This is the highlight of the sporting year for me, always a terrific atmosphere and the Champions League of the National Hunt world spread over four fantastic days.  I've been every year since 1981 apart from the abandoned foot and mouth epidemic year, and wouldn't miss it for the world.  

Any other racing fans on here who have been or are going?

44 minutes ago, Elite_pie said:

This is the highlight of the sporting year for me, always a terrific atmosphere and the Champions League of the National Hunt world spread over four fantastic days.  I've been every year since 1981 apart from the abandoned foot and mouth epidemic year, and wouldn't miss it for the world.  

Any other racing fans on here who have been or are going?

No.....but have a great time

Not a fan, but I do like big events and the Gold Cup is something I'd like to do 1 day. Done the National 1977 and the St Leger 1970 ish (Nijinsky won it) My dad had 10 bob on him for me. That dates me doesn't it!

Enjoy!

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If anyone fancies a visit I am running a coach trip there on Wednesday March 16th, Champion Chase day.  I've got a couple of seats and tickets spare.

Maybe to be heard at Cheltenham

Izzy's a faller

Stanley is a non starter

a Stead-y runner

On 3/6/2016 at 17:34, Elite_pie said:

If anyone fancies a visit I am running a coach trip there on Wednesday March 16th, Champion Chase day.  I've got a couple of seats and tickets spare.

Bump.

ps @Elite_pie, what do you think about the female bike-rider being given a shot? Is it just a publicity stunt?

15 minutes ago, tarquinbeech said:

Bump.

ps @Elite_pie, what do you think about the female bike-rider being given a shot? Is it just a publicity stunt?

It is a publicity stunt in part as it was bookie sponsored from day one, but I think it's been great for the sport in that it's generated huge media interest.  Some of the biggest names in racing seem to be split on her riding ability, and I don't know enough about riding style to offer an informed opinion.  The Foxhunters at Cheltenham is for amateurs, and has always seen some 'questionable' jockeyship.  I have massive respect for her taking on such a challenge, and I hope she does well.

Selections for Day one:

1:30 Altior - similar level of form to Min, but the Mullins factor means Altior looks the value bet.
2:10 Douvan - can't oppose him, but I'll be betting on Vaniteux in the 'without the favourite' market.
2:50 Out Sam - inexperienced but progressive. Also a small reverse forecast bet with Holywell.
3:30 My Tent Or Yours - in the hope Henderson will have him somewhere near his best.
4:10 Polly Peachum - not entirely convinced by Vroum Vroum Mag so 13/2 appeals more than evens.
4:40 Southfield Royale - 4 miles could see him at his best.
5:30 Amore Alato (e/w) - better than his form figures suggest, 25/1 looks a big price.
 

Anyone else had a bet?

On 06/03/2016 at 23:35, Piethagoram said:

Maybe to be heard at Cheltenham

Izzy's a faller

Stanley is a non starter

a Stead-y runner

None of the above 'won' at Cheltenham away.

On 08/03/2016 at 14:24, tarquinbeech said:

 @Elite_pie, what do you think about the female bike-rider being given a shot? Is it just a publicity stunt?

Just to update you Tarquin, the bike rider has just ridden in the Foxhunters at Cheltenham and did very well.  She finished a creditable fifth of the 24 runners and didn't look out of place at all.  Her horse jumped well and if anything she kept him out the back a bit too long because he was running on up the hill as well as anything and would have snatched third in another 50 yards.  It will be interesting what she does next because apparently she wants to carry on riding.

They were actually doing live updates on her horse, on the Guardian website....she certainly appears to have got the media excited, definitely good for the Sport of Kings!