Get Your Umbrellas: Rainy Start to Cheltenham Festival
Cheltenham Festival kicks off with a soggy start as rain pours down, promising soft ground for the races. Clerk of the course Jon Pullin confirms a wet build-up, setting the stage for a muddy showdown in the first seven races.
Top Picks for Soft Ground Success
As the weather turns the ground soft, here are five horses to keep an eye on at Cheltenham Festival:
1. Apple Away – National Hunt Chase
Trained by Lucinda Russell, Apple Away is a strong stayer who excels in soft conditions. With an impressive Grade 1 win at Aintree on soft ground, this horse is poised to dominate the 3m6f NH Chase.
2. Ndaawi – Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Former Flat racer Ndaawi, now under Gordon Elliott's care, shows promise on soft ground. A recent easy win at Naas proves this horse's affinity for the softer conditions.
3. Trelawne – Ultima Handicap Chase
Trainer Kim Bailey's Trelawne thrives on soft ground, making him a contender in the Ultima Handicap Chase. Despite some past frustrations, this horse's preference for softer surfaces could lead to a strong showing.
4. Lossiemouth – Mares’ Hurdle
Lossiemouth, a French-bred horse, shines on soft ground and is expected to excel in the Mares' Hurdle. With a Triumph win under her belt, this mare is a force to be reckoned with in the softer conditions.
5. Meetingofthewaters – Ultima Handicap Hurdle
Under Willie Mullins' training and now owned by JP McManus, Meetingofthewaters boasts a perfect record on soft ground. This horse is a strong contender in the Ultima Handicap Hurdle, promising an exciting race for spectators.
Keep an eye on these five horses as they navigate the soft ground at Cheltenham Festival, promising an exciting start to the racing event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a racing term describing a horse as “stayer” mean?
In racing, a “stayer” is a racehorse that excels over long distances. These distances typically exceed a mile and four-furlongs. Stayers are required to have both speed and endurance, in order for them to maintain a high pace throughout long races. Renowned keepers often compete at long-distance races, such as the Ascot Gold Cup.
Do different horse races take place in the UK?
Yes, there are various types of horse races in the UK, falling primarily into the categories of Flat racing and National Hunt (or jump) racing. Flat racing is held over flat tracks that range from 5 furlongs up to 2 miles. National Hunt racing places emphasis on the horse’s speed and ability to jump, and races such as hurdles and steeplechases feature a number of obstacles. Within these two broad categories, there are also variations such as handicaps, maidens, and conditions races, each with specific entry criteria and rules.
What are ‘Classics’ in UK horse racing?
The term ‘Classics,’ used in UK horseracing, refers to a group of five prestigious races which are considered by many to be the most prestigious contests for 3-year-old thoroughbreds. The 2,000 Guineas race, The 1,000 Guineas race, The Epsom Derby Race, The Epsom Oaks Race, and The St. Leger Stakes are all Classics. Wining one of the Classics is a great achievement for a racehorse. And winning all three races of a gender is rare and historic.
What does it mean to have a ‘photofinish finish’?
The ‘photo finish,’ is when two or multiple horses cross the finishing line so closely together that the winner cannot be determined with the naked eye. In such instances, race officials use a finish-line camera that captures images at high speeds to review the precise moment each horse’s nose reaches the line. The photo finish image helps officials to determine the official order of finish accurately.
What role does a steward play in horse races?
Stewards play a vital role in ensuring that horse racing events are conducted fairly and in accordance with the rules of racing. They are responsible for overseeing the conduct of jockeys, trainers, and other racing personnel, monitoring the races for any rule infringements, and holding inquiries into any incidents or objections. The stewards can also impose sanctions, such as suspensions or fines, if rules are broken.
How can the safety of riders and horses be maintained during a horse race?
The safety and welfare of both riders and horses are paramount in UK Horse Racing. There are strict regulations in place that ensure racecourses adhere to high safety standards. Horses are subjected to health checks both before and following races. Jockeys also wear safety gear, such as helmets and protective body armor. Moreover, the sport employs rapid response teams and veterinarians on standby to manage any incidents swiftly and competently.
Statistics
- British horse racing generates over £350 million in annual tax revenues for the UK government.
- The prize money for the Epsom Derby stands at approximately £1.5 million, with the winner taking home a substantial portion of this sum.
- Around 14,000 thoroughbred foals are born each year in the UK with the goal of becoming top racehorses.
- The Grand National at Aintree boasts a prize fund of around £1 million, making it the most valuable jump race in Europe.
- In the UK, more than 14,000 people are employed directly in the horse racing industry.
- The annual Cheltenham Festival has an economic impact of over £100 million for the local Gloucestershire economy.
External Links
racingpost.com
timeform.com
racingtv.com
britishhorseracing.com
thejockeyclub.co.uk
ascot.com
How To
How to select the best betting sites for horse racing in the UK
When selecting the best betting site in the UK, you should consider factors like odds, race coverage and betting options. Find sites with competitive odds and betting markets that include win,place and exotic wagers. Ensure the site covers a comprehensive selection of UK and international races. Check for live streaming, compatibility with mobile devices, and bonuses. Always verify that the site is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission to guarantee fair and secure betting practices. You can also make an informed decision by reading reviews and comparing features.
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