The 2025 Cheltenham Festival is set to commence on Tuesday, 11th March, offering an exhilarating start with a series of top-tier races that attract the finest talent in National Hunt racing. Here’s a comprehensive overview of Day One’s races, notable contenders, and the best available betting odds and bookmaker free bets as of 6th March 2025.
1. Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle (1:20 PM)
The festival’s second day kicks off with this Grade 1 hurdle over two miles and five furlongs, spotlighting the season’s leading novice hurdlers.
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Final Demand: Trained by Willie Mullins, this gelding has shown exceptional form, making him the favourite at 13/8.
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The New Lion: Dan Skelton’s entrant has been consistent throughout the season, currently priced at 5/2.
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The Yellow Clay: Gordon Elliott’s charge, available at 7/1, has demonstrated significant improvement in recent outings.
2. Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (2:00 PM)
This three-mile Grade 1 chase is a highlight for novice chasers, often serving as a springboard to future stardom.
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Ballyburn: Leading the market at 13/8, this Willie Mullins-trained gelding has been dominant this season, showcasing impeccable jumping skills.
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Dancing City: Another strong contender from Mullins’ yard, priced at 4/1, has shown promise in recent starts and could pose a significant threat.
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Better Days Ahead: With odds of 8/1, this Gordon Elliott-trained runner has the potential to surprise, especially if conditions suit.
3. Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (2:40 PM)
A competitive two-mile and five-furlong handicap hurdle that often features seasoned hurdlers and emerging talents alike.
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Langer Dan: Best odds of 16/1, has been in consistent form leading up to the festival, making him a popular choice among punters.
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Ballyadam: Also at 16/1, this Henry De Bromhead-trained runner has shown potential in recent outings and could offer value.
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Altobelli: Priced at 12/1, this past festival performer has been a reliable competitor and may well be in contention.
4. Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (3:20 PM)
A unique race run over Cheltenham’s cross-country course, covering approximately three miles and six furlongs, testing both horse and rider over a variety of obstacles.
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Stumptown: Favourite at 5/2, this Gavin Cromwell 8-year-old is a strong contender.
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Vanillier: With odds of 9/1, another Gavin Cromwell inmate which could pose a significant threat.
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Coko Beach: Priced at 20/1, this strong stayer relishes testing conditions and may well be in contention.
5. Queen Mother Champion Chase (4:00 PM)
The day’s feature race, the Queen Mother Champion Chase, is a two-mile Grade 1 chase attracting the elite chasers in the sport.
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Jonbon: The standout favourite at 10/11, trained by Nicky Henderson, has been in excellent form and is expected to deliver a strong performance.
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Energumene: With odds of 8/1, this Willie Mullins-trained runner has been a consistent performer and poses a genuine threat.
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Gaelic Warrior: Priced at 10/1, another contender from Mullins’ yard, has shown consistent performances throughout the season.
6. Grand Annual Handicap Chase (4:40 PM)
A fast and furious two-mile handicap chase that often features seasoned chasers and emerging talents alike.
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Libberty Hunter: Favourite at 10/1, has been impressive in recent starts and has festival experience, making him a popular choice among punters.
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Firefox: Close in the betting at 12/1, this Gordon Elliott-trained runner has shown potential in recent outings and could offer value.
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Third Time Lucki: Priced way out at 66/1, this Feral O’Brien-trained runner has been a reliable performer in past seasons and may well be a decent each-way option.
7. Champion Bumper (5:20 PM)
The concluding race of the day, a Grade 1 National Hunt flat race over two miles, showcasing the future stars of jump racing.
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Copacabana: Priced at 7/2, this leading hope from Willie Mullins’ yard has demonstrated remarkable potential in previous races, making him a strong contender.
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Gameofinches: Another Mullins hopeful at 9/2, this 6-year-old could be a significant player, reflecting his impressive track record.
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Kalypso’chance: Priced at 7/1, this Gordon Elliott contender has shown consistent performances throughout the season.
Betting Insights
Day Two of the Cheltenham Festival offers a blend of strong favourites and potential value bets. Punters may find opportunities in backing favourites like Jonbon in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, given his impressive track record. However, competitive fields in races like the Coral Cup and the Grand Annual Handicap Chase present some excellent chances for each-way betting.
Final Thoughts
As the festival unfolds, Day Two sets the stage with high-quality racing and numerous betting opportunities. Whether you’re siding with the favourites or seeking value in the outsiders, the second day promises excitement and the potential for memorable moments.
