Cheltenham Festival LIVE: Yesterday’s results and winners in full

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 the Champion Hurdle contested on the opening day on Tuesday and superstar horse Constitution Hill showed 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 1 action from Cheltenham below:

Cheltenham Festival 2023 Day 1 updates

• The Cheltenham Festival 2023 is underway

• Heavy favourite Constitution Hill wins the Champions Hurdle, the biggest race of the opening day, at a canter

• Honeysuckle enjoys fairytale end to career as Rachael Blackmore rides her to emotional Mares’ Hurdle victory

• Gaillard Du Mesnil closes out Day 1 with victory in Novices Chase

• Jazzy Matty takes the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle for Gordon Elliott’s first win of the festival

• Corach Rambler wins Ultima Handicap Chase for the second year in a row

• El Fabiolo triumphs in the Arkle Challenge Trophy as Dysart Dynamo falls

• Marine National wins the first race of the week - the Supreme Novices Hurdle

• Day 1 tips from the experts: 13 horses to watch

• Cheltenham Festival 2023: Full race card and results

Looking ahead to Day Two

Tuesday 14 March 2023 18:06 , Michael Jones

Tomorrow’s racing will have the Champion Chase where last year’s winner Energumene runs in the colours of Brighton & Hove Alboin owner Tony Bloom looking to regain the trophy.

We’ll have more live updates as the racing once again gets under way at 1.30pm.

Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival

Tuesday 14 March 2023 18:00 , 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 opens with Champion Day and all eyes are on Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill, while last year’s winner Honeysuckle goes for glory in the Mares’ Hurdle for what may be her final race.

Wednesday is Ladies Day and St Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, before the Festival’s big climax with the Gold Cup on Friday.

British trainers will be out for revenge after taking 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:

Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival

Trainer Willie Mullins on Racing TV:

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:56 , Michael Jones

“We’re very lucky to have two winners today. I was having a cup of tea, thinking this is over, I couldn’t see him winning until the other horse fell but you need luck.

“He has loads of stamina but he didn’t pick up the way I thought he would. I think the Irish National may come too soon for him. That was a tough race.”

National Hunt Novices’ Chase result

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:44 , Michael Jones

1 Gaillard Du Mesnil - 10/11

2 Chemical Energy - 8/1

3 Mister Coffey -11/1

GAILLARD DU MESNIL WINS THE NOVICES CHASE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:40 , Michael Jones

Chemial Energy leaps over the last fence in the lead but Patrick Mullins riding atop Gaillard Du Mesnil kicks the horse into another gear and sprints past to claim the win!

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:39 , Michael Jones

Mahler Mission is down! He falls at the second last despite a huge lead.

Chemical Energy moves ahead with Gaillard Du Mesnil upping the pace.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:38 , Michael Jones

Mahler Mission and Mister Coffey lead the way down the hill to the last three fences. Chemical Energy is in third with Gaillard Du Mesnil a fair way back.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:37 , Michael Jones

Malinello is down!

Gaillard Du Mesnil moves through the field and is up to about sixth, just off the back of the leaders.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:36 , Michael Jones

A mistake from Fakiera drops him back to fourth as Bellatrxsa moves out in front. Minella Crooner is involved near the front.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:36 , Michael Jones

They head over fence number six and Fakiera is around a neck ahead of Bellatrixsa in second. Still no movement from Gaillard Du Mesnil.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:32 , Michael Jones

Gaillard Du Mesnil is second last after the first couple of fences. Fakiera and Mister Coffey leap over safely are the head of the pack.

National Hunt Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:31 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! The final race of the day gets started.

Will Gaillard Du Mesnil win the final race of Day One?

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:27 , Michael Jones

The Willie Mullins-trained Gaillard Du Mesnil is being ridden by his son Patrick in the final race of the day and is a regular in the winners enclosure at Prestbury Park.

The horse finished third in last year’s Irish Grand National and Mullins senior believes he is going to be hard to beat in this Cheltenham Day One closer.

Henry de Bromhead on Honeysuckle’s win

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:26 , Michael Jones

“It’s the fairytale ending that doesn’t normally happen. I am so happy for everyone. You dream of it but this is what she deserves. She is an unbelievable mare. She is so special.

“I think we have had a terrible year with Jack but the support everyone has given us we are really grateful for that.”

“I think it’s done. We rolled the dice and we got the fairytale.”

Cheltenham Festival selling ‘world’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:22 , Michael Jones

Racegoers at Cheltenham Festival will be able to drink the “world’s most expensive” pint of Guinness.

Online bookmaker Fitzdares has launched a blend of the Irish stout and sparkling wine that will cost drinkers £20 a pint.

“Club Black Velvet” will mix the thick black beer equally with English fizz, with Fitzdares’ chief executive claiming he had concocted the beverage to celebrate the new post-brexit deal for Northern Ireland, agreed at Windsor in late February.

William Woodhams also hopes that the high-cost libation may stop quaffers complaining about the price of a regular pint of Guinness.

Cheltenham Festival selling ‘world’s most expensive’ pint of Guinness

National Hunt Novices’ Chase odds

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:17 , Michael Jones

Gaillard Du Mesnil 10/11

Mahler Mission 7/1

Minella Crooner 15/2

Mister Coffey 10/1

Tenzing 11/1

Chemical Energy 12/1

Coolvalla 28/1

Fakiera 66/1

Malinello 100/1

Bellatrixsa 100/1

Winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan, speaking to Racing TV

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:13 , Michael Jones

“Unbelievable. He travelled everywhere for me. I was always getting there.

“My dad is amazing. He never pushed me too much and when he saw I showed interest he put a lot of time into me and it is great it is paying off.”

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle result

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:07 , Michael Jones

1 Jazzy Matty - 18/1

2 Byker - 6/1

3 Risk Belle - 10/1

4 Sundial - 18/1

Jazzy Matty wins Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 17:01 , Michael Jones

Michael O’Sullivan, the winner of the Supreme Novices, has a second win of the day as he storms Jazzy Matty through the final stretch to take the win.

It’s a win for trainer Gordon Elliott too.

JAZZY MATTY WINS THE JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:59 , Michael Jones

Jazzy Matty pips Risk Belle to the line!

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:58 , Michael Jones

Byker, Jazzy Matty, Bad and Perseus Way head up the hill. Risk Bell comes from deep and threatens as they head over the final jump.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:57 , Michael Jones

Bad comes through the field to take the lead as Byker drops back a couple of places. Samuel Spade and Perseus Way are still in the leading bunch.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:56 , Michael Jones

Byker is out in front now as the 21 horses are all within seven lengths of each other. The pace isn’t the quickest but they’re moving along smoothly.

Perseus Way and Samuel Spade are second and third respectively.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:54 , Michael Jones

Perseus Way heads off on the inside close to Samuel Spade who lands awkwardly over the first fence.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:53 , Michael Jones

The Juvenile Handicap Hurdle almost gets underway but there’s false start and a recall. Tekao, the favourite, was very eager to get away and approached the line too fast.

A second recall is needed so there’s going to be a standing start.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:48 , Michael Jones

Two races to go at Cheltenham today. Next up is the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle.

How many horses have died at the Cheltenham Festival this century?

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:47 , Michael Jones

The Cheltenham Festival’s return sees horse racing’s difficult relationship with animal welfare in the spotlight.

One of the most prestigious events on the calendar, four days of racing will be held at the Gloucestershire racecourse this week.

But like most of the sport’s marquee occasions, recent runnings at Cheltenham have been marred by the tragic passing of horses after falls in competition.

According to long-standing animal rights group Animal Aid, at least one horse has died every year that the Festival has been held since 2000.

The organisation’s data shows that a total of 73 horses have died after running at the event in the last 23 years.

How many horses have died at the Cheltenham Festival?

AP McCoy and Nicky Henderson on Constitution Hill

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:41 , Michael Jones

Speaking in ITV, former jockey AP McCoy spoke about Constitution Hill saying: “This is the horse of a generation, and a horse we’ll be talking about for generations.”

Trainer, Nicky Henderson, told the BBC: “That would bring tears to most eyes. He is pretty unique. There is a brilliant team behind it all. You get a horse like this in a lifetime and we are lucky.

“That is only the sixth race of his life but this horse is going to extraordinary levels and we are lucky to be the custodians of it. He is so unflappable.”

Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:36 , 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 opens with Champion Day and all eyes are on Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten Constitution Hill, while last year’s winner Honeysuckle goes for glory in the Mares’ Hurdle for what may be her final race.

Wednesday is Ladies Day and St Patrick’s Day falls on Thursday, before the Festival’s big climax with the Gold Cup on Friday.

British trainers will be out for revenge after taking 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:

Cheltenham results today: Every race winner at the 2023 Festival

Reaction from Rachael Blackmore

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:30 , Michael Jones

‘She’s just phenomenal'

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:28 , Michael Jones

Honeysuckle’s trainer Henry de Bromhead, suffered the loss of his son Jack in September after a fall in a pony race so this victory will feel extra special.

Rachael Blackmore said: “We all wish a very special kid could be here today but he’s looking down on her. As a jockey I am so grateful, she’s just phenomenal and been so important for my career. She’s just a credit to anyone. A brilliant day.”

Henry de Bromhead added: “A fairytale ending, she’s just an incredible mare. It’s been an amazing few years, a lot of fun.”

Nico de Boinville and Constitution Hill won the 2023 Champion Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:25 , Michael Jones

Honeysuckle signs off with victory

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:22 , Michael Jones

Mares’ Hurdle result

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:19 , Michael Jones

1 Honeysuckle - 9/4

2 Love Envoi - 11/1

3 Queens Brook - 16/1

4 Echoes In Rain - 9/1

HONEYSUCKLE WINS THE MARES’ HURDLE!

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:17 , Michael Jones

It’s a fairytale ending for Honeysuckle! Rachael Blackmore kicked her on down the final straight and edged her just ahead of Love Envoi before getting over the line.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:15 , Michael Jones

Honeysuckle is well placed with three left to jump but Marie’s Rock has closed the gap. Epatante is back in contention now too.

Love Envoi leaps over the next hurdle and the pace increases with two to jump.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:16 , Michael Jones

Honeysuckle and Love Envoi pull ahead and leap over the last neck and neck.

Love Envoi is smoother out of the landing and Rachael Blackmore has to whip Honeysuckle into another gear...

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:14 , Michael Jones

Marie’s Rock draws alongside Shewearsitwell after the next hurdle and looks to push closer to Honeysuckle, still in second place.

Love Envoi leads the way with four left to jump.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:13 , Michael Jones

Love Envoi opens up a two to three length gap over Honeysuckle with seven hurdles left to go. Shewearsitwell is up to third.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:12 , Michael Jones

Love Envoi edges ahead after the second jump but the pace isn’t too tasking. The rest of the field closes up with Marie’s Rock in in the middle of the pack.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:11 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Honeysuckle and Marie’s Rock set off as the 9/4 joint favourites.

Honeysuckle and Love Envoi lead the way as they head towards the first fence.

Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:09 , Michael Jones

Honeysuckle looks composed as Rachael Blackmore shows her the first hurdle.

Epatante is in good form, as is Marie’s Rock, who will be the two to beat if Honeysuckle wants to sign off in style.

Mares’ Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:04 , Michael Jones

Rachael Blackmore rides Honeysuckle for the Mares’ Hurdle. Can she help Honeysuckle sign off her career with a victory?

Everyone at Cheltenham would love it but fairytale endings in sport are very rare and Marie’s Rock is a strong contender to take the win this afternoon.

Mares’ Hurdle latest odds

Tuesday 14 March 2023 16:00 , Michael Jones

Here are the latest odds for the Mares Hurdle at 4.10pm from OLBG:

Honeysuckle 9/4

Marie’s Rock 5/2

Epatante 13/2

Brandy Love 15/2

Love Envoi 8/1

Queens Brook 17/2

Echoes In Rain 9/1

Shewearsitwell 25/1

Theatre Glory 28/1

Mares' Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:55 , Michael Jones

The Mares’ Hurdle is coming up just after 4pm and this year’s field is one of the most competitive in recent times.

Last year’s winner, Marie’s Rock, attempts to follow up against two former winners of the Champion Hurdle itself. Honeysuckle, won this race three years ago before landing the Champion Hurdle in 2021 and 2022 but will be making her final competitive appearance on the racecourse today.

Epatante is the 2020 champion and ran to a high level behind Constitution Hill on her first two starts this season.

There is a case to be made too for several of their rivals, with Brandy Love, Echoes In Rain and Love Envoi all within striking distance of the principals on the book.

Honeysuckle would be the most popular winner but Marie’s Rock may just edge this one.

Constitution Hill wins the Champion Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:50 , Michael Jones

‘It’s an extraordinary horse'

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:47 , Michael Jones

Winning trainer, Nicky Henderson, said: “It’s just an extraordinary horse, you can’t believe he’s doing that at this stage of his life.

“You always worry that something has gone wrong and he hasn’t run since Christmas, there’s pressure on.”

Reaction from Nico de Boinville

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:45 , Michael Jones

“What a horse, just absolutely delighted. He had loads left. The governor has done a fantastic job.

“It’s been a dream of mine to get the big three [Champion Hurdle, Champion Chase and Gold Cup] and I am delighted to have achieved it.

“He’s just winged every hurdle, it’s just when to push the button.”

Constitution Hill wins the Champion Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:42 , Michael Jones

The cool-headed combo of Nico de Boinville and Constitution Hill.

Constitution Hill wins at a canter

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:40 , Michael Jones

This is as close as it gets to a certain winner in horse racing. Constitution Hill storms to victory in the Champion Hurdle.

Champion Hurdle result

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:38 , Michael Jones

1 Constitution Hill - 4/11

2 State Man - 7/2

3 Zanahiyr - 66/1

4 Vauban - 16/1

CONSTITUTION HILL WINS THE CHAMPION HURDLE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:36 , Michael Jones

Constitution Hill pulls further ahead as he flies down the straight to the finish line. He was heavily backed and lived up to his favourite billing.

State Man ran well and finishes second.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:35 , Michael Jones

Constitution Hill leaps over the final hurdle as State Man storms through the pack to follow him over in second place.

He’s not going to catch the leader though.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones

Three fences to go with State Man attempting to move through the field. Constitution Hill is alongside I Like To Move It at the front of the field now.

Not So Sleepy has fallen away, Vauban is up to third.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:34 , Michael Jones

It’s a steady pace as Not So Sleepy is overtaken by Constitution Hill who is around half a length behind I Like To Move It. Vauban is going nicely in fourth as they leap over the fourth.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:33 , Michael Jones

I Like To Move It has pulled through to lead the race ahead of Not So Sleepy and Constitution Hill in third.

State Man brings up the rear of the field.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:31 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! All the experts and punters are backing Constitution Hill to romp home with a sizeably lead. All the pressure is on jockey Nico de Boinville to get him over the line, can he do it?

Not So Sleepy heads off in the lead.

Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:27 , Michael Jones

Seven horses run in the Champion Hurdle. Constitution Hill is the best horse in the race but he’ll face competition from State Man and possibly Vauban.

Constitution Hill heavily backed

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:25 , Michael Jones

The big race of the day sees Constitution Hill head out to the post as the favourite. Trainer Nicky Henderson is bidding for a record-extending ninth win in the race.

The six-year-old has been a star since his debut at Sandown in December 2021 and comes into this one with wins in all five of his starts under rules.

Last time out in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park on Boxing Day, he beat stablemate Epatante by 17 lengths and is ridden by jockey Nico de Boinville who knows how to handle pressure.

Odds cut on Corach Rambler

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:22 , Michael Jones

Following his victory in the Ultima Handicap Chase, Corach Rambler has seen his odds cut to 8/1 for the Aintree Grand National in April making him the joint-favourite with last year’s winner Noble Yeats.

Trainer Lucinda Russell won the National in 2017 with One For Arthur.

Champion Hurdle latest odds

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:19 , Michael Jones

Latest odds from Betfair for the 3.30pm Champion Hurdle. Lots of people backing Constitution Hill into the clear favourite position.

Constitution Hill 4/11

State Man 10/3

Vauban 14/1

I Like To Move It 22/1

Zanahiyr 35/1

Not So Sleepy 150/1

Jason The Militant 200/1

Best free bets for Cheltenham: Which bookies have best offers?

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:16 , Michael Jones

Cheltenham Festival returns with punters ready to again assess the runners and riders in pursuit of betting success.

With millions wagered each year on events like the Gold Cup, it is a lucrative week for the bookmakers, with forecast wind and rain perhaps making 2023’s races even more unpredictable than usual.

A number of the United Kingdom’s biggest bookies are offering free bets to celebrate Cheltenham week. Here are the best offers if you’re looking to have a flutter:

Best free bets for Cheltenham: Which bookies have best offers?

Lucinda Russell speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:13 , Michael Jones

Winning trainer Lucinda Russell said: “That was amazing. What a horse he is. He is absolutely brilliant. I was so nervous beforehand because the horse means so much but Derek is so cool.

“He has got a brilliant mind - the horse has got a quite interesting mind. I am so proud and pleased.”

Back-to-back wins for Corach Rambler

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:10 , Michael Jones

Here’s the moment Corach Rambler clinched consecutive victories in the Cheltenham Ultima Handicap Chase.

Derek Fox reacts to Corach Rambler’s victory

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:06 , Michael Jones

Winning jockey, Derek Fox, said: “He’s a tremendous horse and he rode even better than last season even.

“I was told by Peter Scudamore to ride him with plenty of confidence and don’t change anything from last year. He’s a nerveless horse, he’s the horse of a lifetime really.

“It needed a lot of things to go right when you commit to dropping back early. It suits his run style. I am over the moon.”

Ultima Handicap Chase result

Tuesday 14 March 2023 15:02 , Michael Jones

1 Corach Rambler - 6/1

2 Fastorslow - 7/1

3 Monbeg Genius - 6/1

4 The Goffer - 7/1

5 Oscar Elite - 8/1

CORACH RAMBLER WINS THE ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:59 , Michael Jones

Corach Rambler wins in consecutive years at the Ultima!

He pips Fastorslow to the line but a head or slow with Monbeg Genius finishing third.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:57 , Michael Jones

Harpers Brook is holding onto his slight lead but behind him the field is bunching up for the final push. Three fences to go, Harpers Brook and Fantastikas come together as they leap over.

The rest of the field catches up with the leaders, it’s anyone’s race with two to jump.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:58 , Michael Jones

Fastorslow leaps over the final jump as the field spreads out Corach Rambler is on his heels, this is going to be a sprint to the finish.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:56 , Michael Jones

Happygolucky is up to fourth behind Top Ville Ben and Fantastikas. Harpers Brook jumps over the water fence and there’s just six fences to go.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:55 , Michael Jones

Harpers Brook is reigned in by Fantastikas and Top Ville Ben. Corach Rambler is in midfield close to The Wolf and the whole field leaps over the fence that signals the halfway stage of the race.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:54 , Michael Jones

Fantastikas and Top Ville Ben leap over the first of the open ditch fences as Harpers Brook heads onto the outside and opens up a lead of a couple of lengths.

12 fences to go.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:52 , Michael Jones

Cloudy Glen leads the pack over the first fence before Fantastikas pushes past and sticks to the rail.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:51 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! There’s a whole heap of contenders in this handicap chase. There are 23 riders involved over this three mile course so it’ll come down to the tactics of the jockeys.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:48 , Michael Jones

Defending champion Corach Rambler heads out to the post with the favourite tag at 5/1. Trainer Lucinda Russell has her sights set on the Grand National this year and a consecutive victory in the Ultima Handicap will put Corach Rambler in good stead.

Mullins reacts to El Fabiolo win

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:43 , Michael Jones

Trainer Willie Mullins spoke to 5 Sports Extra saying: “To get on the board early is always fantastic. We have a lot of fancied horses today. You have to temper your expectations because we know at least half won’t win.

“I didn’t get to enjoy the win because I was looking at Dysart Dynamo. I stopped looking at the winner because I knew he would win. But thankfully both horse and jockey have got up.”

Willie Mullins gets first winner of 2023 Cheltenham festival

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:40 , Michael Jones

Willie Mullins is up and running at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival thanks to El Fabiolo’s victory in the Arkle Challenge Trophy.

That is Mullins’ fifth Arkle win in the last nine years.

Ultima Handicap Chase latest odds

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:36 , Michael Jones

Here are the odds for the 2.50pm Ultima Handicap Chase from Betway:

Corach Rambler 13/2

Monbeg Genius 7/1

Fastorslow 8/1

Nassalam 17/2

Into Overdrive 10/1

Oscar Elite 10/1

The Goffer 11/1

Fantastikas 12/1

Happygolucky 14/1

The Big Breakaway 14/1

Threeunderthrufive 16/1

Cloudy Glen 22/1

Remastered 22/1

Fanon D’Estruval 25/1

The Wolf 25/1

Good Boy Bobby 28/1

Top Ville Ben 28/1

Harpers Brook 33/1

Laskalin 33/1

Tea Clipper 33/1

Glamorgan Duke 50/1

Iceo Madrik 50/1

Karl Philippe 50/1

El Fabiolo wins the Arkle Challenge trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:32 , Michael Jones

Take a look at how El Fabiolo won the Arkle Challenge trophy.

Ultima Handicap Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:28 , Michael Jones

Next up is the three mile Ultima Handicap Chase before the big one, the Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy at 3.30pm.

Corach Rambler took the spoils for Lucinda Russell’s stable last year, and he is back with just a 6lb higher mark.

He is vying with Jonjo O’Neill’s Monbeg Genius, a novice who looks to be on a very fair mark despite having won his last three starts in handicaps.

Nassalam and Into Overdrive are seasoned over fences and should be in the mix too.

Dysart Dynamo is okay

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:23 , Michael Jones

Dysart Dynamo led the Arkle Challenge Trophy until the final jump where he went down under tired legs after hitting the fence.

The horse is fine and has been walked back to the paddock after his fall.

Winning jockey Paul Townend praises El Fabiolo

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:21 , Michael Jones

Winning jockey Paul Townend, who finished second in the first race, praised El Fabiolo saying: “ He came alive at the right time. The engine’s always been there.

“As he matures and gets stronger he can go out in trip but if he keeps winning two-milers that’s OK.”

Arkle Challenge trophy results

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:19 , Michael Jones

1 El Fabiolo - 11/10

2 Jonbon - 2/1

3 Saint Roi - 11/1

4 Straw Fan Jack - 50/1

EL FABIOLO WINS THE ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ CHASE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:17 , Michael Jones

El Fabiolo kicks on after the last and storms ahead of Jonbon, he sprints over the finish line and earns the win for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend!

Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:15 , Michael Jones

El Fabiolo takes the last jump in first place ahead of Jonbon.

Dysart Dynamo falls!

Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:14 , Michael Jones

Three fences to go and Jonbon is closing on Dysart Dynamo with El Fabiolo asked to kick on. The leading three bunch up to each other a Saint Roi makes a move up from the middle of the field.

Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:13 , Michael Jones

Effernock Fizz at 150/1 is pushing up nicely and sits comfortably in fourth behind the leaders with eight fences to go. Dysart Dynamo has established a lead of two or three lengths over Jonbon.

Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:11 , Michael Jones

And they’re off! Dysart Dynamo sets off at a canter as expected and heads out to the front of the field with Jonbon and El Fabiolo close behind.

Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase

Tuesday 14 March 2023 14:03 , Michael Jones

The First Grade One race of the week is up next and the odds seem to be suggesting a clash between El Fabiolo - from the Willie Mullins yard - and Jonbon.

El Fabiolo impressively won at Leopardstown last time out while Jonbon has had a couple of wins at Warwick this season.

Last season they met over fences at the Aintree Grand National meeting with Jonbon winning by a neck, can he repeat that result this afternoon?

Expert tips for Arkle Challenge Trophy

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:59 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Ruby Walsh tip: El Fabiolo to win, but the value each-way is Saint Roi

“El Fabiolo has shown us he can clout one and knows exactly how to save himself, so you’d have to be with that. El Fabiolo will win the race, but as regards to having a bet I’d prefer Saint Roi each-way at 8/1 with the nine runners. With Dysart Dynamo in there, the three of these are going to go hard and there’s no way the three of them are going to keep going and I think Saint Roi will come and pick up the pieces.”

Ed Chamberlin tip: Jonbon

“[On Jonbon] The best jumper in the field and El Fabiolo had a hard race in his prep.”

Oli Bell tip: Jonbon

“[On Jonbon] Despite his Warwick win not blowing people away I think he will improve off the back of it and be hard to beat.”

Alex Hammond tip: El Faibolo

“[On El Fabiolo] Jonbon didn’t impress at Warwick and this lad did at the Dublin Racing Festival. He’ll do for me.”

Cheltenham Festival 2023: Full Schedule

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:56 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Need a reminder of the full schedule for Cheltenham week?

The Independent has you covered:

Cheltenham Festival 2023 race card, runners and full schedule

Arkle Challenge Trophy odds

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:49 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Courtesy of MyBettingSites, here are the latest odds for the second race of the opening day at Cheltenham.

El Fabiolo 5/4

Jonbon 7/4

Dysart Dynamo 5/1

Saint Roi 15/2

Hollow Games 33/1

Ha D’Or 66/1

Straw Fan Jack 66/1

Effernock Fizz 125/1

Ballybreeze 150/1

Next up at the Cheltenham Festival

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:48 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The action comes thick and fast throughout four days of top-class National Hunt racing - there is little time to re-charge before the Arkle Challenge Trophy, which is about 20 minutes away.

Marine Nationale wins the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The first winner of the 2023 Cheltenham Festival takes the roar of the crowd as it enters the Winners’ Circle, looking a little spooked by the volume as the packed stands salute their first winn

“I put my neck above the parapet about six months ago when I said this horse was a weapon,” trainer Barry Connell says. “Everything worked out according to plan. We are coming back here for a double tomorrow. Michael O’Sullivan is unreal. He’s a future star.”

Supreme Novices' Hurdle results

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:39 , Harry Latham-Coyle

1 Marine Nationale (M J M O’Sullivan) 9-2

2 Facile Vega (P Townend) 9-4 Fav

3 Diverge (Mr P W Mullins) 25-1

Winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan hails Marine Nationale

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:38 , Harry Latham-Coyle

“Unbelievable,” O’Sullivan says to ITV. “A massive relief. I’m so, so lucky to get on this horse. We’re having an amazing season. The horse is just incredible. I turned in there and I wasn’t sure what I was holding on to but, by god, he won easily.

“Days like these are what I’ve been dreaming of since I was riding ponies. All my family have been so supportive of me.”

MARINE NATIONALE WINS THE SUPREME NOVICES HURDLE

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:34 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A storming finish from Michael O’Sullivan and Marine Nationale, holding back to make certain of the clearance of the final fence and then simply charging home.

Facile Vega had looked well placed but just couldn’t quite kick on up the final straight. The first eight finishers are all Irish - ominous signs for the British trainers.

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:34 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Over the penultimate bend and Facile Vega has roared ahead!

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:34 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Three to take in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. Facile Vega is starting to come through.

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Tuesday 14 March 2023 13:33 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Up the hill with four hurdles to go. High Definition and Rare Edition continue to set the pace, each jockey clad in rather fetching purple with white accents.

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