Day Two of the Cheltenham Festival features four Grade Ones, as well as the always-competitive Cross Country Chase. Find a breakdown of all races on Wednesday here.
Turners Novices’ Hurdle
Paul Nicholls-trained No Drama This End will be a hot favourite for the Grade One Turners Novices’ Hurdle. The six-year-old is unbeaten in three starts under rules, and was last seen landing the Grade Challow Hurdle at Newbury.
However, a few strong Irish challenge includes the second and third from the Grade One Ireland Novices’ Hurdle, with Ballyfad and King Rasko Grey both appearing suited to a longer trip.
Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase
A strong renewal of the Grade One Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase is set for day two of the Festival. High-class Gordon Elliott-trained Romeo Coolio has opted to run in the race instead of the Arkle, and the seven-year-old looks likely to progress over further after winning back-to-back Grade Ones.
BetMGM Cup
The first handicap on day two is the BetMGM Cup, run over two miles and five furlongs. Willie Mullins and Dan Skelton have dominated this race over the last three years, with the former holding leading claims with Storm Heart and Kopeck De Mee.
Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase
The exciting Cross Country Chase will feature a field of 14 runners, headlined by the return to action of last year’s winner, Stumptown, for Gavin Cromwell. However, a lack of race fitness could be a concern.
Champion Chase
The Grade One Champion Chase is the feature on Day Two of the Festival, with Majborough expected to be a red-hot favourite to avenge his defeat in last year’s Arkle. The Willie Mullins star was excellent over two miles in the Grade One Dublin Chase last month.
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup
The final handicap on Day Two is the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup over two miles. Cheltenham winner Be Aware will give Harry and Dan Skelton a leading chance, while Vanderpoel and Personal Ambition ensurea strong British hand.
Grade One Champion Bumper
Wednesday’s racing concludes with the Grade One Champion Bumper. Willie Mullins has a dominant record in the race, and he has entered seven. Love Sign d’Aunou and The Irish Avatar feature among the leading contenders after making unbeaten starts to life under rules.
Gordon Elliott-trained Keep Him Company is one of the most experienced in the field, while Noel Meade’s The Mourne Rambler and Dublin Racing Festival victor Broadway Ted shouldn't be overlooked.