Cheltenham Festival LIVE: Today’s results, winners and day 2 preview
The Cheltenham Festival is back for 2023 with a thrilling week of racing lined up in the Cotswolds for what is known as ‘The Greatest Show on Turf’, as racegoers descend on the iconic course.
The Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup bookend the four-day meeting as perhaps the two highest-profile Grade 1 races, with Constitution Hill triumphing in the Champion Hurdle on Tuesday, showing his class to win at a canter after starting as the overwhelming, heavily-backed favourite.
Meanwhile, Rachael Blackmore returns to Cheltenham looking to create more history after an astounding win to retain the Gold Cup in 2022 –a victory that helped the Irish trainers triumph handily over their British counterparts to easily land the prestigious Prestbury Cup, with a mighty 18 wins compared to just 10 for the home horses.
The festival provides a massive £274m boost to the local economy, a study from the University of Gloucestershire has found, and while organisers will be hoping the rain holds off, it promises to be an exciting week of racing regardless.
Follow all the Day 2 action from Cheltenham below:
Cheltenham Festival 2023 Day 2 updates
The Cheltenham Festival 2023 is underway
DAY 1 RECAP: Heavy favourite Constitution Hill wins the Champions Hurdle, the biggest race of the opening day, at a canter
DAY 1 RECAP: Honeysuckle enjoys fairytale end to career as Rachael Blackmore rides her to emotional Mares’ Hurdle victory
‘World’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness goes on sale at Cheltenham
Why are injured horses put down?
10:44 , Chris Wilson
On the back of the Malinello news, one might be wondering why injured horses are put down at all.
Race horses can live for up to 30 years, but horses who are injured in National Hunt events are often put down after breaking limbs.
According to the BHA, this is down to a horse’s complex physiology. Broken limbs may damage other tissue and blood vessels, making injuries more complex. In addition, horses cannot stay off their feet for long periods, making recovery difficult.
Why are injured race horses put down?
Malinello: Horse dies on first day at Cheltenham
10:30 , Chris Wilson
Amidst the excitement of the festival, some unfortunate news.
Malinello, an eight-year-old horse ridden by Gina Andrews, fell awkwardly at the 16th fence of the National Hunt Challenge Cup race.
A spokesperson said that Malinello “was attended to and assessed immediately, but very sadly passed away”.
The RSPCA later tweeted that horses “should never be exposed to unacceptable risk of injury or death.
“We will be discussing this incident with the BHA”.
Malinello: Horse dies yesterday at Cheltenham as animal welfare groups react
What time does Cheltenham start today?
10:17 , Chris Wilson
Cheltenham Festival came back with a bang yesterday as the ‘Greatest Show on Turf’ kicked off the horse racing festival calendar.
From fairytale endings to 18/1 winners, the first day really had it all.
Day 2 is Ladies’ Day; racing will begin at 1.30pm with the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle. There are a total of seven races today, including the Queen Mother Champion Chase at 3.30pm.
When does Cheltenham Festival start today?
What is Cheltenham Festival’s Ladies’ Day?
10:05 , Chris Wilson
Ladies’ Day at the races offers a chance for racegoers - particularly women - to ‘dress to the nines’, with colourful dresses and elaborate hats a trademark of the long-standing tradition.
Ladies’ Day at Cheltenham always falls on the Wednesday; this year it takes places today, March 15.
Celebrities and members of the royal family can often be spotted at Ladies’ Day, and while there’s no obligation to be dressed to your best, many will use it as an opportunity to do so.
The origins of the day are traced back to the 1830s, when Queen Victoria made an appearance at Royal Ascot wearing a porter bonnet, a hat that shielded her face from observers.
What is Ladies’ Day at Cheltenham and how did it start?
Riders contest with new whip rule as Festival begins
09:50 , Chris Wilson
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) recently reduced the permitted number of times jockeys can use the whip, lowering it from seven to six.
Jockeys face a possible suspension for exceeding this limit, while a rider’s horse can be disqualified if they make four or more strikes over a certain threshold. Suspensions have already caused some riders to miss out on Cheltenham.
Both trainers and animal rights charities have been critical of the measures, with the RSPCA’s director of policy calling them “a real missed opportunity for horse welfare”.
Cheltenham Festival: What are controversial new whip rules?
Cheltenham Festival 2023: Ruby Walsh on Edwardstone
09:35 , Jack Rathborn
15.30pm - Champion Chase
“It doesn’t suit me to go against a Willie Mullins horse, but I am, and I’m going against Energumene and the more rain that falls the better chance he [Edwardstone] has,” Walsh said via Paddy Power.
“Edwardstone looks like he’s capable of handling soft ground. Of the two of them since this time 12 months’ ago, Edwardstone looks to be the one who has improved or maybe he’s just maintained his form and Energumene has regressed.”
Rachael Blackmore earns Honeysuckle fairytale ending in horse’s final race before retirement
09:27 , Jack Rathborn
There were joyous scenes on day one of the Cheltenham Festival when Honeysuckle brought the curtain down on her phenomenal career with an emotional victory in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle.
The sparkle of Henry de Bromhead’s superstar had seemingly been on the wane this term and the decision was made to return the dual Champion Hurdle heroine to the race she first announced herself in at the Festival for her swansong.
And the nine-year-old did not let her adoring public down by showing all the qualities that have made her one of the most loved and admired mares of the modern era.
Sent off the 9-4 joint-favourite, ever-loyal jockey Rachael Blackmore had Honeysuckle positioned in second throughout, tracking the front-running Love Envoi and although the pack swarmed as the field made their way down the hill, the order remained the same until after the last.
With Love Envoi refusing to lie down, the brave mare Honeysuckle responded to every urging of her rider to gallop up the Cheltenham hill one more time, going to the bottom of the well and digging deep to edge her way to a titanic one-and-a-half-length triumph.
Honeysuckle earns fairytale ending in final race before retirement
Cheltenham covers race track as temperature drops below zero
09:18 , Jack Rathborn
Cheltenham will deploy frost covers to save the vulnerable areas of its horse-racing tracks as temperatures hit sub-zero levels.
The mercury dropped to -2C in the early hours on Wednesday ahead of day two of the Cheltenham Festival, prompting the clerk of the course to take measures to protect the take-offs and landings around the obstacles, reported Racing Post.
“I’m very happy with the way things have gone, it’s been a nice, drying day. The forecasts are still suggesting we’re going to dip below 0C for a period tonight, possibly down to -2C, so we’ll probably cover take-offs and landings,” said Jon Pullin, the clerk of the course.
Cheltenham covers race track as temperature drops below zero
Cheltenham weather: What is the going for Day 2?
09:08 , Jack Rathborn
After a sunny start to Cheltenham on day one, punters can expext some rain on Ladies Day. Temperatures are set to stay at around 7C and light wind, and there is a high chance of rain later this afternoon which could disrupt Wednesday’s late races.
The ground is trending towards soft at this stage.
‘World’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness goes on sale at Cheltenham
09:00 , Jack Rathborn
Racegoers at Cheltenham Festival will be able to drink the “world’s most expensive” pint of Guinness.
Online bookmaker Fitzdares has launched a blend of the Irish stout and sparkling wine that will cost drinkers £20 a pint.
“Club Black Velvet” will mix the thick black beer equally with English fizz, with Fitzdares’ chief executive claiming he had concocted the beverage to celebrate the new post-brexit deal for Northern Ireland, agreed at Windsor in late February.
‘World’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness goes on sale at Cheltenham
08:50 , Jack Rathborn
Good morning and welcome to Independent Sport’s coverage of Day 2 at Cheltenham Festival.
It’s Ladies Day and there is plenty of action to come.
But first let’s take a look at the results from Day 1, which saw joy for Rachael Blackmore and Honeysuckle.
Champion Day – Tuesday, March 14
Supreme Novices’ Hurdle:
Marine Nationale (Michael O’Sullivan) 9-2
Facile Vega (Paul Townend) 9-4 Fav
Diverge (Mr P W Mullins) 25-1
Arkle Challenge Trophy:
El Fabiolo (Paul Townend) 11-10 Fav
Jonbon (Aidan Coleman) 2-1
Saint Roi (Mark Walsh) 11-1
Handicap Steeple Chase:
Corach Rambler (Derek Fox) 6-1 Jt Fav
Fastorslow (J J Slevin) 7-1
Monbeg Genius (Jonjo O’Neill Jr.) 6-1 Jt Fav
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Constitution Hill (Nico de Boinville) 4-11 Fav
State Man (Paul Townend) 7-2
Zanahiyr (D N Russell) 66-1
Mares’ Hurdle
Honeysuckle (Rachael Blackmore) 9-4 Jt Fav
Love Envoi (J J Burke) 11-1
Queens Brook (D N Russell) 16-1
Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Jazzy Matty (Michael O’Sullivan) 18-1
Byker (P Byrnes) 6-1
Risk Belle (L P Dempsey) 10-1
National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup
Gaillard Du Mesnil (Mr P W Mullins) 10-11 Fav
Chemical Energy (Mr J J Codd) 8-1
Mister Coffey (Mr Derek O’Connor) 11-1
Looking ahead to Day Two
Tuesday 14 March 2023 18:06 , Michael Jones
Tomorrow’s racing will have the Champion Chase where last year’s winner Energumene runs in the colours of Brighton & Hove Alboin owner Tony Bloom looking to regain the trophy.
We’ll have more live updates as the racing once again gets under way at 1.30pm.
Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival
Tuesday 14 March 2023 18:00 , Michael Jones
Cheltenham Festival is underway at Prestbury Park this week as 28 races across four days lure hundreds of thousands of punters to the racecourse.
Tuesday opens with Champion Day and all eyes are on Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill, while last year’s winner Honeysuckle goes for glory in the Mares’ Hurdle for what may be her final race.
Wednesday is Ladies Day and St Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, before the Festival’s big climax with the Gold Cup on Friday.
British trainers will be out for revenge after taking a heavy beating to their Irish counterparts last year, conceding the Prestbury Cup 12 months ago with just 10 wins compared to 18 Irish victories.
The full race results from Cheltenham Festival 2023 will be updated below:
Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival
Trainer Willie Mullins on Racing TV:
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:56 , Michael Jones
“We’re very lucky to have two winners today. I was having a cup of tea, thinking this is over, I couldn’t see him winning until the other horse fell but you need luck.
“He has loads of stamina but he didn’t pick up the way I thought he would. I think the Irish National may come too soon for him. That was a tough race.”
National Hunt Novices’ Chase result
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:44 , Michael Jones
1 Gaillard Du Mesnil - 10/11
2 Chemical Energy - 8/1
3 Mister Coffey -11/1
GAILLARD DU MESNIL WINS THE NOVICES CHASE
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:40 , Michael Jones
Chemial Energy leaps over the last fence in the lead but Patrick Mullins riding atop Gaillard Du Mesnil kicks the horse into another gear and sprints past to claim the win!
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:39 , Michael Jones
Mahler Mission is down! He falls at the second last despite a huge lead.
Chemical Energy moves ahead with Gaillard Du Mesnil upping the pace.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:38 , Michael Jones
Mahler Mission and Mister Coffey lead the way down the hill to the last three fences. Chemical Energy is in third with Gaillard Du Mesnil a fair way back.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:37 , Michael Jones
Malinello is down!
Gaillard Du Mesnil moves through the field and is up to about sixth, just off the back of the leaders.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:36 , Michael Jones
A mistake from Fakiera drops him back to fourth as Bellatrxsa moves out in front. Minella Crooner is involved near the front.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:36 , Michael Jones
They head over fence number six and Fakiera is around a neck ahead of Bellatrixsa in second. Still no movement from Gaillard Du Mesnil.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:32 , Michael Jones
Gaillard Du Mesnil is second last after the first couple of fences. Fakiera and Mister Coffey leap over safely are the head of the pack.
National Hunt Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:31 , Michael Jones
And they’re off! The final race of the day gets started.
Will Gaillard Du Mesnil win the final race of Day One?
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:27 , Michael Jones
The Willie Mullins-trained Gaillard Du Mesnil is being ridden by his son Patrick in the final race of the day and is a regular in the winners enclosure at Prestbury Park.
The horse finished third in last year’s Irish Grand National and Mullins senior believes he is going to be hard to beat in this Cheltenham Day One closer.
Henry de Bromhead on Honeysuckle’s win
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:26 , Michael Jones
“It’s the fairytale ending that doesn’t normally happen. I am so happy for everyone. You dream of it but this is what she deserves. She is an unbelievable mare. She is so special.
“I think we have had a terrible year with Jack but the support everyone has given us we are really grateful for that.”
“I think it’s done. We rolled the dice and we got the fairytale.”
Cheltenham Festival selling ‘world’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:22 , Michael Jones
Racegoers at Cheltenham Festival will be able to drink the “world’s most expensive” pint of Guinness.
Online bookmaker Fitzdares has launched a blend of the Irish stout and sparkling wine that will cost drinkers £20 a pint.
“Club Black Velvet” will mix the thick black beer equally with English fizz, with Fitzdares’ chief executive claiming he had concocted the beverage to celebrate the new post-brexit deal for Northern Ireland, agreed at Windsor in late February.
William Woodhams also hopes that the high-cost libation may stop quaffers complaining about the price of a regular pint of Guinness.
Cheltenham Festival selling ‘world’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness
National Hunt Novices’ Chase odds
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:17 , Michael Jones
Gaillard Du Mesnil 10/11
Mahler Mission 7/1
Minella Crooner 15/2
Mister Coffey 10/1
Tenzing 11/1
Chemical Energy 12/1
Coolvalla 28/1
Fakiera 66/1
Malinello 100/1
Bellatrixsa 100/1
Winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan, speaking to Racing TV
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:13 , Michael Jones
“Unbelievable. He travelled everywhere for me. I was always getting there.
“My dad is amazing. He never pushed me too much and when he saw I showed interest he put a lot of time into me and it is great it is paying off.”
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle result
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:07 , Michael Jones
1 Jazzy Matty - 18/1
2 Byker - 6/1
3 Risk Belle - 10/1
4 Sundial - 18/1
Jazzy Matty wins Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:01 , Michael Jones
Michael O’Sullivan, the winner of the Supreme Novices, has a second win of the day as he storms Jazzy Matty through the final stretch to take the win.
It’s a win for trainer Gordon Elliott too.
JAZZY MATTY WINS THE JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:59 , Michael Jones
Jazzy Matty pips Risk Belle to the line!
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:58 , Michael Jones
Byker, Jazzy Matty, Bad and Perseus Way head up the hill. Risk Bell comes from deep and threatens as they head over the final jump.
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:57 , Michael Jones
Bad comes through the field to take the lead as Byker drops back a couple of places. Samuel Spade and Perseus Way are still in the leading bunch.
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:56 , Michael Jones
Byker is out in front now as the 21 horses are all within seven lengths of each other. The pace isn’t the quickest but they’re moving along smoothly.
Perseus Way and Samuel Spade are second and third respectively.
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:54 , Michael Jones
Perseus Way heads off on the inside close to Samuel Spade who lands awkwardly over the first fence.
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:53 , Michael Jones
The Juvenile Handicap Hurdle almost gets underway but there’s false start and a recall. Tekao, the favourite, was very eager to get away and approached the line too fast.
A second recall is needed so there’s going to be a standing start.
Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:48 , Michael Jones
Two races to go at Cheltenham today. Next up is the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle.
How many horses have died at the Cheltenham Festival this century?
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:47 , Michael Jones
The Cheltenham Festival’s return sees horse racing’s difficult relationship with animal welfare in the spotlight.
One of the most prestigious events on the calendar, four days of racing will be held at the Gloucestershire racecourse this week.
But like most of the sport’s marquee occasions, recent runnings at Cheltenham have been marred by the tragic passing of horses after falls in competition.
According to long-standing animal rights group Animal Aid, at least one horse has died every year that the Festival has been held since 2000.
The organisation’s data shows that a total of 73 horses have died after running at the event in the last 23 years.
How many horses have died at the Cheltenham Festival?
AP McCoy and Nicky Henderson on Constitution Hill
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:41 , Michael Jones
Speaking in ITV, former jockey AP McCoy spoke about Constitution Hill saying: “This is the horse of a generation, and a horse we’ll be talking about for generations.”
Trainer, Nicky Henderson, told the BBC: “That would bring tears to most eyes. He is pretty unique. There is a brilliant team behind it all. You get a horse like this in a lifetime and we are lucky.
“That is only the sixth race of his life but this horse is going to extraordinary levels and we are lucky to be the custodians of it. He is so unflappable.”
Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:36 , Michael Jones
Cheltenham Festival is underway at Prestbury Park this week as 28 races across four days lure hundreds of thousands of punters to the racecourse.
Tuesday opens with Champion Day and all eyes are on Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill, while last year’s winner Honeysuckle goes for glory in the Mares’ Hurdle for what may be her final race.
Wednesday is Ladies Day and St Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, before the Festival’s big climax with the Gold Cup on Friday.
British trainers will be out for revenge after taking a heavy beating to their Irish counterparts last year, conceding the Prestbury Cup 12 months ago with just 10 wins compared to 18 Irish victories.
The full race results from Cheltenham Festival 2023 will be updated below:
Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival
Reaction from Rachael Blackmore
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:30 , Michael Jones
"We all wish a very special kid could be here today..."
A poignant win for @rachaelblackmor #ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival | @HenrydeBromhead pic.twitter.com/7qm4WncuUe— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
‘She’s just phenomenal'
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:28 , Michael Jones
Honeysuckle’s trainer Henry de Bromhead, suffered the loss of his son Jack in September after a fall in a pony race so this victory will feel extra special.
Rachael Blackmore said: “We all wish a very special kid could be here today but he’s looking down on her. As a jockey I am so grateful, she’s just phenomenal and been so important for my career. She’s just a credit to anyone. A brilliant day.”
Henry de Bromhead added: “A fairytale ending, she’s just an incredible mare. It’s been an amazing few years, a lot of fun.”
Nico de Boinville and Constitution Hill won the 2023 Champion Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:25 , Michael Jones
Honeysuckle signs off with victory
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:22 , Michael Jones
😊 Honeysuckle soars home to win the Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle!
It's a fairytale 4th!
She's signed off in some style#ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival | @rachaelblackmor pic.twitter.com/UI6VUJYU6H— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
Mares’ Hurdle result
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:19 , Michael Jones
1 Honeysuckle - 9/4
2 Love Envoi - 11/1
3 Queens Brook - 16/1
4 Echoes In Rain - 9/1
HONEYSUCKLE WINS THE MARES’ HURDLE!
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:17 , Michael Jones
It’s a fairytale ending for Honeysuckle! Rachael Blackmore kicked her on down the final straight and edged her just ahead of Love Envoi before getting over the line.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:15 , Michael Jones
Honeysuckle is well placed with three left to jump but Marie’s Rock has closed the gap. Epatante is back in contention now too.
Love Envoi leaps over the next hurdle and the pace increases with two to jump.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:16 , Michael Jones
Honeysuckle and Love Envoi pull ahead and leap over the last neck and neck.
Love Envoi is smoother out of the landing and Rachael Blackmore has to whip Honeysuckle into another gear...
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:14 , Michael Jones
Marie’s Rock draws alongside Shewearsitwell after the next hurdle and looks to push closer to Honeysuckle, still in second place.
Love Envoi leads the way with four left to jump.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:13 , Michael Jones
Love Envoi opens up a two to three length gap over Honeysuckle with seven hurdles left to go. Shewearsitwell is up to third.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:12 , Michael Jones
Love Envoi edges ahead after the second jump but the pace isn’t too tasking. The rest of the field closes up with Marie’s Rock in in the middle of the pack.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:11 , Michael Jones
And they’re off! Honeysuckle and Marie’s Rock set off as the 9/4 joint favourites.
Honeysuckle and Love Envoi lead the way as they head towards the first fence.
Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:09 , Michael Jones
Honeysuckle looks composed as Rachael Blackmore shows her the first hurdle.
Epatante is in good form, as is Marie’s Rock, who will be the two to beat if Honeysuckle wants to sign off in style.
Mares’ Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:04 , Michael Jones
Rachael Blackmore rides Honeysuckle for the Mares’ Hurdle. Can she help Honeysuckle sign off her career with a victory?
Everyone at Cheltenham would love it but fairytale endings in sport are very rare and Marie’s Rock is a strong contender to take the win this afternoon.
Mares’ Hurdle latest odds
Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:00 , Michael Jones
Here are the latest odds for the Mares Hurdle at 4.10pm from OLBG:
Honeysuckle 9/4
Marie’s Rock 5/2
Epatante 13/2
Brandy Love 15/2
Love Envoi 8/1
Queens Brook 17/2
Echoes In Rain 9/1
Shewearsitwell 25/1
Theatre Glory 28/1
Mares' Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:55 , Michael Jones
The Mares’ Hurdle is coming up just after 4pm and this year’s field is one of the most competitive in recent times.
Last year’s winner, Marie’s Rock, attempts to follow up against two former winners of the Champion Hurdle itself. Honeysuckle, won this race three years ago before landing the Champion Hurdle in 2021 and 2022 but will be making her final competitive appearance on the racecourse today.
Epatante is the 2020 champion and ran to a high level behind Constitution Hill on her first two starts this season.
There is a case to be made too for several of their rivals, with Brandy Love, Echoes In Rain and Love Envoi all within striking distance of the principals on the book.
Honeysuckle would be the most popular winner but Marie’s Rock may just edge this one.
Constitution Hill wins the Champion Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:50 , Michael Jones
"I'll take it"
🏆✅ Gold Cup
🏆✅ Champion Hurdle
🏆✅ Champion Chase#ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival |@NdeBoinville pic.twitter.com/AXjcGFF2l7— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
‘It’s an extraordinary horse'
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:47 , Michael Jones
Winning trainer, Nicky Henderson, said: “It’s just an extraordinary horse, you can’t believe he’s doing that at this stage of his life.
“You always worry that something has gone wrong and he hasn’t run since Christmas, there’s pressure on.”
Reaction from Nico de Boinville
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:45 , Michael Jones
“What a horse, just absolutely delighted. He had loads left. The governor has done a fantastic job.
“It’s been a dream of mine to get the big three [Champion Hurdle, Champion Chase and Gold Cup] and I am delighted to have achieved it.
“He’s just winged every hurdle, it’s just when to push the button.”
Constitution Hill wins the Champion Hurdle
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:42 , Michael Jones
The cool-headed combo of Nico de Boinville and Constitution Hill.
Constitution Hill wins at a canter
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:40 , Michael Jones
This is as close as it gets to a certain winner in horse racing. Constitution Hill storms to victory in the Champion Hurdle.
🏆 Constitution Hill absolutely storms home to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle!
A special performance
A special horse#ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival | @NdeBoinville pic.twitter.com/8lhkES9PRd— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
Champion Hurdle result
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:38 , Michael Jones
1 Constitution Hill - 4/11
2 State Man - 7/2
3 Zanahiyr - 66/1
4 Vauban - 16/1
CONSTITUTION HILL WINS THE CHAMPION HURDLE
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:36 , Michael Jones
Constitution Hill pulls further ahead as he flies down the straight to the finish line. He was heavily backed and lived up to his favourite billing.
State Man ran well and finishes second.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:35 , Michael Jones
Constitution Hill leaps over the final hurdle as State Man storms through the pack to follow him over in second place.
He’s not going to catch the leader though.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones
Three fences to go with State Man attempting to move through the field. Constitution Hill is alongside I Like To Move It at the front of the field now.
Not So Sleepy has fallen away, Vauban is up to third.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones
It’s a steady pace as Not So Sleepy is overtaken by Constitution Hill who is around half a length behind I Like To Move It. Vauban is going nicely in fourth as they leap over the fourth.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:33 , Michael Jones
I Like To Move It has pulled through to lead the race ahead of Not So Sleepy and Constitution Hill in third.
State Man brings up the rear of the field.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:31 , Michael Jones
And they’re off! All the experts and punters are backing Constitution Hill to romp home with a sizeably lead. All the pressure is on jockey Nico de Boinville to get him over the line, can he do it?
Not So Sleepy heads off in the lead.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:27 , Michael Jones
Seven horses run in the Champion Hurdle. Constitution Hill is the best horse in the race but he’ll face competition from State Man and possibly Vauban.
Constitution Hill heavily backed
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:25 , Michael Jones
The big race of the day sees Constitution Hill head out to the post as the favourite. Trainer Nicky Henderson is bidding for a record-extending ninth win in the race.
The six-year-old has been a star since his debut at Sandown in December 2021 and comes into this one with wins in all five of his starts under rules.
Last time out in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park on Boxing Day, he beat stablemate Epatante by 17 lengths and is ridden by jockey Nico de Boinville who knows how to handle pressure.
Odds cut on Corach Rambler
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:22 , Michael Jones
Following his victory in the Ultima Handicap Chase, Corach Rambler has seen his odds cut to 8/1 for the Aintree Grand National in April making him the joint-favourite with last year’s winner Noble Yeats.
Trainer Lucinda Russell won the National in 2017 with One For Arthur.
Champion Hurdle latest odds
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:19 , Michael Jones
Latest odds from Betfair for the 3.30pm Champion Hurdle. Lots of people backing Constitution Hill into the clear favourite position.
Constitution Hill 4/11
State Man 10/3
Vauban 14/1
I Like To Move It 22/1
Zanahiyr 35/1
Not So Sleepy 150/1
Jason The Militant 200/1
Best free bets for Cheltenham: Which bookies have best offers?
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:16 , Michael Jones
Cheltenham Festival returns with punters ready to again assess the runners and riders in pursuit of betting success.
With millions wagered each year on events like the Gold Cup, it is a lucrative week for the bookmakers, with forecast wind and rain perhaps making 2023’s races even more unpredictable than usual.
A number of the United Kingdom’s biggest bookies are offering free bets to celebrate Cheltenham week. Here are the best offers if you’re looking to have a flutter:
Best free bets for Cheltenham: Which bookies have best offers?
Lucinda Russell speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:13 , Michael Jones
Winning trainer Lucinda Russell said: “That was amazing. What a horse he is. He is absolutely brilliant. I was so nervous beforehand because the horse means so much but Derek is so cool.
“He has got a brilliant mind - the horse has got a quite interesting mind. I am so proud and pleased.”
Back-to-back wins for Corach Rambler
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:10 , Michael Jones
Here’s the moment Corach Rambler clinched consecutive victories in the Cheltenham Ultima Handicap Chase.
Back-to-back wins in the Ultima Handicap Chase for Corach Rambler!
🦊 Another big win for @DerekFoxJockey #ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival pic.twitter.com/bKep77VzaD— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
Derek Fox reacts to Corach Rambler’s victory
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:06 , Michael Jones
Winning jockey, Derek Fox, said: “He’s a tremendous horse and he rode even better than last season even.
“I was told by Peter Scudamore to ride him with plenty of confidence and don’t change anything from last year. He’s a nerveless horse, he’s the horse of a lifetime really.
“It needed a lot of things to go right when you commit to dropping back early. It suits his run style. I am over the moon.”
Ultima Handicap Chase result
Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:02 , Michael Jones
1 Corach Rambler - 6/1
2 Fastorslow - 7/1
3 Monbeg Genius - 6/1
4 The Goffer - 7/1
5 Oscar Elite - 8/1
CORACH RAMBLER WINS THE ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:59 , Michael Jones
Corach Rambler wins in consecutive years at the Ultima!
He pips Fastorslow to the line but a head or slow with Monbeg Genius finishing third.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:57 , Michael Jones
Harpers Brook is holding onto his slight lead but behind him the field is bunching up for the final push. Three fences to go, Harpers Brook and Fantastikas come together as they leap over.
The rest of the field catches up with the leaders, it’s anyone’s race with two to jump.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:58 , Michael Jones
Fastorslow leaps over the final jump as the field spreads out Corach Rambler is on his heels, this is going to be a sprint to the finish.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:56 , Michael Jones
Happygolucky is up to fourth behind Top Ville Ben and Fantastikas. Harpers Brook jumps over the water fence and there’s just six fences to go.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:55 , Michael Jones
Harpers Brook is reigned in by Fantastikas and Top Ville Ben. Corach Rambler is in midfield close to The Wolf and the whole field leaps over the fence that signals the halfway stage of the race.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:54 , Michael Jones
Fantastikas and Top Ville Ben leap over the first of the open ditch fences as Harpers Brook heads onto the outside and opens up a lead of a couple of lengths.
12 fences to go.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:52 , Michael Jones
Cloudy Glen leads the pack over the first fence before Fantastikas pushes past and sticks to the rail.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:51 , Michael Jones
And they’re off! There’s a whole heap of contenders in this handicap chase. There are 23 riders involved over this three mile course so it’ll come down to the tactics of the jockeys.
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:48 , Michael Jones
Defending champion Corach Rambler heads out to the post with the favourite tag at 5/1. Trainer Lucinda Russell has her sights set on the Grand National this year and a consecutive victory in the Ultima Handicap will put Corach Rambler in good stead.
Mullins reacts to El Fabiolo win
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:43 , Michael Jones
Trainer Willie Mullins spoke to 5 Sports Extra saying: “To get on the board early is always fantastic. We have a lot of fancied horses today. You have to temper your expectations because we know at least half won’t win.
“I didn’t get to enjoy the win because I was looking at Dysart Dynamo. I stopped looking at the winner because I knew he would win. But thankfully both horse and jockey have got up.”
Willie Mullins gets first winner of 2023 Cheltenham festival
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:40 , Michael Jones
Willie Mullins is up and running at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival thanks to El Fabiolo’s victory in the Arkle Challenge Trophy.
That is Mullins’ fifth Arkle win in the last nine years.
Ultima Handicap Chase latest odds
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:36 , Michael Jones
Here are the odds for the 2.50pm Ultima Handicap Chase from Betway:
Corach Rambler 13/2
Monbeg Genius 7/1
Fastorslow 8/1
Nassalam 17/2
Into Overdrive 10/1
Oscar Elite 10/1
The Goffer 11/1
Fantastikas 12/1
Happygolucky 14/1
The Big Breakaway 14/1
Threeunderthrufive 16/1
Cloudy Glen 22/1
Remastered 22/1
Fanon D’Estruval 25/1
The Wolf 25/1
Good Boy Bobby 28/1
Top Ville Ben 28/1
Harpers Brook 33/1
Laskalin 33/1
Tea Clipper 33/1
Glamorgan Duke 50/1
Iceo Madrik 50/1
Karl Philippe 50/1
El Fabiolo wins the Arkle Challenge trophy
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:32 , Michael Jones
Take a look at how El Fabiolo won the Arkle Challenge trophy.
El Fabiolo wins the Sporting Life Arkle Chase #ITVRacing | #CheltenhamFestival pic.twitter.com/wv27z6OdQG
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) March 14, 2023
Ultima Handicap Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:28 , Michael Jones
Next up is the three mile Ultima Handicap Chase before the big one, the Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy at 3.30pm.
Corach Rambler took the spoils for Lucinda Russell’s stable last year, and he is back with just a 6lb higher mark.
He is vying with Jonjo O’Neill’s Monbeg Genius, a novice who looks to be on a very fair mark despite having won his last three starts in handicaps.
Nassalam and Into Overdrive are seasoned over fences and should be in the mix too.
Dysart Dynamo is okay
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:23 , Michael Jones
Dysart Dynamo led the Arkle Challenge Trophy until the final jump where he went down under tired legs after hitting the fence.
The horse is fine and has been walked back to the paddock after his fall.
Winning jockey Paul Townend praises El Fabiolo
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:21 , Michael Jones
Winning jockey Paul Townend, who finished second in the first race, praised El Fabiolo saying: “ He came alive at the right time. The engine’s always been there.
“As he matures and gets stronger he can go out in trip but if he keeps winning two-milers that’s OK.”
Arkle Challenge trophy results
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:19 , Michael Jones
1 El Fabiolo - 11/10
2 Jonbon - 2/1
3 Saint Roi - 11/1
4 Straw Fan Jack - 50/1
EL FABIOLO WINS THE ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ CHASE
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:17 , Michael Jones
El Fabiolo kicks on after the last and storms ahead of Jonbon, he sprints over the finish line and earns the win for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend!
Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:15 , Michael Jones
El Fabiolo takes the last jump in first place ahead of Jonbon.
Dysart Dynamo falls!
Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:14 , Michael Jones
Three fences to go and Jonbon is closing on Dysart Dynamo with El Fabiolo asked to kick on. The leading three bunch up to each other a Saint Roi makes a move up from the middle of the field.
Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:13 , Michael Jones
Effernock Fizz at 150/1 is pushing up nicely and sits comfortably in fourth behind the leaders with eight fences to go. Dysart Dynamo has established a lead of two or three lengths over Jonbon.
Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:11 , Michael Jones
And they’re off! Dysart Dynamo sets off at a canter as expected and heads out to the front of the field with Jonbon and El Fabiolo close behind.
Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:03 , Michael Jones
The First Grade One race of the week is up next and the odds seem to be suggesting a clash between El Fabiolo - from the Willie Mullins yard - and Jonbon.
El Fabiolo impressively won at Leopardstown last time out while Jonbon has had a couple of wins at Warwick this season.
Last season they met over fences at the Aintree Grand National meeting with Jonbon winning by a neck, can he repeat that result this afternoon?
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
