Cheltenham Festival 2024 LIVE: 5.30 result, tips and odds after Willie Mullins celebrates 100th winner

Willie Mullins reached the magical 100-winner mark at the Cheltenham Festival as the Patrick Mullins-ridden Jasmin De Vaux provided him with a 13th victory in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.

Mullins is out on his own as the most successful trainer in the history of National Hunt racing’s showpiece meeting, with his tally of 94 ahead of this week putting him well clear of his great friend and rival Nicky Henderson on 73.

Having sent a terrifically strong squad across the Irish Sea, it was a matter of when, not if, Mullins would reach the century, and following a Tuesday treble courtesy of Champion Hurdle hero State Man, Mares’ Hurdle victor Lossiemouth and Gaelic Warrior in the Arkle, the figure loomed large.

With Ballyburn and Fact To File delighting favourite-backers in the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle and Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase respectively, El Fabiolo was widely expected to be the history maker in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, but he was dramatically pulled up after hitting the fifth fence and the wait went on.

The Coral Cup and Grand Annual also came and went without a Mullins winner, but it was fitting that the big one came in the Festival race he has won more than any other as Jasmin De Vaux obliged at 9-2 with the trainer’s son in the saddle.

“It’s a wonderful day, it’s fantastic. As much I enjoy what’s happening, I think of my colleague and fellow trainer Nicky Henderson and what’s happened with his yard this week,” Mullins said.

Follow all of our coverage from the 2024 Cheltenham Festival below plus get the best each-way odds and tips for Day 2 right here:

Cheltenham Festival LIVE: Odds, tips and results from Day 2

• Day 2 of the Cheltenham Festival brings more excitement

• 17:30 result: Jasmin De Vaux wins the Champion Bumper to bring up Willie Mullins’ 100th winner

• 16.50 result - Unexpected Party wins the Grand Annual Handicap Chase for Dan Skelton

• 16:00 result - Huge upset as El Fabiolo goes down and Captain Guinness wins Queen Mother Champion Chase

• 15:15 result - Langer Dan wins Coral Cup for second year running

• 14:30 result - Willie Mullins reaches 99 Cheltenham wins as Fact To File takes the Novices’ Steeple Chase

• 13:45 result - Mullins opens up with another winner as Ballyburn cruises to Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle glory

• Cross Country Steeple Chase cancelled due to weather, changing Wednesday’s race times

• Nicky Henderson withdraws multiple horses from Wednesday’s racing including Jonbon

• Cheltenham Festival tips: Experts on best bets and 10 horses to watch on Day 2

• Rachael Blackmore’s battling win kicks off Cheltenham Festival with a bang

• Cheltenham Festival 2024 race card, schedule and start times

Willie Mullins’ milestone win is inevitable result of predictable day at Cheltenham

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:14 , Mike Jones

It was always going to happen this week. Irish trainer Willie Mullins arrived at the Cheltenham Festival needing six wins from the 28 possible races to bring up a landmark no other trainer has accomplished: 100 victories at the Cheltenham Festival.

Mullins has been the leading trainer here in nine of the last 11 years, he’s prolific and with a brilliant jockey, in Paul Townend, riding his best horses there was an inevitable feeling about him reaching the figure.

Three winners on the opening day certainly helped and when British trainer Nicky Henderson announced on Wednesday morning that he was withdrawing up to six horses from the rest of the Festival, many that could have challenged the Mullins stable, that inevitability became a certainty.

Style Wednesday lived up to the name as Mullins’ jockeys, Townend, Mark Walsh and son Patrick, combined for another three winners in what turned out to be as predictable a day as you can get in horseracing with the only major shock coming in the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Willie Mullins’ milestone win is inevitable result of predictable day at Cheltenham

St Patrick’s Thursday’s race schedule

Wednesday 13 March 2024 19:50 , Mike Jones

• 1.30 - Turners Novices’ Chase, 2m 4f

• 2.10 - Pertemps Network Final (Handicap Hurdle), 3m

• 2.50 - Ryanair Steeple Chase, 2m 4 1/2f

• 3.30 - Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle, 3m

• 4.10 - TrustATrader Plate (Handicap Chase), 2m 4 1/2f

• 4.50 - Ryanair Mares Novices’ Hurdle, 2m 1f

• 5.30 - Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Chase, 3m 2f

Cheltenham Festival 2024: Results, winners and updates from day 2

Wednesday 13 March 2024 19:25 , Mike Jones

A family affair in the Champion Bumper. Patrick Mullins wins the race with Jasmin De Vaux for father and trainer Willie Mullins.

Wednesday’s Cheltenham Festival winners

Wednesday 13 March 2024 19:00 , Mike Jones

13:45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle, 2m 5f - Ballyburn

14:30 - Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase, 3m 1/2f - Fact To File

15:15 - Coral Cup Hurdle (Handicap Hurdle Race), 2m 5f - Langer Dan

16:00 - Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase, 2m - Captain Guinness

16:50 - Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Handicap Chase, 2m - Unexpected Party

17:30 - Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Standard Open NH Flat Race), 2m 1/2f - Jasmin De Vaux

Henry de Bromhead talks Captain Guinness

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:52 , Mike Jones

Captain Guinness trainer Henry de Bromhead after the shock win in the Queen Mother Champion Chase: “I’m so negative I just hoped he would run well. We’ve had a tricky season.

“It was great to see him back. We always said he deserved a Grade One win so much - this is incredible.

“Expectations are lowered when there is an odds-on favourite - but it is a horse race.”

How the Cheltenham Festival provides the finest climax to the jump racing season

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:46 , Mike Jones

Every sport has its peak. That one test of endurance, ability, skill, and luck. For professional footballers and rugby stars it would be the World Cup, England cricketers may point to the Ashes, for National Hunt jockeys? That pinnacle is the Cheltenham Festival.

Four days of demanding racing, against the best horses and riders, in front of a bumper crowd with prestige, glory, and prize money all on the line.

At Cheltenham there’s a champion race each day with Tuesday hosting the Champion Hurdle, Wednesday the Queen Mother Champion Chase, Thursday the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle and Friday culminating with the 100th anniversary of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Victory in any of these ensures horse and rider get their names in the history books. Winning the Gold Cup puts them on the verge of legendary status.

How the Cheltenham Festival provides the finest climax to the jump racing season

Willie Mullins on his son Patrick

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:32 , Mike Jones

“I thought my lifetime achievement was when I had a winner here in Cheltenhamin the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle back in 1995 and who ever dreamt any trainer, never mind me, could do it .

“The team of owners we have help and I can’t train winners without a team of owners who have horses and then the team from my wife Jackie, to David Casey, Patrick, Ruby [Walsh], all our head people, it’s huge for them. I think they are probably going to enjoy it more than I will. It’s extraordinary stuff.”

“For Patrick to do it makes it very special and to do it for one of my biggest owners [Simon Munir and Isaac Souede]. The team of owners we have make the job what it is, I can’t do it without them. They all praise each other when they have a winner and share in each other’s disappointment. Without owners I wouldn’t be here, none of us would, it’s their sport.

“I was really pleased that Patrick was the one to do it because I wasn’t sure he was on the right one but he was spot on and I was wrong. I’m just delighted, I wouldn’t say emotional. When I started out I didn’t think anyone would ever train 100 Cheltenham winners and I certainly didn’t think it would be me. People were saying I should have done it last year!”

Patrick Mullins on working with his dad

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:24 , Mike Jones

Champion Bumper winning jockey Patrick Mullins, spoke to Racing TV about what makes his dad Willie so successful: “In his early 60s instead of consolidating, he went out and got more horses and more owners.

“Then there’s the calibre of staff here and the owners he has built. He has made the very most of everything he has been able to.”

What’s it like working with him? “Several headaches. He could say something one day and then give out the next day for doing it. He is always chopping and changing. He can’t be told no. He has outside the box thinking, at times it can be like man from the moon, but enough times it works.

“He is a funny man in that the more you try to tell him to do something, the more he will try to do the opposite!”

On Jasmin Du Vaux: “This horse had nothing going against him. When I had a look under the bonnet there was plenty there.

“I wanted him wide. He was probably further back than I’d have liked but every time I wanted him to make the ground he was able to do it.”

More from Willie Mullins

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:17 , Mike Jones

“It’s a wonderful day, it’s fantastic.

“I thought my lifetime achievement was when I had a winner here in Cheltenham in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle back in 1995 and who ever dreamt any trainer, never mind me, could do it.

“The team of owners we have helped and I can’t train winners without a team of owners who have horses and then the team from my wife Jackie, to David Casey, Patrick, Ruby (Walsh), all our head people, it’s huge for them. I think they are probably going to enjoy it more than I will.

“It’s extraordinary stuff.”

Jasmin De Vaux wins the Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:04 , Mike Jones

Full results:

1st - Jasmin De Vaux (Mr P W Mullins) 9-2

2nd - Romeo Coolio (K M Donoghue) 18-1

3rd - Jalon D’oudairies (J W Kennedy) 3-1 Fav

Willie Mullins reacts to reaching 100 wins

Wednesday 13 March 2024 18:01 , Mike Jones

Following his son’s win in the Champion Bumper Willie Mullins said: “It’s a wonderful day, it’s fantastic. As much I enjoy what’s happening, I think of my colleague and fellow trainer Nicky Hendersonand what’s happened with his yard this week.

“That’s always a worry that we have in the two or three weeks coming up to Cheltenham, that something will come in and bite you from outside.

“As much as we’re enjoying it, I don’t know how he must be feeling. You want competition and it must be gutting for him. You’d like good opposition to have fun with because I’m sure he would have beaten us a few times this week.”

Jasmin De Vaux wins the Champion Bumper!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:58 , Mike Jones

Patrick Mullins speaks to Racing TV: “I am very privileged to get the 100 for my dad, a special moment. When we lost the Gigginstown horses. In his early 60s he went out and got more owners, starting with Rich Ricci. Everything counts.

“He’s never standing still. It’s outside the box. Sometimes it can be man with the moon. Never fall out with people; Gigginstown, they’re back with us.”

Jasmin De Vaux wins the Champion Bumper!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:45 , Mike Jones

Full results:

1st - Jasmin De Vaux (Mr P W Mullins) 9-2

2nd - Romeo Coolio (K M Donoghue) 18-1

3rd - Jalon D’oudairies (J W Kennedy) 3-1 Fav

Jasmin De Vaux wins the Champion Bumper!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:36 , Mike Jones

Willie Mullins has his 100! It’s a wonderful moment as the race is won by his son Patrick atop Jasmin De Vaux who left it late but timed his move expertly.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:36 , Mike Jones

Jasmin De Vaux come through the pack using the downhill brilliantly. Romeo Coolio nods into the lead but Willie Mullins’ contender is catching him.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:34 , Mike Jones

Romeo Coolio and Argento Boy make progress as the approach the top of the hill. Too close to call from here. Teeshan still leads.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:33 , Mike Jones

Teeshan works his way to the front of the field and is the new pace setter as they reach the halfway stage. Behind him the field bunch closely together.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:32 , Mike Jones

The Yellow Clay edges out into the lead with Quebecois and Cantico rear the front. This is a two mile flat race so there’s no danger of losing pace over the jumps.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:30 , Mike Jones

And they’re off! There’s a big bustle as the horses bomb away from the start.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:27 , Mike Jones

The field is heading out to the post for the final race of the day. It’s another big pack so don’t be surprised if an outsider comes through to win this one.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:23 , Mike Jones

Can Willie Mullins bring up his 100 today? He’s got one race left to do it and has a few contenders who could take him to the achievement.

The last race of day two gets going in just a few minutes time.

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:18 , Mike Jones

Latest odds:

• Jalon Doudairies 7/2

• Jasmin De Vaux 4/1

• The Yellow Clay 7/1

• You Oughta Know 9/1

• Cantico 11/1

• Fleur Au Fusil 12/1

• Teeshan 14/1

• Argento Boy 20/1

• Romeo Coolio 20/1

• Sixmilebridge 22/1

• Cest Ta Chance 25/1

• Bill Joyce 33/1

• Quebecois 33/1

• Royal Infantry 40/1

• Sounds Victorius 80/1

• Fishery Lane 100/1

• Stavvy 100/1

• Union Avenue 150/1

• Dirty Den 200/1

• Odds via Oddschecker

Reaction from Dan Skelton after Unexpected Party’s win

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:16 , Mike Jones

Unexpected Party trainer Dan Skelton on another handicap landed, speaking to the BBC: “It is remarkable really, I’m proud of the horses, they are running out of their skins. It is magic. Unexpected Party went very well all the way through but he really needed those last two jumps.”

Cheltenham 17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:13 , Mike Jones

Willie Mullins has a lot of horses racing in this one but Jasmin De Vaux, ridden by his son Patrick is arguably the best one. Others from the Mullins stable include You Oughta Know, Cantico and Fleur Au Fusil.

Gordon Elliott is well represented too, with Jalon D’Oudairies, unbeaten in two, vying for the favourites tag with Jasmin De Vaux.

He is joined in the field by The Yellow Clay, who is also interesting.

Unexpected Party wins the Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:06 , Mike Jones

The Skeltons are having a fantastic day and are keeping the British end up. Two wins, one in the Coral Cup and one in the Grand Annual Handicap, recorded Britain’s second and third winners of the Festival.

Unexpected Party wins the Grand Annual Handicap Chase!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 17:04 , Mike Jones

Full results:

1st - Unexpected Party (Harry Skelton) 12-1

2nd - Libberty Hunter (H Cobden) 6-1

3rd - Path D’oroux (K M Donoghue) 10-1

4th - Sa Fureur (J W Kennedy) 4-1 Fav

Unexpected Party wins the Grand Annual Handicap Chase!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:58 , Mike Jones

The grey horse trained by Dan Skelton stays on and ekes every so slowly ahead. Liberty Hunter attempts to close him down but doesn’t get close.

It’s a second winner for the Skeltons!

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:57 , Mike Jones

The final fence sees Unexpected Party leap over in first with Liberty Hunter chasing in second place. It’s a race to the line....

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:56 , Mike Jones

Unexpected Party, Dan Skelton’s best chance, eases up to the front with Saint Roi drifting out wide for Willie Mullins. Liberty Hunter has good legs and moves up.

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:55 , Mike Jones

Gemirande leads by two to three lengths over the fifth fence ahead of Calico. The Folkes Tiara makes a mistake over the fence and is struggling already.

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:53 , Mike Jones

Maskada is up near the front and the horses get up to speed. Gemirande and Calico are nudging ahead too.

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:52 , Mike Jones

And they’re off! A false start results into the field being told to reset and walk back to the tape. Again they approach too quickly and are told to retreat again.

The third effort is a standing start and they’re away.

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:47 , Mike Jones

Willie Mullins has never had a handicap winner at the Cheltenham Festival but has a chance today with Saint Roi who is being backed into the favourites tag.

Cheltenham 16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase odds

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:44 , Mike Jones

• Libberty Hunter 4/1

• Madara 11/2

• Saint Roi 15/2

• Sa Fureur 15/2

• Maskada 10/1

• Hardy Du Seuil 11/1

• Path Doroux 12/1

• Unexpected Party 14/1

• Solness 16/1

• Harpers Brook 16/1

• Triple Trade 25/1

• Calico 25/1

• The King Of Prs 28/1

• Gemirande 40/1

• The Folkes Tiara 40/1

• Frere Darmes 50/1

Willie Mullins on El Fabiolo

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:38 , Mike Jones

El Fabiolo trainer Willie Mullins, speaking to ITV Racing: “He run a cracker. Delighted for Henry and for Rachael. Gentleman De Mee ran a cracker so we are delighted.

“El Fabiolo was low over a couple of the fences and I was very concerned. Disappointing.”

Captain Guinness owner speaks to BBC Radio 5 Live

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:28 , Mike Jones

Winning owner Declan Landy giving his immediate reaction to BBC Radio 5 Live: “Unbelievable, I’m shocked, lost for words. We were hoping to be second like we were last year.

“With the last run we were confident of a good run - but that’s unbelievable.”

‘Even God can have a bad day’ - Willie Mullins reacts to Queen Mother Champion Chase defeat

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:23 , Luke Baker

So, the wait for Willie Mullins’ 100th Cheltenham winner goes on. He’ll get it this week for sure though.

Here’s how he reacted to his heavy favourite El Fabiolo missing out on glory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase - as classy as you would expect, congratulating Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore for leading Captain Guinness to glory.

‘It’s unbelievable’ - Rachael Blackmore wins Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:16 , Luke Baker

A stunned Rachael Blackmore reflects on the upset win for Captain Guinness in the Queen Mother Champion Chase

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase results

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:10 , Luke Baker

Wow. No one saw that coming. El Fabiolo sprawled on landing after jumping a fence and that left the race wide open.

Elixir De Nutz then faded and Edwardstone also fell over one of the last fences, leaving it as a head to head battle up the famous Cheltenham hill.

And Rachael Blackmore led Captain Guinness to a famous win over Gentleman de Mee

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase results

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:07 , Luke Baker

Wow. Wow. Wow. The most dramatic race of the meet so far and Rachael Blackmore takes advantage of El Fabiolo’s fall to ride Captain Guinness to glory for Henry de Bromhead. Huge!

Willie Mullins will have to wait for his 100th win

• 1. Captain Guinness 11/1

• 2. Gentleman de Mee 22/1

• 3. Funambule Sivola 125/1

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:06 , Luke Baker

They surge up the hill, Captain Guinness is tying up and Gentleman de Mee closing but Captain Guinness holds on to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Gentleman de Mee second and Funambule Sivola third as the only other finisher!

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:05 , Luke Baker

Captain Guinness leads by a couple of lengths over the last. Straight shootout between him and Gentleman de Mee.

But here comes Gentleman de Mee!

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:04 , Luke Baker

Edwardstone and Captain Guinness up the hill. Gentleman de Mee also there.

Edwardstone falls at the second last!

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:04 , Luke Baker

Over the third-last, Edwardstone and Captain Guinness neck and neck, both leap it well. Elixir De Nutz off the back now

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:03 , Luke Baker

The heavy favourite El Fabiolo is gone and this race is wide open now. The horse looks fine, just an awkward landing over the fence - shouldn’t be a seirous injury.

Edwardstone still making the running as they jump the fourth-last. Funambule Sivola falling off the back so four contenders

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:02 , Luke Baker

OH MY WORD! EL FABIOLO IS OUT! He makes a mess of the ninth-last fence, lands awkwardly and Paul Townend pulls him up

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:02 , Luke Baker

Edwardstone still making the running but all six horses only separated by three or four lengths

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:01 , Luke Baker

Edwardstone takes the early lead with Elixir De Nutz joining him. El Fabiolo settles in fifth early on, staying out of trouble.

First three fences negotiated with no drama

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 16:00 , Luke Baker

And they’re off in the biggest race of the day! No one seems to be giving any horse other than El Fabiolo a chance. Will it prove to be the procession that we’ve been assured it will?

Will Willie Mullins make history?

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:57 , Luke Baker

So, this could be the moment we’ve been waiting for. Trainer Willie Mullins, currently on 99 not out, could become the first man to rack up 100 Cheltenham wins, if heavy favourite El Fabiolo does what he’s expected to in the Queen Mother Champion Chase here.

Queen Camilla watching on and she might be about to witness history.

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase runners and riders

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:52 , Luke Baker

The big race of the day is almost upon us. Here’s the runners and riders, after Nicky Henderson pulled out Jonbon this morning.

El Fabiolo is a huge favourite and if he delivers for the unstoppable Willie Mullins-Paul Townend combo, then Mullins will have his 100th Cheltenham win. History beckons...

• El Fabiolo 1/4

• Edwardstone 7/1

• Captain Guinness 11/1

• Gentleman de Mee 22/1

• Elixir De Nutz 33/1

• Funambule Sivola 125/1

4.00 Queen Mother Champion Chase tips: Betting preview & best Cheltenham odds on Day 2

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:45 , The Independent

The feature race on day two of the 2024 Cheltenham Festival is the Queen Mother Champion Chase (4pm, ITV1). The championship race takes place over 2m, and the field jump 13 fences around the Old Course.

Seven runners will go to post, with Jonbon declared a non-runner on the morning of the race. That means there’ll be no repeat of the thrilling finish to last year’s Arkle Challenge Trophy when Jonbon and El Fabiolo went head-to-head.

Unfortunately, last year’s winner Energumene will not get the chance to defend his crown. He has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Captain Guinness chased home the Irish horse in second place 12 months ago. Henry De Bromhead’s chaser returns as he bids to go one place better this year.

The field also includes Elixir De Nutz, who runs for Joe Tizzard. He caused a big upset last time out when he defeated Jonbon on Trials Day at this course in the Grade One Clarence House Chase.

The horse racing betting sites all have El Fabiolo as a strong favourite in their Cheltenham odds to prevail for trainer Willie Mullins following Jonbon’s withdrawal. The Irishman is bidding for his third straight triumph in this prestigious contest. Here are our selections for the race.

4.00 Queen Mother Champion Chase tips: Betting preview & best Cheltenham odds on Day 2

Cheltenham 16:00 - Queen Mother Champion Chase expert picks

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:42 , Luke Baker

Ed Chamberlin - Edwardstone: “The Champions Chase is going to be a cracker. Sir Anthony McCoy always says it’s his favourite race at the meeting. El Fabiolo is the hot favourite, but I do think Edwardstone will give you a good run for your money, I hope he goes from the front again like he did at Newbury. El Fabiolo might be far too good, but I do see Edwardstone running a big race.”

Matt Chapman: “The big race of the day is the Grade 1 Queen Mother Champion Chase over two miles. I’m massively in the El Fabiolo camp and expect him to prove the outstanding two-miler chaser of the season. Some question his jumping, and he can make errors, but at the end of the day, he’s won eight off eleven starts and never fallen.”

Reaction from Harry Skelton

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:36 , Mike Jones

Winning jockey Harry Skelton, speaking to ITV Sport: “He’s brilliant. This has been 12 months planning.

“To be fair, we got him out on the grass in last few weeks and he has come alive. He was getting bumped and banged about out there - he was loving it. The more that happened, the more he thrived.

“He hasn’t been in quite as good form this year, but it’s happened today.”

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:27 , Mike Jones

1st - Langer Dan (Harry Skelton) 13-2

2nd - Ballyadam (Rachael Blackmore) 13-2

3rd - Shanbally Kid (M J M O’Sullivan) 12-1

4th - Lucky Place (James Bowen) 25-1

Langer Dan wins the Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:26 , Mike Jones

What a ride from Harry Skelton and Langer Dan. That’s only the second British winner of the Festival and, in a packed field where plenty could go wrong, the duo held their nerve and earned a second consecutive Coral Cup.

Langer Dan wins the Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle!

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:24 , Mike Jones

Wow! Huge injection of pace down the final straight and Langer Dan bombs into the lead, Ballyadam trakcs him well but can’t keep up with the pace and Shanbally Kid drops away.

Langer Dan crosses the line and wins the Coral Cup for a second year in a row!

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:22 , Mike Jones

Langer Dan and Shanbally Kid take to the front with Ballyadam targeting them as they move over the last!

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:21 , Mike Jones

Franciscan Rock comes through to challenge the leaders. Shanbally Kid, Willie Mullins’ horse, comes in contention too as they head round towards the straight.

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:19 , Mike Jones

Six to jump and Doddiethegreat moves up to third. This would be a huge result for Nicky Henderson if he can pull off a win but there’s a long way to go yet and the whol field is closely packed together.

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:19 , Mike Jones

The front four, Beacon Edge, Western Fold, Mark of Gold and Guard your Dreams switch positions with each but continue to lead the way with Nicky Henderson’s Doddiethegreat making a move up the pack.

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:17 , Mike Jones

Western Hold and Mark of Gold head towards the front with Langer Dan, last year’s winner, waiting in the middle of the field. Ballyadam and Rachael Blackmore are towards the back.

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:16 , Mike Jones

And they’re off! Beacon Edge leaps over the first flight but the rest of the field hug close behind him.

Cheltenham 15.15 - Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:15 , Mike Jones

There are 28 horses in this on with Built By Ballymore the 4-1 favourite. The bookies will be keen to see who comes out on top here after two heavy favourites in the opening two races.

Cheltenham tips on Day 2: Each-way bets for Wednesday afternoon races

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:10 , The Independent

The Coral Cup is something of a minefield when it comes to finding a winner, with as many as 24 runners lining up for an encounter over two miles and five furlongs.

Here’s our each-way tip for that race and the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup later on in the day:

Cheltenham tips Day 2: Three each-way bets for Wednesday

15:15 – Coral Cup Hurdle runners and riders

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:06 , Luke Baker

The Coral Cup hurdle is a much more wide-open race than some of the others we’ve seen. It’s a packed field, so here are the runners and riders:

• Built By Ballymore 7/2

• Sa Majeste 5/1

• Langer Dan 13/2

• Doddiethegreat 9/1

• Ballyadam 10/1

• Jigoro 12/1

• Shanbally Kid 14/1

• Might I 14/1

• Black Bamboo 16/1

• BrazilB 18/1

• Guard Your Dreams 22/1

• Lucky Place 25/1

• Da Capo Glory 28/1

• Mark Of Gold 33/1

• Western Fold 33/1

• Rambo T 40/1

• Beacon Edge 40/1

• Lombron 66/1

• Benson 80/1

• Finest Evermore 80/1

• Franciscan Rock 100/1

Mark Walsh speaking after winning with Fact To File

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:04 , Mike Jones

Mark Walsh, spoke to ITV Sport: “He jumped and travelled so well, he took me down the hill, I didn’t want to go too soon. This is a class horse now. The decision to go straight to fences was class. Hopefully we have a good one on our hands.”

Best Cheltenham betting offers: Free bet promos for Day Two

Wednesday 13 March 2024 15:02 , Luke Baker

Want some free bet action at Cheltenham? Of course you do!

There are many Cheltenham betting offers that have been released for the Festival and below, we’ve cherry-picked some of the best promotions and summarised the terms:

Best Cheltenham betting offers: Free bet promos for Day Two

15:15 – Coral Cup Hurdle expert pick

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:57 , Luke Baker

Alex Hammond - Shanbally Kid: “The Coral Cup is incredibly competitive, but Sky Bet are paying eight places rather than four, which brings my selection right into it. I think the price of Shanbally Kid is one to keep onside, hopefully he won’t mind the ground. He’s a horse who hasn’t stayed three miles, hasn’t enjoyed his only start over fences, so I think dropping back to this trip and the handicap has taken a bit of a chance with him. Shanbally Kid is the one for me in the Coral Cup.”

Reaction from Fact To File’s owner

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:53 , Mike Jones

Fact To File owner JP McManus, speaking to ITV Sport: “I was nervous, thought he was on his toes beforehand, but Mark did well to get him settled.

“I’m so relieved. It’s all in front of him.

“Willie decided to go straight to chasing and I had no objections. He’s been vindicated.”

‘This is a class horse now’ - Mark Walsh reflects on Fact To File victory

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:51 , Luke Baker

Mark Walsh a man of few words but he was impressed by the performance of Fact To File in that last race

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:43 , Luke Baker

Here’s how Willie Mullins’ 99th win came about. Fact To File unstoppable

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:40 , Luke Baker

Stay Away Fay pulled up just before the last.

Rachael Blackmore stayed on well on Monty’s Star to take second but there was no stopping Fact To File. Classy, classy win

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:39 , Luke Baker

Mark Walsh ran a perfect race on Fact To File. Bided his time and struck late. Won by a few lengths in the end.

• 1. Fact To File 8/11

• 2. Monty’s Star 11/2

• 3. Giovinco 40/1

• 4. Sandor Clegane 25/1

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:38 , Luke Baker

And Fact To File wins the Novices’ Steeple Chase, pulling away from the field after the last fence.

99 Festival wins for Willie Mullins!

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:37 , Luke Baker

The front four clear the final fence together, Fact To File making his move...

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:37 , Luke Baker

Sandor Clegane on the inside rail and leads, Fact To File being moved closer. Two fences to go.

Stay Away Fay drops way back. On to the last now

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:36 , Luke Baker

Another error by American Mike but Jack Kennedy keeps him upright!

Sandor Clegane and Stay Away Fay leading the way. Fact To File in fourth but they’re bunched as they jump the third-last.

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:35 , Luke Baker

Fact To File happy to lurk towards the back, only Giovinco behind him currently. The favourite only a few lengths behind the leader though and plenty of time to go.

They clear the water jump, six fences to go - the whole field separated by five lengths.

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:34 , Luke Baker

Group of three leaders with Stay Away Fay and Monty’s Star (ridden by Rachael Blackmore) joined by Sandor Clegane.

Mistake by American Mike with nine fences to go, only just stays on his feet with his nose dipping.

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:32 , Luke Baker

A long race this one but in the early going, Stay Away Fay and Monty’s Star taking up the running. American Mike third and Fact To File not far behind

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:30 , Luke Baker

And we’re off in the Novices’ Steeple Chase. Can someone, anyone stop the Willie Mullins procession? Remember, heavy favourite Fact To File is Mullins’ ride in this one, with Mike Walsh aboard

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase tip

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:26 , Luke Baker

Fact to File is the runaway favourite and taking plenty of money on the exchanges but our tipster James Boyle has another pick if you fancy backing against the Willie Mullins-trained favourite.

14:30 Cheltenham – Giovinco – 1pt @ 22/1

Fact To File is clearly a big talent and will be a banker for many. It won’t be easy to beat him if he’s as good as the figures suggest but his last win came against a misfiring Gaelic Warrior and before that he hammered Zanahiyr, who was making his chasing debut and didn’t look like a natural.

This should provide a clearer picture of where he’s at and he also has to prove his stamina for the extended three-mile trip. I’m happy enough to try and get him beaten at the prices, for all that he’s obviously classy and is unlikely to have maxed out on his ability just yet.

Stay Away Fay enhanced his form in defeat when third in the Cotswold Chase on the new course, tackling more experienced rivals who won Grade 1 contests as novices. He stays well, mostly jumps fine and shouldn’t have any problem with this sort of test. 3/1 is a tight enough price, however.

The one I’m liking is Giovinco, the outsider of the field. He has blotted his copybook on a few occasions, including in the Grade 1 novice at Kempton won by Il Est Francais. He didn’t look right there, failing to travel as he can, and it may not have been solely the level of opposition that caught him out. He has form with Stay Away Fay having been little more than a length behind him at Sandown before going to Kempton and that’s a better effort to judge him on. He travelled supremely well there, got to the front on the bridle and seemed set to win before failing to get home up the hill.

Cheltenham Betting Tips: Three bets for Wednesday at the Cheltenham Festival

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase runners and riders

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:21 , Luke Baker

Just the six horses in this one, with Fact to File a heavy favourite. You’ll never guess who trains him... Yep, Willie Mullins! Cheltenham win number 99 incoming?

• Fact To File 8/11

• Stay Away Fay 9/2

• Monty’s Star 11/2

• American Mike 10/1

• Sandor Clegane 25/1

• Giovinco 40/1

14:30 – Novices’ Steeple Chase expert picks

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:15 , Luke Baker

Attention will soon be turning to the 14:30 Novices’ Steeple Chase. Here’s what the experts reckon for this one

Oli Bell (Sky Bet ambassador) - Fact To File: “Ahead of day two at Cheltenham we’re in the Brown Advisory and I’m very sweet on the chances of Fact to File. He is a short-price favourite and there is a price boost with Sky Bet. I think he’s going to take a world of beating at the Brown Advisory, price boost on Sky Bet – get involved.”

Ruby Walsh (Paddy Power Ambassador) - Fact To File: “Broadway Boy not running makes this a tougher task for Stay Away Fay. It’ll be a tricky ride for Harry Cobden against Fact To File and his chances have been enhanced. He’ll be too quick for the rest of these.”

‘He’s blown them out of the water’: Paul Townend reacts to Ballyburn victory

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:07 , Luke Baker

Jockey Paul Townend has discussed that comfortable win for Ballyburn

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:57 , Luke Baker

Absolutely ruthless from Ballyburn. Believe the hype! Willie Mullins charging towards 100 Cheltenham wins

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle result

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:53 , Luke Baker

A classy, classy display by Ballyburn. Outstripped the field with ease - Paul Townend’s fourth winning ride of the week.

Here’s the full result:

1. Ballyburn 1/2

2. Jimmy Du Seuil 50/1

3. Ile Atlantique 13/2

4. Mercurey 33/1

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:52 , Luke Baker

And Ballyburn wins the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle at a canter!

Hit the front just before the last and pulls away down the straight. Another win for Willie Mullins. He actually got a 1-2-3-4-5 in that race.

Jimmy Du Seuill in second

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:51 , Luke Baker

Ballyburn turning on the afterburners approaching the last!

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:50 , Luke Baker

Mercurey still out front but Ballyburn in close order and Jimmy Du Seuill coming forward.

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:50 , Luke Baker

Ballyburn ominously placed just behind Mercurey here as they take the third-last. Predators Gold loses ground

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:49 , Luke Baker

Jingko Blue has been a cumbersome jumper so far, a mistake at almost every fence but Nico De Boinville getting him back on track.

Mercurey still leads with three flights to go. It’s pretty tightly bunched though.

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:48 , Luke Baker

The Cheltenham roar as the horses pass the grandstands. It’s still Mercurey with the lead and Ballyburn in close order behind.

Handstands and Jingko Blue the next two, with Jimmy Du Seuill at the back

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:47 , Luke Baker

Mercurey still has a couple of lengths lead over Ballyburn and Jingko Blue, with Handstands not far behind.

There was a thought that Ile Atlantique might take the lead early but he’s happy to sit in the pack.

Six hurdles to go

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novices' Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:46 , Luke Baker

Mercurey setting the pace early on, with Ballyburn - the heavy favourite - safely in second. Jingko Blue in third

All eight horses over the first couple of fences

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novice Hurdle

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:45 , Luke Baker

And they’re off! First race of the day underway

Cheltenham Festival 2024: Jonbon pulled out of Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:41 , Luke Baker

AP McCoy gives his thoughts on Nicky Henderson withdrawing Jonbon from today’s Queen Mother Champion Chase

Cheltenham 1.45 - Gallagher Novice Hurdle runners and riders

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:36 , Luke Baker

Here’s how we’re looking for the delayed 1.45 Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle, with The Grey Man a non-runner from the original eight-man field

• Ballyburn 1/2

• Ile Atlantique 13/2

• Predators Gold 8/1

• Handstands 14/1

• Jingko Blue 20/1

• Mercurey 33/1

• Jimmy Du Seuil 50/1

Cheltenham Festival 2024 - Queen Camilla arrives

Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:30 , Mike Jones

Queen Camilla has arrived at the Cheltenham Racecourse ahead of today’s action. I wonder who she’s backing in this first race?

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