The 2025 Cheltenham Festival is set to commence on Tuesday, March 11, ushering in four days of premier National Hunt racing. Check out our betting preview with the best betting odds from featured bookmaker William Hill.
Day One, traditionally known as Champion Day, features a series of high-caliber races that set the tone for the festival. Below is a comprehensive preview of each race scheduled for the opening day, including insights into featured runners and their current betting odds.
1. Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) – 1:20 PM
The festival traditionally kicks off with the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, a two-mile race that often reveals future stars. This year, the spotlight is on Kopek Des Bordes, trained by Willie Mullins, who has shown impressive form leading up to the festival. Currently, Kopek Des Bordes is favoured at odds of 5/6. Another notable contender is Workahead, offering value at a best price of 12/1, especially for each-way bettors.
2. Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) – 2:00 PM
The Arkle Trophy, a two-mile chase, is anticipated to be a thrilling contest. Majborough, another Willie Mullins trainee, has been dominant this season and is the current favourite at 8/13. Following the withdrawal of Sir Gino due to injury, Majborough’s position has strengthened. L’Eau du Sud is also garnering attention, with odds around 9/2, having displayed consistent performances throughout the season.
3. Ultima Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) – 2:40 PM
The Ultima Handicap Chase, covering approximately 3 miles and 1 furlong, is known for its competitiveness. This year’s entries include Crebilly and Gold Tweet, both low priced in the betting markets at 10/1 and 14/1, respectively at the time of writing. Punters should consider the depth of the field when making selections in this race.
4. Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 1) – 3:20 PM
The Mares’ Hurdle has become more intriguing with recent developments. The prominent contender here is Jade De Grugy, currently priced at 2/1. Additionally, there was much speculation about Lossiemouth switching from the Champion Hurdle to this event and this looks likely, the Gordon Elliott inmate priced at 9/4.
5. Unibet Champion Hurdle (Grade 1) – 4:00 PM
The feature race of the day, the Champion Hurdle, is set to be a highlight of the festival. Constitution Hill, trained by Nicky Henderson, is making a much-anticipated return after missing last year’s festival. He is the odds-on favourite at 4/6.The decision to enter Brighterdaysahead into this race adds excitement, with her odds currently at 2/1.
6. Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) – 4:40 PM
This juvenile handicap hurdle often presents opportunities for emerging talents. Trainers like Gordon Elliott and Willie Mullins typically have strong contenders in this race, however the leading contender at this stage is Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm-trained Stencil at 6/1. Punters are advised to monitor the declarations as the festival approaches.
7. National Hunt Chase (Novices’ Handicap) – 5:20 PM
The day’s finale, the National Hunt Chase, covers a grueling 3 miles and 6 furlongs. Recent changes now allow professional jockeys to participate, potentially influencing the dynamics of the race. Notable entries include Now Is The Hour at 4/1 and Haiti Couleurs at 5/1, both expected to perform well over the extended distance.
Viewing Information
For those unable to attend in person, the first six races each day will be broadcast live on ITV’s main channel, with the entire card available on Racing TV for subscribers.
Conclusion
Day One of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival promises a blend of emerging talents and established stars. With competitive fields and intriguing narratives unfolding, enthusiasts can anticipate a day rich in high-quality racing and potential surprises.
Please note: Betting markets are subject to change as the festival approaches. It’s advisable to consult updated sources closer to the event for the latest information.
