Hello racing fans, and welcome to Day 3 of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival! It’s been an electrifying few days so far, and I’m excited to dive into the races today. There’s a real mix of experienced champions and rising stars, so let’s see what the track has in store. I’ve put together my tips to give you some solid insight for today’s action. Here’s how I see things playing out.
Novices’ Hurdle (13:20)
Tip: Sixandahalf to win
Starting with the Sixandahalf in the opening race, I really fancy this horse to come through with a strong performance. He’s been in fantastic form and looks like one of the most consistent horses in the field, despite his youth. His stamina and sharpness around the track should be a key advantage, and I think he’ll edge ahead for a well-earned victory. Trainer Gavin Cromwell also stated that this was his best chance of a Cheltenham Festival winner.
Each Way Pick: Diva Luna
For an each-way bet, look no further than Diva Luna. She’s a bit of a dark horse in this race, but I have a strong feeling she can produce a good effort today. She’ll definitely outrun her price which seems great value. Keep an eye on her late charge, and with a bit of luck, she could snatch a place.
Novices’ Handicap (14:00)
Tip: Firefox to win
Next up, I’m opting for experience over youth. Firefox has been showing some signs of his fantastic best leading up to Cheltenham, and today I’m backing him to win. His jumping ability has been top-notch this season, and I’m confident he’ll take full advantage of the course and field he’s in. He’s got the stamina for the longer races and should thrive in this particular contest.
Each Way Pick: Pic Roc
Pic Roc, meanwhile, is a solid each-way selection. The Pauling camp has been in great form this season and merit a festival win, following the injury sustained to Jukebox Man. He might not always take the limelight, but his consistency is key. Expect him to be in the mix for a podium finish as he runs with plenty of heart.
Pertemps Handicap Hurdle (14:40)
Tip: Will The Wise EW
Will The Wise is another horse I’m excited about today. With his great balance of speed and stamina, I’m confident he’s ready to step up for a solid win. If he can keep himself in a strong position throughout, I can see him battling it out at the front.
Each Way Pick: Catch Him Derry
For the each-way bet, I’m going with Catch Him Derry. A seasoned competitor, he has a knack for being in contention and getting in the money, especially on these big occasions. He’s got that never-say-die attitude that makes him tough to beat for a place finish. The Skeltons also love a good Cheltenham handicap plot.
The Ryanair Chase (15:20)
Tip: Protektorat to win
I’m taking on hot favourite Fact To File with last year’s winner. When it comes to the Protektorat, I have no doubts that he’s going to be the one to watch today. His form has been outstanding and he’s perfectly suited to the Cheltenham challenge. I’m backing him for a battled-hardened win.
Each Way Pick: Jungle Boogie
I was really impressed with Jungle Boogie LTO as he was well backed in the markets and left his rivals in the dust. Jungle Boogie might be the one to surprise people. He’s a horse who tends to deliver when it counts and could be well-positioned for a top finish, making him a great bet for a place.
Stayers’ Hurdle (16:00)
Tip: Teahupoo to win
Teahupoo is an absolute class act and, in my view, one of the most exciting horses of the festival. Many are concerned by the single run this season, in which she was dispatched by Lossiemouth. However, it’s also true that she’s best fresh. The Stayers’ division is rather weak this year so I think there isn’t much out there to beat her.
Each Way Pick: Home By The Lee
Just cannot ignore the form of this horse this season. The only horse that could cause Teahupoo an upset today, in my opinion.
Plate Handicap Chase (16:40)
Tip: Masaccio to win
A late entry that has certainly caught a lot of eyes. Masaccio looks like a standout in his race today. He’s a horse that’s been catching the eye for a while now, especially his second to the Jukebox Man, and his performances suggest he’s ready to claim victory. I expect him to rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance at Cheltenham.
Each Way Pick: Path D’Oroux
For an each-way punt, Path D’Oroux is the one I’m leaning towards. This horse has made great strides this season and could surprise the field with a solid finish. He’s one to watch as he pushes for a place. Gavin Cromwell horses tend to thrive in a big-field handicap.
The Kim Muir (17:20)
Tip: Walking On Air
Lastly, Walk On Air is my tip for the final race of the day. This horse has plenty of ability, and with the way he’s been running, he looks destined for greatness. He’s got the perfect mix of speed and stamina, and I’m confident he’ll secure a win today.
Michael O’Sullivan’s brother booked to ride, this race promises to be an emotional one.
Each Way Pick: Git Maker
Ran a great race in the Scottish Grand NAtional not too long ago. Trainer Jamie Snowden has a 50% strike rate this season. For the each-way bet, I like Git Maker. While he’s not always the favorite, his form suggests he could be in the hunt for a place. He’s a gritty competitor who could be well-suited to the challenge.
