The Ultima Handicap Chase takes place on Day One of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival and as such, now is an excellent time to register a new betting account with any of our featured UK bookmakers, whereupon you can benefit from some great Cheltenham free bets, price boosts, cash-back offers and enhanced places.
Ultima Handicap Chase Preview and Best Odds
The Ultima Handicap Chase, a prominent Grade 3 event at the Cheltenham Festival, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 2025. As the first handicap race of the festival, it consistently attracts a competitive field, offering both participants and spectators an exhilarating experience.
Race Overview
Covering approximately 3 miles and 1 furlong, the Ultima Handicap Chase challenges horses aged five years and older. Participants must navigate 20 fences on Cheltenham’s demanding course, testing their stamina, jumping prowess, and tactical acumen. Historically, this race has been a proving ground for horses that later excel in prestigious events such as the Grand National.
Leading Contenders and Betting Odds
As the festival approaches, several horses have emerged as notable contenders:
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Masaccio: Trained by Alan King, Masaccio is currently among the favourites, with best odds of 14/1. Despite lacking previous experience at Cheltenham, his recent performances have demonstrated significant potential, making him a strong contender.
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The Changing Man: Under the guidance of Joe Tizzard, The Changing Man is also favoured, with odds at 9/1. His consistent form this season and adaptability to various track conditions position him as a formidable competitor.
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Johnnywho: With odds at 12/1, this horse has shown promise in recent outings. Trained by Jonjo O’Neill, Johnnywho’s stamina and jumping ability make him a noteworthy contender in this field.
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Broadway Boy: Priced at 10/1, Broadway Boy has a proven track record at Cheltenham, which could provide a competitive edge. His familiarity with the course and previous successes make him a compelling each-way bet.
Key Race Statistics and Trends
Analyzing historical data offers insights into potential outcomes:
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Age: The race often favours horses aged seven to nine. Notably, 10 of the last 12 winners have fallen within this age bracket, suggesting that maturity and experience are advantageous.
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Official Ratings: A higher official rating correlates with success in this event. Specifically, 10 of the last 12 winners were rated 140 or higher, indicating that class plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of the Ultima Handicap Chase.
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Course Experience: Familiarity with Cheltenham’s unique course is beneficial. All of the last 12 winners had at least one prior start at the venue, with eight having two or more appearances, underscoring the importance of course experience.
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Recent Form: Entering the race in good form is advantageous. Nine of the last 12 winners had recorded at least one win in the current season, highlighting the value of recent success.
Historical Context
Established in 1946, the Ultima Handicap Chase has evolved into a prestigious event within the National Hunt calendar. Several winners have subsequently achieved success in the Grand National, including Royal Tan and Rough Quest, emphasizing the race’s significance as a precursor to future stardom. The 2023 and 2024 editions saw Corach Rambler and Chianti Classico secure victories, respectively, showcasing the race’s competitive nature.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ultima Handicap Chase promises a compelling contest, blending seasoned campaigners with emerging talents. While The Changing Man and Broadway Boy currently lead the betting markets, the depth of the field ensures a wide-open race. Punters should consider factors such as age, official ratings, course experience, and recent form when making their selections. As always, it’s advisable to consult reputable bookmakers for the latest odds and bonus offers such as free bets, price boosts and enhanced places.
