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Cheltenham Betting 2015 is under way

Faugheen and Ruby Walsh winning The williamhill com Christmas Hurdle Kempton 2014Faugheen and Ruby Walsh winning The williamhill com Christmas Hurdle Kempton 2014
© Photo Healy Racing

This is the time of year when the world of Jump racing gathers for a four day feast of super Steeplechase action. From 10th March huge crowds and millions of online and television viewers will focus their gaze at the Cheltenham Festival.

For some fans it is the sheer thrill of watching the best horses on the planet compete for glory, for others it's the expectation of pocketing some extra cash with a get rich quick scheme or some simple lucky flutters, while for many it's the prospect of enjoying the most festive occasion in sport as the friendly Irish invasion of the West Country sets the scene for the celebration of the upcoming St Patrick's Day. Whatever it is that brings the best jockeys, trainers and the most ambitious owners together in to the cauldron of the Prestbury Park amphitheatre of dreams, the true winners are the punters who make this the event of the season! Daily betting highlights include:

  • The smart money for the opening day has been going on Faugheen who takes on Hurricane Fly for the Champion Hurdle. Faugheen's betting odds shortened by the announcement that Ruby Walsh will be taking the reins. Many bookies think the New One could be a sure thing as long as the ground stays dry, although no one is discounting last year's winner Jezki.
  • Day two's Champion Chase sees the challenge the racing community has been waiting for. Sprinter Sacre, who was missing through injury last year, will be seeking to dislodge Sire De Grugy's crown - although Sire and Champagne Fever will soon put his fitness to the test over the tough two mile course.
  • Thursday's highlight World Hurdle sees Saphir Du Rheu looking good to deliver for owner Andy Stewart and trainer Paul Nicholls.
  • Friday' Gold Cup is so open it's a tough one to call. Silviniaco Conti is the current favourite according to bookmaker William Hill but the big question is whether he can get over that fall three fences from home in last year's Gold Cup.

With 27 contests spread over the four days, one thing's for sure, this is a marathon not a sprint, and one which William Hill, the UK's top bookmaker, will be covering continuously from beginning to end. William Hill is offering several bonus offers including Bet £10 Get £30, with bonus code C30, for new customers. In addition, there is an "supreme" money back offer for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, which takes place Tuesday March 10th at 1:30PM. If your bet doesn't come in, you can get your money returned as a free bet.