way backers, Traprain Law has the potential to outrun expectations. He’s been performing well, and with the right conditions, he could easily sneak into a place. Repeat after me, Lucinda Russell’s horses love the mud.
Champion Bumper (17:20)
Tip: Copacabana to win
Once again I’m trusting the words of the legends. Former Cheltenham champion jockey Ruby Walsh stated that this was his NAP of the festival. Meanwhile legendary trainer JP McManus admitted that Copacabana was his only bet of the festival. It won impressively LTO so I’m happy to back again.
Each Way Pick: Fortune De Mer
As for an each-way bet, Fortune De Mer is a good option. He’s not quite the frontrunner, but he’s been consistent and can easily grab a place finish. Watch out for him as he comes into his own. The Skeltons love a bumper too.