As the excitement of Style Wednesday fades, the Cheltenham Festival seamlessly transitions into St. Patrick’s Thursday, a day deeply intertwined with Irish heritage. Celebrated annually on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day holds special significance, and at Cheltenham, it serves as a battleground for the fierce competition between British and Irish contenders.
The day’s racing action kicks off at 1:20 PM with the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) over 2 miles and 179 yards. Among the notable entries are AIR OF ENTITLEMENT, AURORA VEGA, BLUEY, BRENDAS ASKING, DISCO DANCER, DIVA LUNA, HOLLYGROVE CHA CHA, JANE EIRE, JUBILEE ALPHA, and JUST A ROSE.
Next on the card is the Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (Grade 2) at 2:00 PM, covering 2 miles and 4 furlongs. Expected runners include SPRINGWELL BAY, FIREFOX (IRE), CALDWELL POTTER, DEE CAPO, ANSWER TO KAY, ASIAN MASTER, INSURRECTION, NURBURGRING, O’MOORE PARK, and ANYWAY.
At 2:40 PM, the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) takes center stage over 2 miles and 7 furlongs. Notable contenders include THOMAS MOR, KARL DES TOURELLES, BUGISE SEAGULL, WIN SOME LOSE SOME, HARBOUR LAKE, SUPREME GIFT, D’ART D’ART, FEET OF A DANCER, LUCKY LYREEN, and JERIKO DU REPONET.
The Ryanair Chase (Grade 1), one of the day’s premier events, is set for 3:20 PM, covering 2 miles and 4 furlongs. Top horses entered include DJELO, ENVOI ALLEN, FACT TO FILE, HANG IN THERE, HEART WOOD, IL EST FRANCAIS, JUNGLE BOOGIE, MASTER CHEWY, and PROTEKTORAT.
The prestigious Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (Grade 1), a true test of stamina at 2 miles and 7 furlongs, starts at 4:00 PM. The field features strong contenders such as BOB OLINGER, BUDDY ONE, CRAMBO, FRANCISCAN ROCK, GA LAW, GOWEL ROAD, HOME BY THE LEE, LANGER DAN, LUCKY PLACE, and MONMIRAL.
At 4:40 PM, the Trustatrader Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) unfolds over 2 miles and 4 furlongs. Expect thrilling competition from CONFLATED, GINNY’S DESTINY, JORDANS, FUGITIF, PATH D’OROUX, SHAKEM UP’ARRY, IL RIDOTO, LA MALMASON, MASACCIO, and GEMIRANDE.
Closing the day at 5:20 PM is the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Chase (Sponsored by Thames Materials), spanning 3 miles and 2 furlongs. Some of the runners to watch include FANTASTIC LADY, YEAH MAN, SA MAJESTE, JOHNNYWHO, GELINO BELLO, MINT BOY, WEVEALLBEENCAUGHT, CLEATUS POOLAW, MANOTHEPEOPLE, and SINE NOMINE.
With high stakes, top-tier talent, and an electric Irish atmosphere, St. Patrick’s Thursday at Cheltenham promises unforgettable moments on and off the track.
