The two big events on Cheltenham 2016’s Champion Day (that’s the Tuesday) are The Stan James Champion Hurdle and The Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Steeple Chase.
The former initiated what was to be a captivating battle between the two stars of last year’s gathering, Faugheen and Peace And Co. Faugheen lit up the Champion Hurdle, striding away to an eight-length win, and until Peace And Co cleaned up on day four no one was sure if anyone would be able to match him.
In the subsequent 12 months, both horses have valiantly maintained this form and enter the Champion Day with a strong start to an amazing fight in their sights.
But not to be forgotten this day, amongst other races, is the Arkle Chase, which sees Douvan up against L’Ami Serge as the favourites for the ride. This was another case of extraordinary performances last year, when the latter overtook Douvan on the hill. What will be interesting is who will be atop Serge, with confirmation still to come as to whether Tony McCoy will make a spectacular professional racing coming back.
In amongst these big races however, some fantastic opportunities to get your betting on occasionally get lost in the glitter. Also on offer for punters on Champion Day is The Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle Race (2 Miles and ½f), The Ultima Handicap Steeple Chase (3 Miles and 1f), The OLBG Mares’ Hurdle Race (2 Miles and 4f), The 146th Year of the National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup (4 Miles), and The Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase (2 Miles and 4½f).
On a non-punter’s note, but still potentially of interest, is the parade happening at the start of the day’s events – the ROR (Retraining of Racehorses) organisation’s showpiece beauties. So if you’re attending and arriving a bit early, there’ll be plenty to keep you occupied once all your bets are in.
