Before the match on March 18, 2026, expectations were high for Cheltenham, who had been performing well in League Two. They entered the game looking to secure a victory against Crewe Alexandra, who were struggling and needed points to avoid a third consecutive defeat.

The decisive moment came early in the second half when Jake Bickerstaff scored for Cheltenham, putting them ahead 1-0. However, the game took a turn in the 85th minute when James Connolly equalized for Crewe with a header from a corner, leveling the score at 1-1.

Cheltenham had opportunities to extend their lead, notably in the 69th minute when they nearly doubled their advantage. A shot from Thomas was parried by Crewe’s goalkeeper Ian Lawlor, and Isaac Hutchinson‘s follow-up struck the post, denying them a crucial second goal.

The draw was significant for Crewe, as it allowed them to avoid a third successive defeat and kept them in touch with the play-off places. The match showcased the resilience of both teams, with Crewe fighting back late in the game to secure a point.

Only a fine stop from Joe Day prevented Crewe from claiming all three points in added time, as he denied Calum Agius a potential winner. The match ended with both teams sharing the spoils, reflecting the competitive nature of League Two.

Overall, the outcome was a testament to the determination of both sides. Cheltenham will reflect on missed opportunities, while Crewe will take confidence from their late equalizer, which keeps their hopes alive in the league.

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The Ryanair Mares Novices Hurdle has quickly developed its own identity since its inception in 2016. This Grade 2 race, also known as the Dawn Run, is run over a distance of 2m179y and can feature a full field of up to 22 mares. Among the contenders for the 2026 edition is Bambino Fever, trained by Willie Mullins.

Bambino Fever is coming off a successful season, having won the Champion Bumper at last year’s Festival. Currently, she is the favorite for the upcoming race, with odds standing at 1/1. Mullins has a strong history with this event, having won it five times previously, further solidifying Bambino Fever’s status as a leading contender.

However, the competition is fierce. Oldschool Outlaw, who previously defeated Bambino Fever on her hurdling debut at Naas, is listed at odds of 11/2. Other notable horses include Echoing Silence, boasting back-to-back wins and Listed-level form, with odds of 14/1, and Carrigmoornaspruce at 9/1.

In addition, Full Of Life, trained by Henry De Bromhead, is another horse to watch. Darragh O’Keeffe, a jockey associated with De Bromhead, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to race, stating, “I’m very grateful to be racing for Henry.” This sentiment reflects the camaraderie and respect within the racing community.

As the race approaches, observers are keen to see how Bambino Fever will perform against her rivals. The anticipation builds as the event date, March 12, 2026, draws near. Brian Acheson, commenting on O’Keeffe’s performance, noted, “Darragh on the horse is the hero. He’s done it all now.” This highlights the importance of the jockey’s role in the success of the horse.

With the stage set for an exciting race, all eyes will be on Bambino Fever and her competitors. The outcome remains uncertain, but the combination of Mullins’ training and Bambino Fever’s past achievements positions her as a strong contender in this prestigious event.

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Cheltenham Day 3, set for March 11, 2026, features some of the most anticipated races of the festival, including the prestigious Stayers’ Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase. With a maximum runner field of 22, the competition is expected to be fierce, showcasing top contenders and emerging talents.

Key Horses to Watch

Among the standout horses is The Bluesman, trained by Olly Murphy and ridden by Sean Bowen. Carl Evans remarked, “The Bluesman is a handsome chap, and his chasing career is coming along nicely.” Another horse to keep an eye on is Wodhooh, trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy. Kim Bailey noted, “With Lossiemouth going for the Champion Hurdle, this race looks set up for Wodhooh. She’s tough, consistent and a winning machine.”

Ma Shantou, trained by Emma Lavelle and ridden by Harry Cobden, is also expected to perform well. Tom Peacock commented, “There are a lot of old hands who might be past their best in this race but Ma Shantou has a younger set of legs.” Additionally, Banbridge, trained by Joseph O’Brien and ridden by Sean Bowen, aims to improve on his previous unplaced finish in this race two years ago. Evans highlighted his recent form, stating, “Banbridge showed his wellbeing when beaten no further than a flared nostril by The Jukebox Man at Kempton on Boxing Day.”

Stayers’ Hurdle Insights

The Stayers’ Hurdle is particularly noteworthy this year, featuring 11 runners. Past winners Teahupoo and Bob Olinger are among the favorites, with Teahupoo having previously beaten Bob Olinger by 7 lengths in the Grade One Christmas Hurdle. This race is shaping up to be a showdown between seasoned competitors and promising newcomers.

Emerging Talents

Other notable horses include Fact To File, who was untouchable in the previous year’s race, and Gericault Roque, trained by David Pipe, boasting a racing mark of 129. The competition is expected to be intense, with three young, progressive stayers also in the mix. Details remain unconfirmed about their performance potential, but their presence adds an exciting dynamic to the race.

Ryanair Chase Expectations

The Ryanair Chase is another highlight of Cheltenham Day 3, drawing attention from racing enthusiasts. As the day unfolds, observers will be keen to see how the horses perform under pressure and whether any surprises emerge from the field.

As Cheltenham Day 3 approaches, anticipation builds for a day filled with thrilling races and competitive spirit. With expert tips and insights on key horses, fans and bettors alike are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable day at the festival.

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Dan Skelton is training L’Eau Du Sud for the Champion Chase at Cheltenham, following a remarkable victory in the Shloer Chase where the horse won by 15 lengths. This performance comes after a lengthy absence of 223 days from racing, raising expectations for his upcoming challenge.

L’Eau Du Sud has had a stellar season so far, winning both of his races by a combined total of 33 lengths. Skelton noted, “He loves running fresh,” emphasizing the horse’s preference for racing after a break. The horse competes in the colours of the late John Hales, adding a sentimental touch to the upcoming race.

In addition to L’Eau Du Sud, Skelton has other contenders in the mix. Kateira is highlighted as his each-way horse of the week for the Coral Cup, carrying 11 stone—a significant reduction from her previous weight of 12 stone. Skelton remarked, “I have put up Kateira as my each-way horse of the week in all the previews and the ground has come right for her in the old Coral Cup.”

Another horse, Bossman Jack, has shown promising form in his last two outings, while Soldier Reeves finished second in a race at Haydock prior to Cheltenham. Meanwhile, Majborough recently won the Dublin Racing Festival by an impressive 19 lengths, making him a formidable competitor.

Skelton’s ambitions extend beyond individual races; he aims to surpass Willie Mullins in the trainers’ championship, a goal that has driven his training strategies this season. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Majborough, stating, “We will have to do a lot to beat Majborough, but we are very happy with our prep.”

As the Champion Chase approaches, observers are keen to see how L’Eau Du Sud performs after his long layoff and whether Skelton’s preparations will pay off. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final line-up and conditions for the race, but anticipation is building in the racing community.

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Alan Brazil missed his live broadcast from Cheltenham today, a notable absence given his long-standing role as host of talkSPORT Breakfast. Brazil, who is 66 years old, has been covering the Cheltenham Festival and was expected to be in the hotseat for this significant event.

This is not the first time Brazil has faced challenges during the festival. He was famously axed by the station in 2004 after going AWOL at Cheltenham, and just two years ago, he missed the final day of coverage due to tiredness and a knee issue. Earlier this year, Brazil also missed several shows due to feeling unwell.

However, Brazil’s absence today was clarified by his colleagues, who stated that he was not drinking but rather resting after the intense coverage of the festival. Shebahn Aherne and Dean Saunders hosted the show in his absence, reassuring listeners that Brazil is fine and will be back on-air tomorrow.

“He’s not made it to day two of Cheltenham, he’s resting up and he’ll be back tomorrow,” Aherne confirmed. Saunders added, “He’ll be back. He’s coming back. He’s not drinking, don’t worry about that.” This statement reflects Brazil’s commitment to maintaining his health during the festival, as he has previously enjoyed a Guinness during his trips to Cheltenham.

Brazil is expected to return to the airwaves for two massive shows later this week, hosting on Thursday and Friday. His absence today marks only one day missed during this year’s festival, a notable improvement from previous years.

As Brazil prepares to return, fans and listeners are eager to see how he will engage with the events of Cheltenham. The festival continues to draw significant attention, and Brazil’s insights are highly valued by his audience.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments, but Brazil’s return is anticipated with enthusiasm by both his colleagues and listeners alike.

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Before the recent Turners Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, expectations surrounding King Rasko Grey were modest. Trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, the horse was sent off at odds of 11-1, suggesting that many did not foresee a strong performance. The racing community had their eyes on No Drama This End, the 5/2 favorite, who was expected to dominate the race.

Decisive Moment

However, the race took an unexpected turn as King Rasko Grey surged ahead, ultimately winning by two and a half lengths. This decisive victory not only marked a significant achievement for the horse but also secured Willie Mullins his eighth victory in the Grade 1 Turners Novices’ Hurdle.

Immediate Effects

The win had immediate repercussions for the involved parties. Audrey Turley, the owner, celebrated a much-needed victory following the earlier disappointment with Galopin Des Champs. Mullins expressed his disbelief at the odds, stating, “I couldn’t believe he was 11/1. People were asking me for one under the radar and I never dreamt he would be anything like 11/1.”

Expert Perspectives

Industry experts are now reevaluating King Rasko Grey’s potential. Nicky Henderson remarked, “He will make a magnificent chaser so we know where we are going with him,” indicating that this victory could be just the beginning for the horse. The performance has sparked discussions about the unpredictability of horse racing, where favorites can falter and underdogs can rise to prominence.

As the dust settles on this thrilling race, the unexpected triumph of King Rasko Grey serves as a reminder of the excitement and unpredictability inherent in horse racing. The implications of this victory will likely resonate throughout the racing community for some time.

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On March 10, 2026, JP McManus celebrated his 75th birthday in spectacular fashion at the Cheltenham Festival, achieving a remarkable 208-1 handicap double. This milestone not only highlights McManus’s enduring influence in the world of horse racing but also underscores his status as one of the most successful owners at Cheltenham.

Victories that Made History

Among the standout performances was Johnnywho, who triumphed in the Ultima Handicap Chase, marking a significant comeback for jockey Richie McLernon, who secured his first festival victory in 12 years. McLernon expressed his joy, stating, “It was tough being out through injury, but thanks to everybody in the NHS in Gloucester. I had a great operation there.” This win was particularly poignant for McLernon, as he had faced challenges in recent years.

In addition to Johnnywho’s success, Saratoga clinched victory in the McCoy Juvenile Hurdle, further solidifying McManus’s dominance at the festival. The horse Jagwar, who was the 3-1 favorite in the Ultima Handicap Chase, also showcased the strength of McManus’s stable, which was noted for having multiple horses priced at 4/1 and under.

McManus’s Legacy at Cheltenham

JP McManus’s achievements at Cheltenham are not new; this latest success marked his 86th festival victory, a testament to his strategic acumen and deep understanding of the sport. Sir Anthony McCoy, a legendary figure in horse racing, remarked that this is the best squad McManus has sent to Cheltenham, highlighting the quality and potential of his horses.

Future Prospects

As the festival progresses, McManus’s horses continue to attract attention, with The New Lion being a notable contender in the Champion Hurdle. The anticipation surrounding his entries reflects the high expectations set by his previous successes.

Reflections on a Special Day

Reflecting on the day, JP McManus expressed his disbelief at the double victory, stating, “It’s unbelievable to have a double here, and with Richie [McLernon] riding him too.” This sentiment captures the joy and excitement that permeated the event, making it a memorable occasion not just for McManus but for all involved.

Looking Ahead

As the festival unfolds, the racing community watches closely to see how McManus’s horses will perform in the remaining events. With a strong lineup and a history of success, expectations remain high. Details remain unconfirmed regarding future entries and potential outcomes, but the excitement surrounding McManus’s involvement in the festival is palpable.

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Sam Lee, a talented amateur National Hunt jockey, died on March 6, 2026, at the young age of 27. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the racing community, particularly among those involved in point-to-point racing.

Career Highlights

During his career, Lee rode four winners under British Horseracing Authority rules, with his most notable victory occurring in November 2019. He triumphed in the Listed Spinal Injuries Association Big Buck’s Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham, riding the horse Golan Fortune, trained by Phil Middleton. This victory marked a significant achievement in his relatively short career.

The point-to-point community has expressed devastation over his sudden death. A joint statement from the Injured Jockeys Fund and the Point-To-Point Authority remarked, “The point-to-point world is devastated to hear of the sudden death of Sam Lee on Friday, March 6.” Lee was not only a skilled jockey but also a beloved figure among his peers.

Tributes and Memories

Brant Dunshea, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, emphasized the importance of amateur jockeys in the sport, stating, “Amateur jockeys are an integral part of our sport, its community and its rich history.” Francesca Poste, one of the trainers Lee assisted during his career, shared her heartfelt memories, saying, “Sam you had become a huge part of our team over the last 6 months. You were a larger than life character; you made the dull mornings seem bright.” This reflects the impact Lee had on those around him.

A Moment of Silence

In honor of Sam Lee, a minute’s silence will be observed at point-to-point race meetings, allowing the community to pay their respects and remember his contributions to the sport. Lee was highly regarded by fellow riders and officials on the point-to-point circuit, further highlighting the loss felt by many.

Legacy in Racing

Lee’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who knew him and in the hearts of the racing community. His dedication to the sport and his vibrant personality made him a standout figure, and his passing is a significant loss to the world of horse racing.

Final Thoughts

As the racing community mourns the loss of Sam Lee, thoughts and condolences are extended to his friends and family. The impact of his life and career will be remembered by many, and his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.

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The upcoming match between Bromley and Cheltenham Town is generating considerable interest among football enthusiasts, highlighting the competitiveness of the National League. With both teams aiming for points to enhance their positioning, this matchup is crucial not only for league standings but also for the morale of the clubs involved.

Recent Performances

Bromley has shown promising form in recent weeks, securing a couple of vital wins that have boosted their confidence and standing in the league. Their home ground advantage at Hayes Lane is notable, with the team often playing aggressively in front of their supporters. Players such as Jack Holland, who has been pivotal in defence, will be key in maintaining their home turf dominance.

On the other hand, Cheltenham Town, despite being traditionally a strong contender, has faced challenges this season that have resulted in fluctuating performances. However, their recent draw against a top-tier team provided a much-needed boost, suggesting they could re-establish their momentum in upcoming games. Key player Alfie Mawson’s leadership in defence will be essential as they face the Bromley attack.

Match Preview

This match will see Bromley’s tactical approach likely focused on maintaining possession and exploiting the wings, as they amplify their offensive play in front of home fans. Cheltenham will need to adapt accordingly, focusing on a robust defence while looking for counter-attacking opportunities to unsettle Bromley’s game plan.

According to sports analysts, the battle in midfield will be critical. The presence of experienced players on both sides could determine the flow of the game. The physicality and strategic positioning will be a test of stamina and composure for both teams.

Conclusion

The Bromley vs Cheltenham encounter promises to be a compelling match, one that could significantly impact the table standings. With both teams equipped with skilled players and tactical prowess, spectators can expect a high-stakes contest. As the match approaches, fans will be keenly watching how both sides prepare and execute their strategies. For Bromley, securing home advantage could be the key to climbing further up the league, while Cheltenham will be eager to prove their resilience and capability of turning their season around.

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The upcoming match between Cheltenham Town and Milton Keynes Dons marks an important fixture in the EFL League One calendar. As both teams aim to secure crucial points in their race for promotion and safety, this encounter promises to be intense and pivotal. With their recent performances under scrutiny, the clash could significantly impact their respective trajectories as the season progresses.

Current Form and Standings

Cheltenham Town has had a mixed start to the season, currently sitting around the mid-table in League One. Their home form is decent, with a notable resilience displayed at Whaddon Road. In their last five matches, the Robins have recorded two wins, two draws, and a loss, highlighting their ability to grind out results against tougher opponents. Key players such as Alfie May and Ryan Broom have been instrumental in this form, providing not only goals but also creativity and energy.

On the other hand, Milton Keynes Dons has struggled to find form, currently facing the threat of relegation. Positioned in the lower half of the table, their recent outings have been disappointing, with the team registering just one win in their last five matches. Concerns surrounding their defence and lack of scoring have resulted in a series of disappointing results that have left fans frustrated. Manager Liam Manning is under pressure to find a solution as the Dons search for a vital away victory.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Cheltenham and MK Dons have met a few times in various competitions, with both teams sharing victories in the past. In their last encounter, Cheltenham emerged victorious with a narrow win, bolstering their confidence significantly. This fact will weigh on the minds of the MK Dons players as they aim to reverse the trend and regain their lost form.

Predictions and Outlook

Heading into this match, both teams are aware of the high stakes. Cheltenham’s home advantage may play a decisive role, especially if they can convert opportunities and maintain pressure on their opponents. Meanwhile, MK Dons will need to tighten their defence and find more offensive rhythm to avoid another disappointing result.

Conclusion

This clash between Cheltenham Town and Milton Keynes Dons is indeed a significant encounter, with potential implications for both teams’ seasons. For Cheltenham, a win could propel them into the upper echelons of the table, whereas for MK Dons, victory is imperative to turn around a faltering campaign. As fans look forward to an exciting match, the outcome will surely influence the rest of the season for both clubs.

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