EXPLORING THE UNIQUE COURSES OF THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

A look at the top 3 courses of the iconic festival

The Cheltenham Festival, a cornerstone of British jump racing, is distinguished by its three unique courses: the old course, the new course, and the cross-country circuit, each contributing to the festival's reputation as a premier racing event.

The old and new courses at Cheltenham run parallel to one another, with the new course known for its demanding downhill fence and a longer run-in for steeplechases, offering a distinctive challenge that differs from the old course. The layout of the new hurdles track is particularly noteworthy; in two-mile hurdle races, the majority of hurdles are concentrated in the early part of the race, with only two placed in the final seven furlongs. This arrangement tests the agility and speed of the participants early on, while the tough uphill finish that follows demands exceptional stamina and finishing power from the horses.

In contrast, the old course presents a more traditional setup but is no less challenging, with some of the toughest fences in the country. Horses that have proven themselves on similar tracks, like Hexham and Newcastle, often do well here.

Nestled between these two is the cross-country circuit, adding yet another layer of complexity with its varied terrain and obstacles, which requires a unique blend of skill, endurance, and tactical racing from the horses and jockeys alike.

These courses not only test the mettle of competing horses but also create a dynamic and varied racing experience that highlights the Cheltenham Festival as one of the most esteemed events in the horse racing calendar.