Cheltenham 2008
The legendary Cheltenham Festival is in sight and online betting is already buzzing with early prophecies of the outcome of the more prestigious events, not least the Cheltenham Gold Cup. To listen to most pundits one could be excused for thinking that it’s a two horse race between Kauto Star and Denman but shrewd sports betting fans know that it's never as simple as that.
Cheltenham Betting for 2008
Is it true that the 2008 Cheltenham Festival has been gifted with the decade’s most exciting gladiatorial challenge between two of the most remarkable horses since legends Arkle and Millhouse? Or is there a more level headed approach which takes note that these are early days to place such status on two horses still in the foothills of establishing their credentials, particularly over the kind of demanding course which Cheltenham presents? If the latter then there are many other great horses in this race and those with a nose for winners will find some very attractive prices in the rest of a strong field.
For those with a love of jump races there can be no finer offering of prestigious events than the Cheltenham Festival with four championship races, six other Grade One events and a multitude of supporting races. There are 24 races in all including the Champion Bumper, Arkle Challenge Trophy, Champion Hurdle, World Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase and the jewel in the crown, the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The meeting was extended from the traditional three days to four in 2005 simply to accommodate the rich array of racing on offer. The Gold Cup runners have to jump 22 fences over three miles two and a half furlongs.
Cheltenham's Champions Hurdle
The Champion Hurdle looks to be an interesting challenge this year. The Irish will be striving to maintain their dominance. Last year’s winner, Sublimity is favourite although getting somewhat long in the tooth. Up and coming Katchit may find this field a bit intimidating but Harchibald has done himself justice with a convincing win in the Fighting Fifth. Don’t forget you can get a free bet on these races as a new customer.
Don't forget the Jockeys!
But it's not just about horses at Cheltenham. You can bet on jockeys and trainers too. Paul Nicholls is the trainer of Kauto Star and Denman and won’t be far from the top when the winners are tallied. And look out for jockey Ruby Walsh, who rides his top mounts. This man has the luxury of choosing between the stables of the top two horses for the Gold Cup.
Dates for your Chelteham Betting Diary
Cheltenham Festival runs from the 11 -14 March inclusive and when it comes to jump racing you'll be hard pressed to find a more Olympian example than this great event. These are the top horses and greatest trainers and jockeys battling it out in an environment which places the greatest possible demands upon their talents. And, by all accounts, with a fantastic crowd to egg them on, exemplified by 'The Cheltenham Roar', there is an amazing time to be had by all.