The much-anticipated Cheltenham Festival kicks off with a thrilling first day of jumping action on Tuesday, featuring seven races headlined by the prestigious Champion Hurdle. Horse racing correspondent Jonathan Doidge offers his expert analysis and betting recommendations for every event, providing insights to guide punters through the day's card.
Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle (13.20)
Regular followers will recall Doidge's previous endorsement of Old Park Star ahead of his Haydock victory in January, a tip that proved profitable as his odds subsequently shortened. Trained by Nicky Henderson, who has a strong record in this race, Old Park Star may not be the quickest contender but should benefit from a strong pace that allows him to excel on the uphill finish.
Talk The Talk is suggested as a secondary each-way option, with Doidge noting the horse's near-perfect record over hurdles barring a stumble at Leopardstown. He believes this runner poses the main threat to Old Park Star, despite recent market support for Mighty Park.
Betting Recommendations
- Old Park Star – 1pt each-way @ 5/2 (Betway)
- Talk The Talk – 1pt each-way @ 4/1 (William Hill)
Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase (14.00)
Lulamba receives strong backing for the Arkle, having demonstrated impeccable form with victories at Exeter and Sandown. His only defeat came by a narrow margin at Cheltenham last year, and Doidge expects a top performance to be required to beat him here.
Betting Recommendation
- Lulamba – 1pt win @ 7/4 (BetMGM)
McCoy Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (14.40)
While Manlaga has attracted some market attention, Doidge highlights Mustang Du Breuil as a value alternative, given the minimal rating difference between the two stablemates. This JP McManus-owned runner has shown promise with wins in France and Doncaster, and a below-par run at Kempton is not seen as a true reflection of his ability.
Betting Recommendation
- Mustang Du Breuil – 1pt each-way @ 12/1 (Bet365)
Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase (15.20)
Jagwar is favoured due to his excellent Cheltenham record, including a victory in last year's Plate. Despite two defeats as favourite this season, both runs represented improved efforts, and stepping up in trip could unlock further potential, making him a compelling choice.
Betting Recommendation
- Jagwar – 3pts win @ 4/1 (William Hill)
Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (16.00)
Lossiemouth, unbeaten at Cheltenham, is tipped for a place at minimum, with Doidge suggesting she could capitalise if others underperform. The absence of Constitution Hill has eased the competition, though The New Lion, Golden Ace, and Poniros are noted as potential threats.
Betting Recommendation
- Lossiemouth – 2pts each-way @ 2/1 (Betfred)
Sun Racing Plate Handicap Chase (16.40)
In a competitive field, Zurich is selected as an each-way option. He has course and distance winning form and may benefit from a freshening-up period, with Doidge expecting improvement in a truly run race.
Betting Recommendation
- Zurich – 1pt each-way @ 11/1 (BOYLE Sports/Ladbrokes)
National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices' Handicap Chase (17.20)
Iceberg Theory is backed to relish the marathon trip, having shown stamina and improvement over fences. Trainer Paul Nolan's positive approach and a favourable mark add to his appeal, with drying ground conditions likely to suit.
Betting Recommendation
- Iceberg Theory – 2pts each-way @ 9/1 (Bet365/Ladbrokes)
Responsible Gambling Advice
Punters are reminded to gamble responsibly during the Cheltenham Festival, setting and adhering to budgets, and avoiding chasing losses. Utilise tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion offered by gambling sites. Support is available from organisations like Gamblers Anonymous, the NHS, GamCare, and GambleAware for those needing assistance. Odds and offers are subject to change, and terms and conditions apply.
