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Cheltenham Racecourse
Cheltenham racecourse guide
Preview of the Cheltenham Festival course
Often referred to as the home of National Hunt racing, the main aim of Cheltenham racecourse is to provide the very best conditions underfoot for horses that participate in races there. After all a good racing surface is paramount and Cheltenham excels in this department at its countryside Prestbury Park location. Of course, special emphasis is given to making the Cheltenham Festival a truly magnificent racing spectacle. A very scenic course in morphology, it falls just below the hills of the Cotswold makes for a fantastic day for the racing neutrals should the desired sunshine arrive on racedays.
The Old Course
The main racecourse has two separate courses which both run in tangent alongside each other – the old and the new course. Both consist of a number of challenging, structurally sound fences which test the jumping ability of those horses that take them to the limit. Traditionally, the first two days of the Cheltenham Festival are run on the old course which is a one mile and four furlong oval with a three-hundred and fifty yard run in. Horses will swing the turf left-handed during their run-in which allows for an improved and smoother racing line.Fences on this course range from open ditches at the fourth and the sixth to a water jump at the third and jockeys must come to terms with the demands of this course as possible. Once the runners reach the top of the hill, the pace of the race almost always intensifies and those riders’ mistiming and diving over the jumps are sure to find themselves in a spot of trouble.
The New Course
The new course at Prestbury Park sees action the final two days of the Cheltenham Festival and is slightly larger oval than the old. It is a one mile five furlong oval but has a seemingly shorter run-in of two hundred and twenty yards. The runners and riders still swing this course left-handed. Open ditches are found at the third and the fifth and the water jump appears early at fence number two. This course was designed to facilitate a variety of different race distances with the minimum being just over two miles and the largest in excess of three. In all, four different distances are contested on this track in the festival and while both tracks are demanding they cater for the fastest racing speeds.
The Cross Country Course
Another relatively new addition at Cheltenham is the Cross Country course which conjoin sectors of the old course. In fact, the last three furlongs in the cross country races are run on this old course which creates a figure of eight trip. It conjoins features from both the old and the new courses and natural obstacles are laid out for steeplechase events.
Uphill run-in
The final task all runners and riders must overcome is Cheltenham’s stamina-testing uphill finish. After clearing the final fence the line is almost near but the nature of the landscape makes it one long hard slog but for the neutrals a terrific finish. Horses that look nigh on winning contests have come unstuck in the final stages of races at Cheltenham and when the tanks running on empty that finishing line appears to edging further and further away!
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Cheltenham Odds
Cheltenham Festival odds
Odds for the 2012 Cheltenham Festival
Odds for the Cheltenham Festival are now available for all races. Make sure you take advantage of the large number of generous free bet offers available for the 2011 Cheltenham Festival.
Gold Cup odds
The Gold Cup is the biggest race at the Cheltenham Festival, and odds are already avaailable for this great race. Currently Imperial Commander and Kauto Star are disputing favouritism at odds of 5/1.
Supreme Novices Hurdle odds
The Supreme novices hurdle is the opening race of the 2011 Cheltenham Festival. Punters will be looking to get off to a good start with this race, with Cue Card the red hot favourite.
Champion Hurdle odds
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Handicap Winning Trends
Cheltenham handicap winning trends?
Cheltenham Festival race guide – Handicap history
Of the last 64 Handicaps at the festival, 27 have been won by horses who were successful on their previous start. This statistic must come into the thoughts of all those punters trying to pick the winner of the eleven handicaps at the meeting in March. To put it as a percentage, horses who have won their previous outing have a 42% strike rate from the last 64 handicap contests and one should bear this is mind for this year’s festival.
The five handicap hurdles (Coral Cup, Fred Winter Juvenile, Pertemps Final, County Hurdle and Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys) are a great place to start when backing a horse with previous winning form. That’s because over 50% of those that have won these races over the last decade had been successful on their previous start. It can sometimes be difficult to give every runner in a large handicap field the time they deserve when it comes to analysing form. But by sticking to the general rule of backing horses that have won on their last outing one must hold every chance of being rewarded. One must ask the question – Can the horse build on its winning form and win a race like this?
If the answer is yes, and the credentials are there in black and white then the next handicap winner might just be one of those that had won last time out. But records are there to be broken and they are every year. And for this reason it would come as no surprise to see a horse with no great winning form win a handicap contest. But what we are trying to distinguish is the form and the facts and by backing a winner last time out, one might be in with a greater shout of collecting at the end of the race.
The Coral Cup and The Fred Winter are two of the races which have been dominated by winners who had won last time out. In fact from 2005-2010, nine of the last ten winners of both these events all had winning form before heading to the Cheltenham festival. This is a statistic that cannot be overlooked in 2011 and one which might just be further reinforced after the four-day period in March. With some of the handicap races being relatively new additions to the Cheltenham festival card, often there is precious little to go regarding form from the race the previous year. This is true of the Fred Winter Novices’ Handicap Hurdle, and although there’s not a lot to go on yet, that statistic keeps appearing – three of the past four winners of this race were successful last time out. So keep it at the forefront of ones mind and hopefully it will pave the way for a profitable 2011 Cheltenham festival!
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Cheltenham Gold Cup Betting
Cheltenham Gold Cup
Cheltenham Festival race guide – Gold Cup betting
The showpiece event of the entire festival could well spring a few surprises. Imperial Commander is the obvious choice but Nigel Twiston-Davies’ reigning champion hasn’t seen a racecourse in 2011 and his lack of preparation could prove a hindrance. Two time Gold Cup winner Kauto Star cannot be written off despite his defeat at the he hands of Long Run in the King George. Long Run is in with a shout on that form but is untested at Cheltenham and no 6-year-old has won this race since Mill House in 1963. With that in mind, it may be worth sticking with experience and DENMAN has an abundance of it – second to Imperial Commander in this last year and winner in 2008 he could have one big run left in the tank. Get a free £25 bet with William Hill.
The Gold Cup is like no other at the festival, millions and millions of pounds will exchange hands for the most prestigious event in the National Hunt calendar. The race itself, is ran over a distance of three miles and two-and-half furlongs which will take in twenty-two fences in the process. The reward is massive- Imperial Commander’s connections scooped £475,000 in prize money for his seven length victory over Denman last year and that looks set to increase for the 2011 renewal. Horses aged five years plus can contest this great event although older horses have had the majority of success in this race since it began way back in 1924. General Miller is one exception to that rule, he won this race as a 5yo in 1932 and retained his title for the following four years – a truly once in a lifetime horse.
Ante-post Betting
Kauto Star
But let’s focus on those who will be fancied to win it this year. Kauto Star will surely go off favourite despite his crashing fall last year. Paul Nicholls’ star chaser went of 8/11 odds on but fell approaching the home straight – so the question remains how much has that mishap affected his confidence. Well, not very if his latest run at Down Royal in November is anything to go by, he ran out a four length winner on his first run since that fall and all looks to be well ahead of the big showdown. Keep an eye out for his route to the Gold Cup and if he successfully wins all his trials he will be very hard to beat.
Denman
Stablemate Denman is another one of those tipped to score for a second time on the biggest of all stages. Nicholls’ has vowed to keep the pair apart in the run up to March but this 2008 winner cannot be ruled out. He currently finds himself as high as 12/1 with some firms but surely that price will disappear as we near race time. He ran an excellent race last year but couldn’t quite live with Imperial commander but those who believe he’s past should think again.
Imperial Commander
Surprisingly, Imperial Commander doesn’t head the market after Paddy Brennan’s success aboard him last time. The Nigel Twiston-Davies trained chaser currently finds himself second favourite at 5/1 general behind Kauto Star. That’s because Kauto has had the measure of him on no fewer than three occasions before, and on his reappearance after his Cheltenham success he blundered and fell in the Bowl Chase at Aintree. But you can draw a line through that run, because if this classy 9yo can put his best foot forward he can come close in his shot for a consecutive Gold Cup.
Others to watch…
Other potential 2011 Gold Cup runners to be feared are What a Friend part owned by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. He’s another from the Paul Nicholls yard and he is in with a chance at 14/1 in the ante-post should he be entered. Nicky Henderson’s Punchestown’s props up the leading few at 16/1 and cannot be discounted. Although, these are very early markets and some may opt out of the Gold Cup closer to the time.
Favourite backer?
Four favourites have won this feature in the last decade and the market generally gets this one spot on. The largest price winner in this time frame was 2006 champ War of Attrition at 15/2 so edge your bets close to the head of the market. They are usually the ones with the form already in the book and Kauto’s fall last time may mean for an open market so be sure to get a good price about your fancy. Take in the Hennessy Gold Cup and the King George on Boxing Day as they are good trials when trying to suss out this race.
Whatever the outcome, The Gold Cup is certain to be a real thriller for all the racing public. Records will be made no doubt and some may even be enhanced – but can Kauto complete a three-timer or could there be a new horse that writes his name into the Gold Cup history books?
Gold Cup free bets
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Cheltenham Festival free bets
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Cheltenham Gold Cup
Cheltenham Gold Cup Betting Preview
The Gold Cup is the feature race of the Cheltenham Festival, run on the final day over 3m and 2.5 furlongs. Producing a number of spectacular races over the years and making the careers of a number of horses, most notably in recent years Best Mate.
Gold Cup Tip – Kauto Star 2/1 – Free £25 bet at Tote Sport
Kauto Star is justifiably favourite for this race and looks set to follow up his 2007 victory in the same race. Kauto Star’s ability as a fantastic jumps horse is proven with numerous Grade 1 wins including 3 King Georges. Last year’s winner could be a threat, but a very disappointing return from a long injury last time out makes even greater appeal for backing Kauto Star. Bet now at Tote Sport for the best odds and £25 free bet
Gold Cup Free Bets
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Cheltenham Free Bets
Cheltenham Festival Free Bets
Here you will find the biggest and best free bets for the 2013 Cheltenham Festival. All these free bet offers are from trustworthy bookmakers who are throwing out generous offers to attract new customers during this busy betting period. Each free bet requires you to place a qualifying bet first, then you will be awarded with a free bet to the same value. The Cheltenham Festival is a great time to open many accounts with a variety of betting companies to take advantage of different odds and generous free bets
William Hill
Bet 365
Paddy Power
Victor Chandler
Betfred
Free bets are one of the most vital tools for punters betting at the Cheltenham Festival. With so many quality races packed into four days of racing, most punters end up having at least one bet on every race. Rather than spending your own money, why not have a free bet? With all the Cheltenham free bets featured on this site, you get to keep your winnings, so what better way to enjoy the 2011 Cheltenham Festival than with a free bet?
Get a Cheltenham Free Bet here
If you are looking for a free bet for the Cheltenham Festival you have come to the right place! We have over £1000 in free bets available from leading UK bookmakers to enjoy at the Cheltenham Festival.
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Cheltenham Tips
Cheltenham Betting Tips
Picking winners at the Cheltenham Festival is tough with some many great horses competing against eachother on one of the toughest tracks in British horse racing. Our team of expert betting pundits provide their free betting tips here for each day of the Cheltenham Festival.
Cheltenham Festival day 1 tips
1:30: Supreme Novices Hurdle – WIN – Darlan 11/2 Blue Square
Each Way – Prospect Wells 16/1 with BoyleSports
2:05: Arkle Challenge Trophy – WIN – Al Ferof 10/3 Blue Square
Each Way – Cue Card 15/2 Stan James
2.40: JLT Handicap Chase – WIN – Our Mick 10/1 William Hill
Each Way – The Package 13/2 Blue Square
3:20: Champion Hurdle – WIN – Hurricane Fly 10/11 Paddy Power
Each Way – Oscars well 14/1 Bet Victor
4:00 Cross Country Handicap Chase – WIN – Garde Champetre 10/1 Boylesports
Each Way – Balthazar King 14/1 Boylesports
4:40: OLBG Mares Hurdle – WIN – Quevega 1/2 William Hill
Each Way – Violin Davis 25/1 Stan James
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Victor Chandler
Bet 365
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Champion Hurdle
Cheltenham Champion Hurdle
Cheltenham Festival race guide – The Champion Hurdle
The highlight of the first day of racing, and a return to Cheltenham for last year’s winner – Hurricane Fly. Willie Mullins’ representative made an eye-catching reappearance when winning at Leopardstown in January and he must go close again in his bid to defend his crown. He’s currently odds against with all bookmakers to land this championship race for the second consecutive year, although 2010 victor Binocular will prove no pushover after missing the Festival twelve months ago. Zarkandar stayed on well under pressure to take last month’s Betfair Hurdle and he should make a bold bid too.
Champion Hurdle Form
The form in the run up to this race can prove a good starting point when analysing the chances of each runner. Irish horses have a decent record in this one so it might be worth monitoring the Irish Champion Hurdle which is scheduled to take place at Leopardstown in late January. Many horses who competed in the 2010 Champion Hurdle at the festival will tackle this trip once more so be sure to analyse their performances from twelve months ago. Still unsure what to back? Take in other trial runs such as the International Hurdle at Cheltenham in December, which in essence is a dress rehearsal of the big race in March where horses can sample course and conditions.
In the past runnings of this event, longshots have defied their odds. The aforementioned Punjabi held on gamely in 2009 scoring by a neck at 22/1, he was also third the previous year at 25/1. Sublimity in 2007 won at 16/1 also, so there is value to be had in the Champion Hurdle but just a word on those gunning for Binocular – he was a beaten 6/4 favourite in 2009 and is likely to go off market leader after his win last year. McCoy rode him to victory last time, but how will the horse fair this time?
Victor Chandler
Bet 365
Cheltenham Festival free bets
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Champion Bumper
Cheltenham Champion Bumper
Champion Bumper betting verdict
The most prestigious National Hunt Flat Race concludes the day’s action on Wednesday where Willie Mullins will hope to repeat his 2006 success with Cousin Vinny, when he saddles Champagne Fever. But Royal Guardsman could play a part for Colin Tizzard following his eye-catching seven-length win in an Ascot bumper last month. The winner of the Champion Bumper often develop into leading performers over the obstacles and it would be no surprise to see this year’s winner make that transition. Get a free £25 bet with William Hill.
Champion Bumper odds
Champion Bumper Irish Influence
But he isn’t the only Irish racehorse trainer to be feared in this event, after all they have displayed a great deal of dominance over their British rivals taking eight of the last twelve runnings. Dunguib won it in 2009 and the Philip Fenton trained 7yo was backed into 4/6 for the Supreme Novices where it seemed the whole of Ireland were banking on him. He fluffed his lines that day, but it spoke volumes of the type of horses that come out of the Champion Bumper and it will be interesting to see a whole new batch of recruits in March.
Flat Jockeys have saddled runners in this race in previous years and often compete in the hope of riding a Cheltenham festival winner. Jamie Spencer was the last out and out flat jockey to taste victory in this contest in 2002 but since the flat riders have been out of luck. Whichever jockey becomes victorious; the horse that wins this race is destined for a big future over obstacles. Previous winners of this Bumper have developed into leading hurdlers and chasers but who will make the transition this year?
Victor Chandler
Bet 365
Cheltenham Festival free bets
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Bryne Group Plate
Cheltenham Byrne Group plate
Cheltenham Festival race guide – Byrne Group plate betting
Whether you are counting your winning returns after the success of Big Bucks or staring at your empty wallet – the Bryne Group Plate provides yet another chance to make some more profit from those bookies or in the worst case scenario a chance to recoup some of your losses! Ran over a distance over two miles and five furlongs and with seventeen flights of fences to be negotiated, this handicap steeplechase is a tough one to get right and previous market vibes have proved inconclusive with 66/1 and 33/1 winners arriving home first in both 2008 and 2009. And the big prices didn’t stop there, Great Endeavour under a good ride from Danny Cook was an 18/1 winner the last time this race was ran. That’s an enormous average winning price of 39/1 in the last three runnings alone!
Byrne Group plate odds
Handicap steeplechases always draw large fields and last year saw twenty-four horses five years or older waved on by the starter’s orders and we can expect a similar number contesting the 2011 renewal. A long list of runner’s means there will be ample chances to pick out the winner but it may be best to stay clear of the favourite, one hasn’t won since the 1980s. And it’s very difficult to iron out any reoccurring trends in this race as horses with a range of different ages have been successful although in the 2000s at least Venetia Williams has had two 8yos in the winning enclosure. The 2009 Grand National winning trainer with Mon Mome won this in 2007 and 2009 but can she keep this sequence going with another in 2011? Nicky Henderson is another like Venetia who has tasted Plate success on two occasions during the last decade so keep an eye out for runners from both yards.
Byrne Group plate Form
Analysing the form of runners in this race has proved fruitless in recent renewals but look for those horses that have had previous Cheltenham Festival experience and maybe those that have had a relatively light National Hunt racing season. The best horse in the race probably won’t win the 2011 Byrne Group Plate as past results have shown, so as a general rule of thumb look for those who have the necessary chasing attributes – jumping technique, good pace and stamina. They should all be firmly embedded in ones mindset.
Your guesses for this one are probably as good as mine – the top yards and stables always deserve respect and those are the horses to keep on your side. Look back at your picks form and if improvement is likely there is a good chance it may come in this race as the jumping season enters full swing.
Byrne Group plate free bets
Cheltenham Festival free bets
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