It is the opening day of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. The ground is currently described as Good to Soft. Here’s our tips for the day’s racing.
13:20 Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
Old Park Star
While Willie Mullins often dominates this race, Old Park Star has rock solid form for Nicky Henderson. His eighteen length victory at Haydock showed he has the speed and jumping ability required for this opener. He follows a similar profile to previous stable winners like Altior and Constitution Hill.
14:00 Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase
Kopek Des Bordes
He was a high class novice hurdler who won the Supreme last year and has transitioned to fences with an electric performance at Navan. Although Lulamba provides stiff British opposition, Kopek Des Bordes looks the class act for the Willie Mullins team.
14:40 Ultima Handicap Chase
Ole Ole
This Gavin Cromwell runner has been consistent with three runner up spots in competitive hurdles. He recorded a very strong speed figure at Leopardstown over the Christmas period and has been kept fresh for this specific target.
15:20 Champion Hurdle
Iroko
This horse is a previous festival winner having landed the Martin Pipe in 2023. He has taken well to larger obstacles and won well at Ascot on his return. He has been aimed at this race and stays the trip thoroughly, which is vital for this grueling handicap.
16:00 Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle
Lossiemouth
The decision to run her here instead of the Mares’ Hurdle is a major statement of intent. She is unbeaten in four starts at Cheltenham and the application of first time cheekpieces should help her travel even better. On her best form, she is the one the rest have to beat.
16:40 Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Madara
A dual winner for Sophie Leech in 2023/24 who shaped well in the Paddy Power December Gold Cup here in 2024.
17:20 National Hunt Chase
One Big Bang
This marathon trip should play to his strengths. He ran a fine race to finish fifth in the Pertemps Final last year and that stamina should stand him in good stead as the field thins out up the hill in the final race of the day.
