Gordon Elliott marked a significant return to form at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival, securing his first win with Wodhooh in the Mares’ Hurdle. This victory is particularly noteworthy as it also represents Wodhooh’s first Grade 1 win, adding to her impressive record of 10 wins out of 11 races over hurdles.

The 5-6 favorite for the Mares’ Hurdle, Wodhooh’s triumph was a highlight for Elliott, who has trained a total of 42 winners at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival since his first victory with Chicago Grey in 2011. Last year, Elliott’s stable managed only one winner, making this year’s success a welcome turnaround.

Jack Kennedy, the jockey aboard Wodhooh, celebrated his 12th festival win with this latest victory. He expressed his delight, stating, “It’s been a frustrating couple of days, but when you have a mare like her you are waiting on.” Kennedy also noted Wodhooh’s ability to overcome challenges during the race, indicating her potential for further success.

Elliott, reflecting on the win, shared his feelings about the journey leading up to this moment. “I’m absolutely delighted. She was idling halfway up the run in but picked up again. She’s some mare. It’s hard to know how good she is and we’re lucky to have her,” he remarked. This victory comes after a challenging period for Elliott, who has been restocking his horses and striving to regain his previous level of success.

Wodhooh’s performance not only highlights her talent but also serves as a reminder of Elliott’s capabilities as a trainer. Over the years, he has been known for his success with notable horses, including Tiger Roll, who won at the Cheltenham Festival five times. This legacy adds weight to the significance of Wodhooh’s win.

As the festival progresses, observers are keen to see how Elliott’s stable will perform in the remaining events. With Wodhooh’s victory, there is renewed optimism surrounding Elliott’s training program and the potential for more wins. Details remain unconfirmed about future entries, but the momentum from this win could pave the way for further successes.

In summary, Gordon Elliott’s first win at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival with Wodhooh not only marks a personal achievement but also revitalizes his standing in the competitive world of horse racing. As he continues to rebuild his team, the anticipation for what lies ahead grows stronger.

The post Gordon Elliott Celebrates First Win at 2026 Cheltenham Festival appeared first on News Casino.

“There has previously been a difference between St Patrick’s Day and other holiday periods when it comes to parking charges,” stated Liz Kimmins, a spokesperson for the local council. This statement highlights a significant shift in how St Patrick’s Day will be recognized in 2026, particularly regarding parking regulations in Belfast, Newry, and Lisburn.

Starting from 2026, St Patrick’s Day will be treated as a non-charge day for Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) in these cities. This change aligns the holiday with other recognized holidays, providing residents and visitors with greater flexibility to enjoy the festivities. Kimmins added, “This will provide greater flexibility for those wanting to either enjoy the festivities or simply to visit one of the cities to socialise or shop on their day off.”

Historically, St Patrick’s Day has been treated differently than other holiday periods regarding parking charges, which often posed challenges for those wishing to partake in celebrations or visit local businesses. The new legislation aims to eliminate these barriers, making it easier for people to celebrate the day without the concern of parking fees.

In addition to the local celebrations, St Patrick’s Day coincides with the Cheltenham Festival, which features St Patrick’s Thursday, a day filled with major horse races. The festival is a highlight in the racing calendar, attracting thousands of visitors who often incorporate the festivities into their plans.

Weather and Racing Highlights

The weather during the Cheltenham Festival on St Patrick’s Thursday is expected to be mild, with a high temperature of 14°C and a low of 3°C. This pleasant weather is likely to enhance the experience for attendees, both at the races and in the cities celebrating St Patrick’s Day.

Key races during the festival include the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase, both of which are anticipated to draw significant attention. The ground at Cheltenham is rated as Good, Good to Soft in places, which should provide favorable conditions for the horses and excitement for the spectators.

Looking Ahead

As St Patrick’s Day 2026 approaches, the changes in parking regulations are expected to facilitate a more inclusive celebration for all. Local councils will continue to manage off-street car parks, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the anticipated influx of visitors. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional events or activities planned for the day, but the alignment of parking regulations marks a positive step towards enhancing the overall experience of St Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland.

The post St Patrick’s Day 2026 appeared first on News Casino.

Dan Skelton’s horses have demonstrated remarkable form at the Cheltenham Festival, with standout performances that have caught the attention of racing enthusiasts. Notably, Maestro Conti, trained by Skelton, showcased his capabilities with a solid course record, having previously won on good ground at Kempton.

Among the notable entries, Tellherthename made his debut under Skelton’s training, raising hopes for a strong performance if past issues did not resurface. Additionally, Sinnatra is anticipated to perform well in the County Hurdle, reflecting the consistent quality of Skelton’s training.

Panic Attack has emerged as one of Skelton’s best chances of the week, further solidifying the trainer’s reputation. Kabral Du Mathan, who was entered in the Stayers’ Hurdle, also displayed good form leading up to the race, indicating a well-prepared team.

In a remarkable display, Supremely West won the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle at impressive odds of 100-30. This victory adds to the growing list of successes for Skelton at the festival, where his horses have consistently shown competitive spirit.

Home By The Lee, at odds of 33-1, triumphed in the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle on day three of the festival, marking a significant achievement for both the horse and Skelton’s training methods. Skelton expressed pride in the horse’s performance, stating, “I’m very proud of the horse. Sometimes when the light shines on you you can crack under the heat, but he didn’t.”

Further emphasizing the quality of Skelton’s training, Heart Wood won the Ryanair Chase by a decisive 10 lengths, with odds of 9-2. This victory contributed to the two handicap races won by Dan and Harry Skelton during the week, showcasing their effective partnership.

The Cheltenham Festival has historically been a challenging event, and Skelton’s success this year reflects his dedication and the quality of his horses. As the festival progresses, observers are keen to see how other entries like Meetmebythesea and White Noise will perform, with the latter having odds of 40-1 in the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final outcomes for some of Skelton’s other entries, but the early results suggest a promising week ahead for the trainer and his team. With the festival still ongoing, the anticipation for further successes remains high.

The post Dan Skelton’s Strong Showing at Cheltenham Festival appeared first on News Casino.

JP McManus’s horse Fact To File was withdrawn from the Ryanair Chase, a significant event that altered the dynamics of the race. The decision was primarily due to ground conditions that were deemed unsuitable for the horse’s performance.

Causes of Withdrawal

Willie Mullins, the trainer of Fact To File, expressed frustration regarding the ground conditions at the Cheltenham Festival. He noted that the ground was officially described as good, good to soft in places, but he felt it was too firm for his horse.

Mullins stated, “These horses are too hard to find, too hard to get. In jump racing we want to have soft in the description of the ground.” He further elaborated on his concerns, mentioning, “I walked it, coming across the track… I said, ‘wow, this ground is going to be too good for her,’ sure enough, she wasn’t able to act on it.”

Before the withdrawal, Fact To File was the odds-on favourite for the Ryanair Chase, having previously won the race the year before by a remarkable nine lengths. The scheduled race time was set for 4:00pm GMT, covering a distance of two miles and four and a half furlongs.

Following Fact To File’s withdrawal, Heart Wood emerged victorious in the race. This outcome not only highlights the impact of the withdrawal but also raises questions about the adequacy of the ground conditions promised by the organizers.

Trainer’s Concerns

Mullins indicated that they were promised watering of the course, which he felt was not executed adequately. JP McManus also shared his dissatisfaction, stating, “I found it, too much for him, I was a bit, part of the course, altogether, not to my liking.”

Looking Ahead

As the racing community reflects on this incident, further developments regarding the management of ground conditions at major events like the Cheltenham Festival are anticipated. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes or responses from the organizers following this incident.

The post Jp mcmanus appeared first on News Casino.

Tom Bellamy jockey rode White Noise to victory in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival on March 12, 2026. This marked a significant milestone for Bellamy, as it was his first win at this prestigious event.

White Noise was a 40/1 shot in the race, surprising many by winning by multiple lengths over the competition. The closest challengers, Place de la Nation and Oldschool Outlaw, finished second and third, with odds of 28/1 and 15/2 respectively.

Earlier in the season, White Noise had already secured three wins, showcasing a strong performance leading up to the festival. Bellamy, now 31 years old, expressed his elation, stating, “I’ve waited my whole life for this day, I’m genuinely speechless.” He further added, “Great performance from a really likeable filly. This tops my whole career, not just my season.”

In a light-hearted moment during a live television interview, Bellamy’s mother, Sue Bellamy, humorously offered him up for a girlfriend, saying, “A girlfriend! Anyone out there… he’s a nice lad!” She also remarked, “It’s what dreams are made of!” reflecting the family’s joy over the victory.

Tom Bellamy had been dreaming of winning at the Cheltenham Festival since he was a child, and this victory is a testament to his dedication and hard work in the sport of horse racing. The event has a rich history, and Bellamy’s win adds a new chapter to his career.

As the racing community celebrates this achievement, reactions from fans and fellow jockeys are expected to pour in, highlighting the significance of this win for Bellamy and his future in the sport.

The post Tom Bellamy Jockey Achieves First Victory at Cheltenham Festival appeared first on News Casino.

“We waited all day for rain that was half-promised, so we made the decision not to run,” said trainer Willie Mullins regarding the withdrawal of Fact To File from the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

Fact To File, the reigning champion of the Ryanair Chase, had been the evens favorite to win again this year. However, the ground conditions, described as Good to Soft, prompted Mullins to withdraw the horse, marking a significant decision given the animal’s previous success.

Last year, Fact To File excelled in the Ryanair Chase, winning by nine lengths, which set high expectations for this year’s race. Mullins, who has trained 118 winners at the Cheltenham Festival, is known for his strategic decisions, especially when it comes to ground conditions.

Owner JP McManus expressed his trust in Mullins’ judgment, stating, “I left it to Willy, but I can overrule him.” This highlights the collaborative nature of their partnership, though ultimately, the decision was made based on the horse’s welfare.

Following the withdrawal, Heart Wood went on to win the Ryanair Chase, further emphasizing the unpredictable nature of horse racing. The decision to withdraw Fact To File was not taken lightly, especially considering the horse’s previous performance and the expectations surrounding it.

Additionally, it is worth noting that two horses tragically died during the first two days of the 2026 Festival, raising concerns about the overall safety and conditions of the event. Mullins was the only trainer to withdraw a horse on that day, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

“The ground is not good enough. If the ground is going to be like this we’re not going to bring them,” Mullins added, reinforcing his commitment to the horses’ well-being over competitive ambitions.

As the festival continues, the focus will be on the remaining races and the performance of other horses, including Jonbon, who has participated in 27 races and won 20 of them. The outcomes of these events will be closely watched by fans and participants alike.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further implications of Fact To File’s withdrawal on the overall standings of the festival.

The post Fact To File Withdrawn from Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham Festival appeared first on News Casino.

The Cheltenham Festival has kicked off with a remarkable performance from the horse No Drama This End, who has emerged as the 9/4 favorite in the Turners Novices Hurdle. This event not only highlights the horse’s capabilities but also sets the stage for a thrilling week of racing at one of the sport’s most prestigious events.

The significance of No Drama This End’s performance is underscored by the absence of Galopin Des Champs, who has been ruled out of the Gold Cup due to injury. This development has shifted the focus onto other competitors, including Final Orders, who recently clinched victory in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase. The absence of a strong contender like Galopin Des Champs has heightened the stakes for the remaining horses, making No Drama This End’s status as the favorite even more critical.

Trained by the esteemed Paul Nicholls, a 14-time Champion trainer, No Drama This End is backed by a solid team, including jockey Harry Cobden, who rode Kitzbuhel in a previous race. The combination of Nicholls’ experience and Cobden’s skill has contributed to the horse’s current standing in the competition, drawing attention from racing enthusiasts and analysts alike.

The Cheltenham Festival is known for its competitive spirit and high stakes, with several key races scheduled throughout the week. The Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle is set for 15:20, followed by the Mares’ Hurdle at 14:40 and the Ryanair Chase at 16:00. Each of these events will further shape the narrative of the festival and could impact the future of horses like No Drama This End.

Audrey Turley, a prominent figure in the racing community, commented on the significance of the moment, stating, “I would say (retirement) would be the plan.” This remark reflects the emotional weight of the festival, as it not only showcases the thrill of competition but also the bittersweet nature of racing, where the end of one chapter often leads to the beginning of another.

As the festival progresses, the racing community will be watching closely to see how No Drama This End performs against its rivals. The excitement surrounding this horse is palpable, with fans eager to witness what unfolds in the coming days. The phrase, “what happens when dreams come true!” resonates strongly as participants and spectators alike hope for memorable moments during this iconic event.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future of other horses and trainers involved in the festival, but the anticipation continues to build. With each race, the potential for surprises and upsets remains high, ensuring that the Cheltenham Festival will be a focal point for horse racing enthusiasts around the world.

The post No Drama This End Horse Triumphs at Cheltenham Festival appeared first on News Casino.

Before the recent developments, ITV was known for its traditional approach to sports coverage, particularly during events like the Cheltenham Festival. The network relied heavily on established personalities, including Chris Hughes, who had been a part of their coverage for six years.

Decisive Changes

However, ITV has now incorporated influencers into their coverage, marking a significant shift in strategy. A notable moment was the viral success of a clip featuring influencers GK Barry and Calfreezy, which garnered over 1.3 million views. In contrast, Chris Hughes was dropped from ITV’s coverage, reportedly due to cost-cutting measures, a claim he has publicly denied.

Immediate Effects

The decision to include influencers has drawn mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing concern about the aging fan base of racing. One fan commented, “The state of the comments section here. Racing is in a bad way with an ageing fan base.” This sentiment highlights the challenges ITV faces in appealing to a broader audience.

Expert Perspectives

Chris Hughes addressed the situation, stating, “Just FYI, press reports were not true around this. I never once asked for more money, I was simply told they were cost cutting across sport.” This statement underscores the complexities behind ITV’s programming decisions and the impact on its personnel.

Programming Developments

In addition to changes in coverage, ITV is also expanding its programming slate. The thriller ‘Gone,’ starring David Morrissey as a headmaster suspected of murder, showcases ITV’s commitment to diversifying its content. Filmed in and around Bristol, including Downside School in Stratton-the-Fosse, ‘Gone’ represents a shift towards more dramatic storytelling.

Ongoing Storylines

Meanwhile, in the realm of soap operas, ‘Coronation Street’ has confirmed that Ben Driscoll could be Steve McDonald’s secret half-brother, adding intrigue to the show’s narrative. Additionally, the affair between Maggie and Jim McDonald remains a central plot point, illustrating the ongoing evolution of character dynamics within the series.

As ITV navigates these changes, the integration of influencers and shifts in programming highlight a broader trend in media consumption. While the network aims to attract a younger audience, the reactions from traditional fans indicate a delicate balance that ITV must maintain.

The post ITV X: A Shift in Coverage and Programming appeared first on News Casino.

The Cheltenham Festival, a highlight in the horse racing calendar, has brought significant attention to Sir Alex Ferguson’s involvement in the sport. Prior to this year’s event, expectations were high for Ferguson’s horses, particularly Galopin Des Champs, who was anticipated to compete strongly in the Gold Cup.

However, a decisive moment occurred when it was announced that Galopin Des Champs has been ruled out of the Gold Cup due to injury, with retirement now being considered. Audrey Turley, a key figure in the horse’s management, stated, ‘I would say (retirement) would be the plan,’ highlighting the gravity of the situation.

In contrast, other horses associated with Ferguson have shown promising performances. Regent’s Stroll, owned by a syndicate including Ferguson, was auctioned for an impressive price of £660,000, reflecting the high stakes involved in the sport. Additionally, Final Orders secured a victory in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase, showcasing the potential of Ferguson’s racing stable.

Maestro Conti remains unbeaten and is emerging as a leading contender in the Triumph Hurdle, with co-owner Ged Mason expressing optimism: ‘If he could follow in the footsteps of Caldwell Potter, we’d be delighted.’ Caldwell Potter himself had previously won the Pertemps final at last year’s festival, setting a high standard for the current competitors.

Other notable performances at the festival include Kitzbuhel, who was ridden by Harry Cobden and performed well, and King Rasko Grey, who won the Turners Novices Hurdle. These results illustrate the competitive nature of the festival and the unpredictability of outcomes.

As the festival progresses, the impact of these developments on Ferguson’s reputation and future in horse racing remains to be seen. The changes in the status of Galopin Des Champs, alongside the successes of other horses, create a complex narrative for Ferguson’s racing endeavors.

Expert opinions suggest that while setbacks like Galopin Des Champs’ injury are unfortunate, they are part of the sport’s inherent unpredictability. The memories of past successes, as noted by Turley, are cherished even as new challenges arise.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future plans for Galopin Des Champs, but the excitement surrounding the festival continues to engage fans and stakeholders alike. The performances of Ferguson’s horses today will undoubtedly shape the narrative of his legacy in horse racing.

The post Alex ferguson horses running today appeared first on News Casino.

Harry Redknapp’s horse Jukebox Man is poised to compete in the highly anticipated Cheltenham Festival 2026, which will take place from March 10 to March 13 in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. This festival is renowned as the World Cup of jumps racing, drawing around 250,000 spectators each year.

Immediate Circumstances

Redknapp, a well-known figure in the horse racing community, expressed his excitement, stating, “Just to have a runner in the Gold Cup is a dream come true.” The feature race of the festival, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, is described by the Jockey Club as the most prestigious steeplechase in the world, with a prize fund of £625,000.

The Cheltenham Festival is estimated to contribute £274 million to the local economy, highlighting its significance beyond just the races. This event spans four days and features seven races each day, making it a major highlight in the horse racing calendar.

Harry Redknapp’s involvement in horse racing spans over 70 years, beginning in his childhood when his grandmother was a bookmaker’s runner. He currently owns shares in 26 horses, showcasing his deep-rooted passion for the sport.

Redknapp further remarked, “We’ve come into the Champions League today,” indicating the high stakes and competitive nature of the upcoming festival. However, he also acknowledged the challenges of the sport, saying, “You’re not always successful.” He noted the resilience of jump jockeys, who often return to racing just weeks after injuries.

As the festival approaches, excitement builds among fans and participants alike, with many looking forward to the thrilling races and the vibrant atmosphere that Cheltenham is known for. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final lineup of horses, but anticipation continues to grow as the event date nears.

The post Horse racing: Breaking News: at the Cheltenham Festival 2026 appeared first on News Casino.