Cheltenham Festival LIVE: Results, winners and latest updates

The Cheltenham Festival is back for 2023 with a thrilling week of racing lined up in the Cotswolds for what is known as ‘The Greatest Show on Turf’, as racegoers descend on the iconic course.

The Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup bookend the four-day meeting as perhaps the two highest-profile Grade 1 races, with Constitution Hill triumphing in the Champion Hurdle on Tuesday, showing his class to win at a canter after starting as the overwhelming, heavily-backed favourite.

Meanwhile, Rachael Blackmore returns to Cheltenham looking to create more history after an astounding win to retain the Gold Cup in 2022 –a victory that helped the Irish trainers triumph handily over their British counterparts to easily land the prestigious Prestbury Cup, with a mighty 18 wins compared to just 10 for the home horses.

The festival provides a massive £274m boost to the local economy, a study from the University of Gloucestershire has found, and while organisers will be hoping the rain holds off, it promises to be an exciting week of racing regardless.

Follow all the Day 2 action from Cheltenham below:

Cheltenham Festival LIVE: Results on day 2

• Ladies Day at Cheltenham Festival

• A Dream To Share holds off Fact To File to win the last race of the day, the Champion Bumper - 5.30pm

• 22/1 shot Maskada stays on strong to take the Grand Annual Handicap Chase - 4.50pm

• Delta Work edges out Galvin to triumph in the Cross-Country Steeple Chase - 4.10pm

• Energumene wins Queen Mother Champion Chase for a second year in a row - 3.30pm

• Langer Dan takes the Coral Cup Hurdle by a nose - 2.50pm

• The Real Whacker wins Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase - 2.10pm

• Impaire Et Passe wins Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle - 1.30pm

Who won at Cheltenham today?

Wednesday 15 March 2023 18:22 , Michael Jones

Cheltenham Festival is underway at Prestbury Park this week as 28 races across four days lure hundreds of thousands of punters to the racecourse.

Tuesday opened with Champion Day with Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill and Honeysuckle enjoying superb races.

Wednesday saw an equally entertaining Ladies Day as Energumene and Delta Work were among the big-name winners, while St Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, before the Festival’s big climax with the Gold Cup on Friday

With a wet week in store according to the latest Cheltenham forecast, British trainers will hope to get one over their Irish counterparts after a heavy beating to their Irish counterparts last year, conceding the Prestbury Cup 12 months ago with just 10 wins compared to 18 Irish victories.

The full race results from Cheltenham Festival 2023 will be updated below:

Who won at Cheltenham today?

Cheltenham Festival

Wednesday 15 March 2023 18:04 , Michael Jones

The big wins of the day go to Delta Work and Energumene who regained the titles they won last year but the story of the day goes to teenager John Gleeson who rode A Dream To Share to victory in the Champion Bumper.

The Cheltenham Festival returns tomorrow and we’ll have all the updates, tips and expert opinions to bring you then.

A Dream To Share wins the Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:58 , Michael Jones

What a feeling for 18-year-old John Gleeson who rides his first winner at Cheltenham!

Stewards Enquiry result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:57 , Michael Jones

The stewards have looked at the incident in the Champion Bumper and there’s no changes to the final result.

Cheltenham Festival Day Two result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:54 , Michael Jones

A wet and windy day at Cheltenham comes to a close but it was another glorious day of horse racing - especially for some former champions.

Energumene takes the headlines after retaining his Queen Mother Champion Chase crown with a dominant 10-length win. Here are the full results:

13:30 - Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle - Impaire Et Passe 5/2

14:10- Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase - The Real Whacker 8/1

14:50 - Coral Cup Hurdle (Handicap Hurdle Race) - Langer Dan 9/1

15:30 - Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase - Energumene 6/5 Fav

16:10 - Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase - Delta Work 11/10 Fav

16:50 - Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Handicap Chase - Maskada 22/1

17:30 - Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Standard Open NH Flat Race) - A Dream To Share 7/2

A Dream To Share wins Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:49 , Michael Jones

No, the winning horse A Dream To Share isn’t affected by the steward’s enquiry.

What a final race for Day Two, the youngest jockey and the oldest trainer in the race combining there for a fairtyale success in the Bumper.

18-year-old John Gleeson having his first Festival ride for 86-year-old trainer John Kiely.

Stewards Enquiry

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:44 , Michael Jones

There’s a steward’s enquiry over the end of the Champion Bumper after four horses collided with each other. The winner A Dream To Share shouldn’t be affected though.

Champion Bumper result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:40 , Michael Jones

1 A Dream To Share - 7/2

2 Fact To File - 16/5

3 Captain Teague - 40/1

4 Lecky Watson - 80/1

A Dream To Share wins the Champion Bumper!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:38 , Michael Jones

A Dream To Share comes through to win the Champion Bumper, what a result!

17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:37 , Michael Jones

Western Diego, ridden by Rachael Blackmore, is making a push and gets to the front. A Dream To Share is chasing though.

Into the final furlong.

17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:36 , Michael Jones

Westport Cove is sticking to the inside rail but there are a few horses choosing to head out wide. Fact To File is quite a way back in the midst of the chasing pack.

Captain Cody is making his way towards the front.

17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:35 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! The final race of the day gets going. Westport Cove makes the early move out front with Chosen Witness in a close second. Western Diego is near the front in third place.

17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:30 , Michael Jones

Willie Mullins has 10 runners out of the 24 field in this one. He’s surely got to get the winner today hasn’t he?

Where to watch Cheltenham Festival 2023 after ITV coverage ends

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:23 , Michael Jones

Cheltenham Festival 2023 kicked off on Tuesday as the biggest event on the racing calendar gets underway.

Prestbury Park plays host to four action-packed days of racing with around a quarter of a million people expected to attend.

Rachael Blackmore steered Honeysuckle to a fairytale and highly emotional victory in the Mares’ Hurdle on Day 1, on her final career start for Henry de Bromhead.

Here’s everything you need to know about watching Day 2 at Cheltenham Festival:

What channel is Cheltenham racing on today?

Day Two at Cheltenham Festival

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:19 , Michael Jones

17.30 - Champion Bumper

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:15 , Michael Jones

The Champion Bumper has not been won by a British-trained runner since 2016 and that trend is very likely to continue today as Irish runners make up three-quarters of the field.

Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott have taken all six wins since and field 10 and four runners respectively.

Fact To File, Fun Fun Fun and It’s For Me are the main Mullins contenders according to the betting.

Don’t overlook John McConnell’s Encanto Bruno either. McConnell has yet to saddle a Festival winner from 18 attempts but he is 9-28 with his other runners at Cheltenham since October 2018.

Cheltenham Festival tips: Experts on best bets and 11 horses to watch on Day 2

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:09 , Michael Jones

One race left to go on Day Two of the Cheltenham Festival. Take a look at our experts picks for the Bumper at 5.30 as well as previews from the next couple of days.

Tips for Cheltenham today: Experts on best bets and 11 horses to watch in 2023

Tips from Ruby Walsh

Wednesday 15 March 2023 17:05 , Michael Jones

17.30pm - Champion Bumper

Tip: Fact To File

“Ground, age, stamina, and those kinds of things have kicked into this decision for Patrick Mullins to ride Fact To File.

“A Dream To Share is your favourite, he beat Fact To File in Leopardstown. It was a slowly run race, but I think this will be a much different contest.

“I would be of the opinion the stayers win this race over the speed horses and I can see Fact To File changing that with A Dream To Share.

“Patrick Mullins may well have got it right and I’d be with Fact To File.”

Grand Annual Handicap Chase result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:59 , Michael Jones

1 Maskada - 22/1

2 Dinoblue - 7/2

3 Global Citizen - 12/1

4 Third Time Lucki - 8/1

Maskada wins the Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:57 , Michael Jones

Maskada moves into the lead over the last and storms up the hill, pushing six or seven lengths ahead to win with ease!

16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:56 , Michael Jones

Dinoblue is chasing Global Citizen but both are under pressure from Maskada and Third Time Lucki heading to the last fence.

16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:55 , Michael Jones

Dad’s Lad and Andy Defresne stay in touch but it’s Global Citizen out in the front as they reach the top of the hill with three to jump.

Epson Du Houx is up to third.

16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:54 , Michael Jones

Global Citizen leads the way and is trying to burn away from the rest of the field. Dinoblue is up to second and both horses are jumping well.

16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:53 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Dad’s Lad makes a mistake over the first but manages to hold it. Epson Du Houx and Dinoblue are up near the front.

16.50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:46 , Michael Jones

Third Time Lucki has finished fourth and sixth in two previous appearances at the Cheltenham Festival yet the Dan Skelton-trained horse will be hoping to breakthrough and win today.

The Willie Mullins-trained Dinoblue is relatively inexperienced over fences but could be a challenger, along with Final Orders from the Gavin Cromwell yard.

Andy Dufresne from Gordon Elliott’s yard is also well backed by the punters and is one to watch out for.

What channel is Cheltenham racing on today?

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:41 , Michael Jones

ITV’s coverage of the Cheltenham Festival has ended but there are two more races to go today.

Here’s how you can watch them otherwise stay tuned to our live blog and we’ll have updates from the Grand Annual Handicap Chase at 4.50pm and the Champion Bumper at 5.30pm.

What channel is Cheltenham racing on today?

Reaction from jockey Keith Donoghue on ITV:

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:35 , Michael Jones

“He’s a very tough horse. I knew the ground would suit me and he’d stay well. I did see Galvin at the second-last and was a little worried, hoping it would be somebody else.”

Delta Work wins the Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:26 , Michael Jones

Consecutive victories for Delta Work. He backs up his victory over Tiger Roll from last year and will certainly be well backed in the Grand National now.

Cross Country Chase result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:22 , Michael Jones

1 Delta Work - 11/10

2 Galvin - 11/4

3 Franco De Port - 9/2

Delta Work wins the Cross Country Chase!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:21 , Michael Jones

Back-to-back victories in the Cross Country Chase for Delta Work! He cantered home and left Galvin in his wake, winning by around three lengths in the end.

Wonderful race.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:20 , Michael Jones

Keith Donoghue has work to do atop Delta Work as he mistimes the jump over the last. Galvin gets away smoother but there’s nothing between them as they fly up the hill towards the finish.

Will it be Delta Work or Galvin?

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:19 , Michael Jones

Snow Leopardess’ race is run and she drops away allowing Francky Du Berlais to move into the lead. Delta Work takes the outside as Galvin draws alongside.

They’re neck and neck with two to jump.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:17 , Michael Jones

Franco De Port and Galvin pass Coup De Pinceau and sit just behind Delta Work. The three favourites are sitting behind the leading duo of Snow Leopardess and Lieutenant Rocco.

Five left to jump as Lieutenant Rocco eases in front.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:16 , Michael Jones

Coup De Pinceau - a 200/1 outsider - is matching and running alongside Delta Work in fourth place. He seems to be slacking slightly as the pack closes on leader Snow Leopardess.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:14 , Michael Jones

Delta Work has moved up to third with Galvin pushing through the field into sixth as they leap over the 13th. Next up is the water jump and the grey Snow Leopardess opens up a lead over Lieutenant Rocco.

Back On The Lash pulls up at the rear of the field.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:13 , Michael Jones

Snow Leopardess and Lieutenant Rocco lead the way through the Timber Rails. Delta Work is sitting pretty in fifth.

16.10 - Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:11 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Snow Leopardess and Delta Work get off to decent starts but Lieutenant Rocco leads the way.

Harry Redknapp talks Back On The Lash

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:06 , Michael Jones

Former Tottenham manager, Harry Redknapp, is a part owner of Back On The Lash which is running in the Cross Country Chase next.

Redknapp says that the ground may go against his horse as he prefers it firmer and also gave his prediction for who will win the Premier League this year.

“Looking forward to it, the rain's come back, he wants firmer ground really, we'll see.” he said, “Arsenal [to beat Man City to the title], no, not Tottenham this year,

“Arsenal strongly, they have belief, they look good, two good teams.”

16.10 - Cross Country Chase odds

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:06 , Michael Jones

Delta Work 6/4

Galvin 3/1

Franco De Port 9/2

Back On The Lash 14/1

Snow Leopardess 14/1

Gin On Lime 16/1

Deise Aba 40/1

Easysland 50/1

Diesel D’Allier 66/1

Plan Of Attack 66/1

Mortal 70/1

Francky Du Berlais 100/1

Lieutenant Rocco 110/1

Hardline 150/1

Coup De Pinceau 200/1

Tips from Ruby Walsh

Wednesday 15 March 2023 16:03 , Michael Jones

16.10pm - Cross Country Chase

Tip: Delta Work. Franco De Port each-way as well

“[Keith Donoghue booked on Delta Work] When you think about it - it’s not that big a shock.

“The success he’s had on Tiger Roll [previously] and I do think Delta Work is the one, especially with the rain that has fallen. Last year that was really what strengthened his [Delta Work’s] chance was real soft ground.

“He [Delta Work] won the first time up last year, but he has to be a better horse and with those runs under his belt, I think he’ll be hard to beat again.

“Franco De Port is at a big price will keep going at 8/1, he’s an each-way price anyway but Delta Work will win.”

Energumene wins the Queen Mother Champion Chase!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:59 , Michael Jones

Reaction from Energumene’s owner and Brighton chairman Tony Bloom

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:55 , Michael Jones

“He has done me proud. He ran a magnificent race totally deserved to win. We are so fortunate to have such an amazing horse. He didn’t run at his best last time out but has shown his class today.

“We have a huge game against Crystal Palace tonight so I will focus on that now ahead of Grimsby in the FA Cup this weekend.”

Energumene’s jockey Paul Townend speaks to ITV

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:51 , Michael Jones

“He was perfect everywhere. He jumped brilliant. You don’t win champion races in that manner normally. He’s a pleasure to ride.”

Cheltenham Festival 2023 race card, runners and full schedule for Wednesday

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:47 , Michael Jones

Here’s what’s still to come today - three races - and a look ahead to the rest of the festival this week.

Cheltenham racecard Wednesday: Festival runners and full schedule

16:10 - Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:44 , Michael Jones

Up next is the Cross Country Chase. Last year’s winner was Delta Work who famously defeated Tiger Roll on his final outing at the festival.

Delta Work is in action once again today and it’s no surprise that he’s the favourite to take the victory once again.

Energumene wins the Queen Mother Champion Chase!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:41 , Michael Jones

Back-to-back Champions Chase wins for Energumene and trainer Willie Mullins. He stuck near the front before making his move with two fences to go.

Queen Mother Champion Chase result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:38 , Michael Jones

1 Energumene - 6/5

2 Captain Guinness - 12/1

3 Greaneteen - 25/1

4 Editeur Du Gite - 13/2

Energumene wins the Queen Mother Champion Chase!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:36 , Michael Jones

Last year’s winner romps to a consecutive victory in the Champion Chase. It was a brilliant race which Paul Townend had control of from the get go.

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:35 , Michael Jones

Energuemene leaps over the final fence with Captain Guinness doing his best to stick with him. The favourite kicks on up towards the line and has too much pace.

This is his to win!

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones

Energuemen makes the turn as Captain Guinness draws within three lengths. Editeur Du Gite drops off as Edwardstone is nowhere near the front.

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones

Five out from the finish and Energumene eases slightly into the lead with Edwardstone starting to move up but making no real headway.

Editeur Du Gite still stays with the favourite.

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:33 , Michael Jones

Funambule Sivola falls at the third! He was an outside bet and chucks the jockey.

Editeur Du Gite and Energumene ride alongside each other with Captain Guinness just behind them.

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:31 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Editeur Du Gite and Energumene start well with the favourite ever so slightly off the back of the new runner.

Editeur Du Gite leads them up the straight.

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:28 , Michael Jones

The horses have been paraded and are heading out onto the course. Energumene has been heavily backed late on into 11/10 or 6/5 depending on the bookmaker.

Edwardstone is still his biggest challenger but the weather could play a part in this one. Edwardstone is confident on most types of terrain so won’t be an easy one to shake off.

Where to watch Cheltenham races

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:25 , Michael Jones

Cheltenham is one of the biggest horse racing festivals of the calender interesting people from all over the UK and beyond. Here’s how to make sure you’re able to follow all the races:

What channel is Cheltenham racing on today?

15.30 - Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:19 , Michael Jones

This one seems to be a shootout between last year’s winner Energumene, who is currently being back at 5/4, and Edwardstone who won last year’s Arkle.

The experts seem to like the look of Edwardstone but Energumene is still just ahead in the betting showing that the punters fancy him.

Victory for the Skelton brothers

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:17 , Michael Jones

Langer Dan gets the team of brothers, Harry and Dan Skelton, on the board for this year’s festival. It was a great ride by Harry to marshal Langer Dan over the line.

Cheltenham Festival tips: Experts on best bets and 11 horses to watch on Day 2

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:13 , Michael Jones

There’s four races to go on Day Two of the Cheltenham Festival and the big one - the Queen Mother Champion Chase - is up next. Take a look at our best bets and expert tips for what’s still to come:

Tips for Cheltenham today: Experts on best bets and 11 horses to watch in 2023

Tips for the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:09 , Michael Jones

The experts all have their eyes on Edwardstone for this one.

Oli Bell: “[On Edwardstone] Last year’s Arkle winner should reverse the form with Editer Du Gite and I didn’t love Energumene last time out.”

Ed Chamberlin: “[On Edwardstone] Will be ridden differently than the Clarence House and looks rock solid.”

Ruby Walsh: “It doesn’t suit me to go against a Willie Mullins horse, but I am, and I’m going against Energumene and the more rain that falls the better chance he [Edwardstone] has.

“Edwardstone looks like he’s capable of handling soft ground. Of the two of them since this time 12 months’ ago, Edwardstone looks to be the one who has improved or maybe he’s just maintained his form and Energumene has regressed.”

Harry Skelton praises Langer Dan

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:05 , Michael Jones

Winning jockey Harry Skelton told ITV after winning with Langer Dan:

“He loves a race like this with a big field. We discussed which race to go for and thankfully we were in the right race. He likes the hustle and bustle.”

Coral Cup Hurdle result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 15:02 , Michael Jones

1 Langer Dan - 9/1

2 An Epic Song - 16/1

3 Camprond - 20/1

4 Scaramanga - 50/1

5 Bold Endeavour - 22/1

Langer Dan wins the Coral Cup Hurdle!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:59 , Michael Jones

Langer Dan drifts over to the outside and edges alongside Camprond, An Epic Song takes the inside but it’s Langer Dan who has more pace and squeezes a nose in front to close the finish in first!

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:58 , Michael Jones

Camprond takes the lead and jumps over the final hurdle. An Epic Song and Langer Dan follow right behind and it’ll be a race up the hill to the finish!

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:57 , Michael Jones

HMS Seahorse is beginning to struggle and it looks like a tough ask for the favourite to get into the race.

An Epic Song is in contention now as Camprond goes in front of Watch House Cross. Captain Conby is making a move too.

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:56 , Michael Jones

Five to jump. Rachael Blackmore and Watch House Cross still lead the race with Camprond right up with them. There’s not a great deal of change behind them but HMS Seahorse lands awkwardly and drops a few places back.

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:55 , Michael Jones

Watch House Cross leads the field ahead of Riaan. The main field follows closesly behind with San Salvador and Captain Conby well placed.

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:53 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! A false start means a slight delay and as a result there’s a standing start.

Elvis Mail unseats his rider at the first hurdle!

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:50 , Michael Jones

The runners make their way out onto the course and the riders show their mounts the first hurdle ahead of the start. There’s a skittish look to the field as they seem keen to set off.

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:46 , Michael Jones

HMS Seahorse has been backed into the 11/2 favourite with Captain Conby just behind at 13/2 as the horses make their way around the paddock.

Tips from Ruby Walsh

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:41 , Michael Jones

14.50pm - Coral Cup Hurdle

Tip: Captain Conby each-way

“I thought I’d pulled one out of the fire as I was going through these this morning and I was with Captain Conby as well.

“I was going through and Captain Conby on the last run behind San Salvador. Icare Allen ran too badly for me in Newbury and Scaramanga wants fast ground. Tax For Max is hard to fancy.”

14.50 - Coral Cup Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:36 , Michael Jones

This race is anybody’s to win.

Four of the last five winners in the Coral Cup Hurdle have set off at over 20/1 and there has only been one winning favourite in the last 19 outings.

The Irish trained contingent are the more favoured runners today. Captain Conby and Run For Oscar are well backed as are Beacon Edge, ridden by Michael O’Sullivan, and HMS Seahorse who could give Paul Nolan a fourth winner at the Cheltenham Festival.

Good Risk At All could be the best of the British-trained runners, as he attempts to land a first Festival winner as a trainer for Sam Thomas, whose greatest moment in the saddle came aboard Denman in the 2008 Gold Cup.

The Real Whacker wins the Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:31 , Michael Jones

The Real Whacker has now four times from four races at Cheltenham.

His trainer, Patrick Neville, had considered running him in Friday’s Gold Cup and given that performance he could turn out to be a contender for next year.

Winning jockey Sam Twiston-Davies on ITV Racing:

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:27 , Michael Jones

“He races in a great manner and although he’s at the front, he does the hard work. It was a fantastic race.”

The Real Whacker wins the Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:24 , Michael Jones

What a race and what a result for jockey Sam Twiston-Davies. It’s been a while since he rode a winner at the Cheltenham festival. Check out just how close Gerri Colombe came to nicking the win:

The Real Whacker wins the Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:20 , Chris Wilson

The results are announced and The Real Whacker and Sam Twiston-Davies take the win by a whisker!

Gerri Colombe made up some serious distance at the end, overtaking 80/1 Bronn on the final straight, but it wasn’t enough to overtake.

The Real Whacker led most - if not all - of the race and is a deserved winner.

Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:20 , Jack Rathborn

1 The Real Whacker - 8/1

2 Gerri Colombe - 5/4

3 Bronn - 50/1

4 I Am Maximus - 28/1

14:10 - Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase LIVE

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:17 , Chris Wilson

Bronn is still challenging in second place as we approach the end of the race but looks to be overtaken by Gerri Colombe.

We’re going to need a photo finish here at Gerri Colombe makes up the distance to make it a close finish with The Real Whacker!

14:10 - Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase LIVE

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:16 , Chris Wilson

Sir Gerhard is improving with three fences to go.

With two left, The Real Whacker still has a slender lead.

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:15 , Chris Wilson

With 7 fences to go, The Real Whacker and Bronn lead the race.

Gerri Colombe made a mistake at the fence and lost some time, while Sir Gerhard lingers behind for now.

14:10 - Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase LIVE

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:11 , Chris Wilson

We’re underway in the second race of the day.

The Real Whacker leads in the first straight with Gerri Colombe in third.

Sir Gerhard is toward the back of the field.

Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:10 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Three miles and half a furlong to go to see who is triumphant in the Novices’ Steeple Chase. Gerri Colombe heads off as the 5/4 favourite.

The Real Whacker takes them over the first and leads the way round the opening bend.

Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:07 , Michael Jones

Gerri Colombe, trained by Gordon Elliott, has a great chance of winning this one.

The seven-year-old has won all eight of his races across bumpers, hurdles and in the novice chase division plus he has two Grade One wins to his name. But, this is his first time racing over three miles under rules so who knows how that will affect him.

Elsewhere, Sir Gerhard, who has twice won at the Festival, shoul be a danger along with The Real Whacker.

Build-up to Race 2: 14:10 - Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:04 , Chris Wilson

The second race of the day will begin in under ten minutes, as the Brown Advisory Novice’s Steeple Chase gets underway.

Gerri Colombe is the favourite at 5/4, although Sir Gerhard has climbed up the rankings today to second favourite at 5/2.

Wednesday 15 March 2023 14:03 , Chris Wilson

Here’s some highlights of the final stages from ITV Racing, as Impaire Et Passe started to pull away.

An impressive ride from Paul Townend.

Cheltenham Festival: Sir Alex Ferguson misses out in the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:59 , Jack Rathborn

13:30 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle: Full Result

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:52 , Jack Rathborn

1st: Impaire Et Passe 5/2

2nd: Gaelic Warrior 9/2

3rd: Champ Kiely

Mullins speaks to ITV

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:42 , Chris Wilson

Speaking to ITV, Willie Mullins says that he’s “happy enough” with what was “a good performance”.

The leading trainer in Cheltenham Festival history notches another victory here.

Mullins actually takes first, second and third places, with another two of his horses, Gaelic Warrior and Champ Kiely, coming in second and third respectively.

Impaire Et Passe wins the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle!

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:39 , Jack Rathborn

Champ Kiely tired towards the end while Hermes Allen also faded.

Over the final hurdle, Impaire Et Passe took the jump well and excelled into the lead, eventually winning by several lengths.

1. Impaire Et Passe - 5/2

2. Gaelic Warrior - 9/2

3. Champ Kiely - 13/2

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:36 , Chris Wilson

Approaching the final hurdle and Hermes Allen had faded away. Impaire Et Passe looks to have won it!

13:30 - Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle LIVE

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:35 , Chris Wilson

Very little change in the order so far, with little pressure applied to the front two.

With 3 hurdles to go, Champ Kiely and Hermes Allen are beginning to pull away in second and first respectively.

Impaire Et Passe is in third.

13:30 - Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle LIVE

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:33 , Chris Wilson

And we’re off!

Champ Kiely leads, with Hermes Allen in second, while favourite Impaire Et Passe is in third.

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:32 , Chris Wilson

Ahead of the race, Sir Alex was asked about Hermes Allen.

“Well, we're very excited about it [Hermes Allen], it's a very good horse, we've got the Irish to beat, but we look forward to it.

“[On Tuesday’s racing]: It's unbelievable, Honeysuckle, I don't think anybody was left without a tear, the emotion of the thing, the jockey and trainer.

“[On Premier League title race]: I'm not interested”

Build-up to Race 1

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:22 , Chris Wilson

13:30 - Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle

The first race of the day is the second of three Grade 1 novice contests over timber at Cheltenham.

Run over 2m 5f, Ten runners will take part in this race.

This year’s favourite is Hermes Allen, a horse trained by Paul Nicholls and part-owned by ex-Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Willie Mullins, the leading trainer in Cheltenham Festival history, has won this prize five times and has four contenders this year in the shape of Impaire Et Passe, Ho My Lord, Gaelic Warrior and Champ Kealy.

Cheltenham betting offers at Paddy Power, Betfair and more

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:15 , Chris Wilson

With the races now just 15 minutes away, those still looking for a quick flutter can turn to several bookies for great offers on Cheltenham betting.

Paddy Power are offering any new users who place a £5 bet on Cheltenham ten free spinson their daily jackpot games and £30 in free bets.

SkyBet also offerthe chance for new customers to get £30 in free bets if you place a bet as part of their welcome offer, while Bet365 have a similar offer, with new customers who stake £10 earning a further £30 in free wagers.

There are other offers from companies including WilliamHill, Betfred, Coral and Betfair.

Cheltenham Festival betting offers at Paddy Power, Betfair and more

Is Cheltenham on TV?

Wednesday 15 March 2023 13:05 , Chris Wilson

After an exhilarating first day on Tuesday, fans will be wondering if they can catch the action live.

Those wanting to watch their bets come in can follow the first five races of every day live on ITV. Coverage started at 1pm and does so every day of the festival.

Subscription channel Racing TV will show every race on each day, while a number of betting websites and apps also shows the races.

What channel is Cheltenham racing on?

Wednesday 15 March 2023 12:59 , Chris Wilson

Camilla, Queen Consort has arrived ahead of the first races of Ladies’ Day!

The royal has been spotted along with the likes of media personality Carol Vorderman and former Premier League manager Harry Redknapp.

Race 7

Wednesday 15 March 2023 12:55 , Chris Wilson

17.30 - Champion Bumper: Fact to File (Ruby Walsh, 4/1)

Walsh has tipped Fact to File for the final race of the day.

“Ground, age, stamina, and those kinds of things have kicked into this decision for Patrick Mullins to ride Fact To File.

“A Dream To Share is your favourite, he beat Fact To File in Leopardstown. It was a slowly run race, but I think this will be a much different contest.

“I would be of the opinion the stayers win this race over the speed horses and I can see Fact To File changing that with A Dream To Share.

“Patrick Mullins may well have got it right and I’d be with Fact To File.”

Race 6

Wednesday 15 March 2023 12:40 , Chris Wilson

16:50 - Grand Annual Handicap Chase: Final Orders (6/1)

Dinoblue remains favourite for this race, but Final Order has won his last five races over fences.

He recently won at Leopardstown, suggesting he can overcome the 10lb rise, and has been tipped as one to watch here.

Race 5

Wednesday 15 March 2023 12:25 , Chris Wilson

16:10 - Glenfarclas Chase (Cross Country Chase): Delta Work (Oli Bell & Ruby Walsh, 5/4), Galvin (Ed Chamberlin, 9/4)

Oli Bell: “[On DeltaWork] Last year’s winner ran well in a handicap last time giving lots of weight away.”

Ed Chamberlin: “[On Galvin] A class horse, can beat Delta Work!”

Walsh is backing Delta Work too, but also tips Franco De Port each-way.

Ruby Walsh: “[Keith Donoghue booked on Delta Work] When you think about it - it’s not that big a shock.

“The success he’s had on Tiger Roll [previously] and I do think Delta Work is the one, especially with the rain that has fallen. Last year that was really what strengthened his [Delta Work’s] chance was real soft ground.

“He [Delta Work] won the first time up last year, but he has to be a better horse and with those runs under his belt, I think he’ll be hard to beat again.

“Franco De Port is at a big price and will keep going at 8/1, he’s an each-way price anyway but Delta Work will win.”

Race 4

Wednesday 15 March 2023 12:10 , Chris Wilson

15:30 - Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase: Edwardstone (Oli Bell, 3/2), Edwardstone (Ed Chamberlin, 3/2)

Oli Bell is backing Edwardstone, saying that “last year’s Arkle winner should reverse the form with Editer Du Gite and I didn’t love Energumene last time out.”

Ed Chamberlin: “[Edwardstone] will be ridden differently than the Clarence House and looks rock solid.”

Walsh has also gone with Edwardstone.

“It doesn’t suit me to go against a Willie Mullins horse, but I am, and I’m going against Energumene and the more rain that falls the better chance he [Edwardstone] has.

“Edwardstone looks like he’s capable of handling soft ground. Of the two of them since this time 12 months’ ago, Edwardstone looks to be the one who has improved or maybe he’s just maintained his form and Energumene has regressed.”

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website