Cheltenham Festival

11th - 14th March 2008, Cheltenham Racecourse

The National Hunt Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse is the highlight of Cheltenham's horse racing calendar, with its importance in British racing, comparable to the World Cup in football. It features the famous Cheltenham Gold Cup, the tradition of which goes back to 1819 and which had its present form since 1924. The four-days of the best steeplechase and hurdle racing attracts thousands of visitors from Ireland, with a strong line-up of Irish horses challenging for the prizes on offer. The 25 races offer in excess of £2 million in prize money and over £500 million will be spent on bets.

The highlights of 2008 Cheltenham Festival includes Tuesday’s Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle, which is the most sought after prize anywhere for 2 mile hurdlers, Wednesday’s Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase which is a must race for all 2 mile chasers. Thursday brings The Ladbrokes World Hurdle, a long distance hurdle race over 3 miles long. Thursdays have been established as Ladies’ Day when ladies fashion takes the centre stage and the name of a Lady who has made the most Outstanding Contribution to Jump Racing, as well as the winner for the Best Dressed Lady awards is announced. And as every year everyone is eagerly awaiting Friday with its totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup.

There is plenty to see and do before the racing starts. You can enjoy the Festival atmosphere, with trade stands, live music and paddock interviews.

If you want to come and enjoy Cheltenham Festival please get your tickets as soon as possible. As every year the Best Mate enclosure has already sold out on totesport Gold Cup day, 14th March.

The gates open at 10.30am and first race is held at 2pm.

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

For more information on this other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham Events Guide.