CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 11 - 14 MARCH 2025
ST. PATRICK’S THURSDAY St. Patrick’s Thursday is where the spirit of Cheltenham meets the soul of Ireland, creating an unmatched festival atmosphere that’s both joyous and fiercely competitive.
T he day is a celebration of all things Irish, from the exhilarating cheers that echo from the stands to the thrilling races that unfold on the course. Feel the passion as the horses with Irish roots vie for glory, and witness the fervour of Irish racing fans, whose energy turns the racecourse into a sea of green and gold. At the centre of it all is the Ryanair Chase and the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle, two of the festival’s most anticipated events, where unforgettable performances and moments of glory are etched into Cheltenham history. St. Patrick’s Thursday offers an experience filled with Irish music, dance, and camaraderie. From the lively atmosphere of the Guinness Village to the more exclusive settings of the hospitality suites, every moment is drenched in the unique blend of fun and tradition that only St. Patrick’s Day at Cheltenham can offer. Nothing feels like Cheltenham. The championship races today are the Ryanair Steeple Chase at 15:20 & Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle at 16:00.
TIMES RACE
DISTANCE
13:20
2m abt 1f
The Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2)
14:00
2m abt 4½ f
The Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase
The Pertemps Network Final (A Handicap Hurdle Race) (Listed) (Premier Handicap)
14:40
abt 3m
15:20
2m abt 4½f
The Ryanair Steeple Chase (Grade 1)
16:00
abt 3m
The Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
16:40
2m abt 4½f
The TrustATrader Plate (A Handicap Steeple Chase) (Premier Handicap)
17:20
3m abt 2f
The Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Steeple Chase (0-145)
*Please note the timings are subject to change.
THE HORSES Two Championship races today, one for the best staying hurdlers and one for chasers whose optimum trip falls somewhere between the Gold Cup and the Champion Chase. The list of previous winners of The Ryanair Chase is sprinkled with stars, including Un De Sceaux, Vautour, Frodon and Cue Card. This year Protektorat, part owned by the late John Hales, would prove an emotional victory. The Paddy Power Stayer’s Hurdle was once the kingdom of Big Buck’s, victorious in this race four times from 2009-2012. Last year’s winner Teahupoo could be favourite again today.
30 The Festival Preview Magazine
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