It’s that time of year again, when all eyes are on Cheltenham for the start of the Festival, and I’ve been carefully analyzing each race for Day 1. With so much talent across the board, the competition is always fierce, but I’ve narrowed it down to my key picks for the day. Here are my tips for each race—who I think will win and a few each-way options to keep an eye on.
Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1:30 PM)
Tip: Kopek Des Bordes to win.
For the opening race of the Festival, I’m backing Kopek Des Bordes to take the win. This horse looks like a super star in the making, showing both speed and solid jumping ability. I believe he’s been perfectly primed for this test and will have enough to hold off his rivals. He’s my NAP of the day!
Each-way pick: Tripoli Flyer
If you’re looking for an each-way bet, Tripoli Flyer is worth considering. His form has been steadily improving, and if the ground conditions suit, he could be in the mix for a place finish.
The Arkle (2:10pm)
Tip: Majborough to win.
Majborough has looked the complete package in his chases so far this season. His speed and agility over fences make him a perfect fit for the Arkle, and I believe he has the edge to win this, especially with the reduced field. There are some question marks around his jumping but I think he’ll be able to overcome them on the day.
Each-way pick: Jango Baie
For an each-way bet, Jango Baie could surprise a few people. He’s not the obvious choice, but his form over the past few months has been solid. An unlucky loser against the in-form Handstands LTO, he has the potential to grab a place at decent odds.
Ultima Handicap (2:40pm)
Tip: The Changing Man to win.
An Irish horse hasn’t won this in nearly 20 years, and I don’t think that will change today. Normally one of the top 5 in the market wins this (9 of last 10). Interesting that 8 of last 10 were beaten LTO, but I hope that changes this year as The Changing Man is my fancy.
Each-way pick: King Turgeon
If you’re looking for a bit of value each way, King Turgeon is worth considering. He’s often overlooked, but his resilience and consistency could see him finish in the money. Not forgetting that he’s a C&D winner so knows how to stay on that Cheltenham Hill.
Mares’ Hurdle (3:20pm)
Tip: Lossiemouth to win.
Some disgruntlement surrendering Mullins’ choice to send her to the Mares over the Champion. But if she’s over her fall LTO, she wins comfortably.
Each-way pick: Dysart Enos
At the prices if one overpriced could be Dysart Enos at insulting 28/1. Fav for a Greatwood, decent form at track and a much-needed step up in trip could bring out improvement. Will appreciate being back against own sex.
Champion Hurdle (4pm)
Tip: Constitution Hill to win.
It’s impossible to look past Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle. He’s simply a class above, and if he runs to his best, he will be leaving them in the dust. His jumping and speed make him a formidable contender, and I’m confident he will live up to expectations.
Each Way Pick: Burdett Road
For an each-way bet, Burdett Road looks an intriguing option. He’s not a household name, but he’s been in solid form and, without the likes of Lossiemouth, could very well surprise in this highly competitive race. He was very unlucky not to beat Golden Ace LTO. Worth considering for a place.
Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (4:40pm)
Tip: Stencil to win.
The Irish have won 7 of the last 10, so it could be worth looking at their entries. Stencil was 2/3 in France and then 2nd to East India Dock here in January… And as I am all over EID in the main event on Friday, it’s hard to ignore him. They’re doing really well in France and this must be their main target for the week here. Won’t be against playing each way at 5/1 on him here.
Each Way Pick: Liam Swagger.
The James Owen camp has had a tremendous season both on the flats and jumps. For an each-way bet, Liam Swagger is a solid option. He has the consistency to feature in the places, and with a bit of luck, he could end up finishing in the frame. Definitely worth a look if you’re after value.
Novices’ Handicap Chase (5:20pm)
Tip: Resplendent Grey to win.
The final race of Day 1 is the Novices’ Handicap Chase, and Resplendent Grey looks to have the perfect profile for this race. I think some of his form is very strong and his mark is workable. The marathon trip is a slight unknown as it is for a lot in here, but he shapes like it will suit very well. Sean Bowen on board is also a real big plus.
Each way Pick: Herakles Westwood
For an each-way bet, Herakles Westwood is a horse to keep an eye on. His form suggests he could feature in the places, and at the right price, he could prove to be a smart pick. Cobden is another smart jockey booking.
