As the Cheltenham Festival reaches its pivotal third day, punters and bookmakers are preparing for another intense round of action on Thursday. Horse racing correspondent Jonathan Doidge, reporting directly from the track, offers his expert insights and betting recommendations for all seven races scheduled for the day.
Mares' Novices' Hurdle (13:20, Cheltenham)
In the opening race, the Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle, the market shows little separation between the top contenders. However, Oldschool Outlaw, the second favourite, presents significant value at 9/2 with Coral. This Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old has maintained an impeccable record this season, showcasing improvement with a victory in a Fairyhouse Grade 3 last time out. While Bambino Fever, whom she defeated at Naas in December, has since rebounded, the pricing disparity suggests Oldschool Outlaw is the smarter each-way play. Among British hopefuls, La Conquiere emerges as the most intriguing outsider.
Jack Richards Novices' Limited Handicap Chase (14:00, Cheltenham)
Ben Solo, trained by Rebecca Curtis, remains an enticing prospect at 33/1 with bet365. The seven-year-old is gradually finding his stride over fences, having secured a win over an extended 2m3f at Chepstow in November. His subsequent performances, including a close second and an unfortunate unseating, indicate potential for further improvement. With his handicap mark unchanged at 127, he could be significantly underestimated. Curtis's history with Festival winners adds to his appeal, making him a worthwhile each-way selection for small stakes.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle (14:40, Cheltenham)
Wodhooh, last year's Martin Pipe winner, stands several pounds clear on official ratings and is favoured at 8/11 with Ladbrokes. Her season has been consistent with victories in an Ascot Grade 2 and a Leopardstown Grade 3. The recent drying conditions should suit her perfectly, and the trip aligns with her optimal distance. On form through Lossiemouth, she appears capable of overcoming Jade De Grugy, who returns from chasing for this event.
Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle (15:20, Cheltenham)
Despite being an 11-year-old, Bob Olinger offers compelling each-way value at 7/1 with BOYLE Sports. His flawless record at Cheltenham, including three Festival wins, underscores his affinity for the course. He performs well on good to soft or slower ground and thrives when fresh, having been unraced since December. With three places available on betting apps, his consistent form—unbeaten in his last eight starts—makes him a standout choice.
Ryanair Chase (16:00, Cheltenham)
Fact To File, the 2025 Ryanair Chase winner, is heavily backed at 8/11 with Coral. Willie Mullins's decision to target this race rather than the Gold Cup is seen as ideal, given the horse's suitability for the trip and track conditions. While respect is due to rivals like Banbridge and Jonbon, Fact To File's class should prevail if he replicates his best performances. The only concern is a potential flat run, as seen in the King George, but he remains the clear favourite.
Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (16:40, Cheltenham)
Red Dirt Road, a lightly raced nine-year-old, is a speculative each-way pick at 40/1 with Sky Bet. Despite a disappointing run at Sandown in January, he showed improvement at Haydock last time out. His versatility across ground conditions and a reduced handicap mark of 134—down from a peak of 144—suggest he is well-treated. If the O'Neill yard has him primed, he could outrun his odds significantly.
Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup (17:20, Cheltenham)
In a race where favourites have struggled, Gericault Roque at 25/1 with Ladbrokes offers each-way appeal. His past form includes a third-place finish in the 2022 Ultima and Coral Gold Cup, though he has been inconsistent since returning from a layoff. A recent second in an Ascot premier handicap indicates a resurgence, and a mere 1lb rise in the weights leaves him well-handicapped based on older performances.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
As the Cheltenham Festival continues, it is crucial to gamble responsibly. Punters are advised to set strict budgets, avoid chasing losses, and 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. All odds and offers are subject to change, and terms and conditions apply.
