The Cheltenham Festival is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, attracting thousands of spectators and punters each year. Last year saw a return of the ‘Cheltenham roar’ for the first time since 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, and it was refreshing to see stands packed out with those checking the Cheltenham Gold Cup betting odds as well as assessing the favourites for the Festival’s other big races.
Featuring a range of races, the four days at Cheltenham are considered the ultimate test of skill, speed, and stamina for both horses and jockeys. While the jockey’s skill is often highlighted as the key to success at the Cheltenham Festival, the role of the trainer should not be underestimated. A good trainer can make all the difference in preparing a horse for the rigours of the festival, ensuring that it is in peak physical condition and has the best chance of winning.
As we look ahead to an intense four days at Prestbury Park, let’s assess who will be up there in terms of the leading trainers at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. Read on to find out more.
Willie Mullins
Simply put, Willie Mullins is a legend when it comes to Cheltenham. The Irishman is perhaps the greatest trainer of this generation and after a lifetime of racing holds the record for the most winners at Prestbury Park — victorious 88 times over several decades at the top. The favourite to win the leading trainer award again this year, Mullins will have his eye on the likes of Elimay and Galopin Des Champs to add to his 10 winners from last year, although he knows that will be a tall order despite how successful the last year has been.
“Getting winners at Cheltenham is a relief. We are just aiming to get on the board if we can and hopefully some of the right ones will win,” he said. “They say we have 14 favourites for Cheltenham and around half the favourites win every year so I think so that’s not a bad number to have!”
Paul Nicholls
Having been crowned champion trainer 13 times, Paul Nicholls is no stranger to Cheltenham success. Despite some poor form as of late, failing to win in the last two Festivals, many see now as his time to end that run and get things back on track. His key entries include Greaneteen in the Champion Chase and Bravemansgame, who comes in at 9/1 for the Gold Cup after a strong run at Kempton where he won the King George VI Chase.
Nicky Henderson
Despite the likes of Gordon Elliott and Henry de Bromhead possessing strong stables, it’s worth looking at Nicky Henderson this year as he looks to build on the 72 winners he’s saddled so far. Surely in the twilight of his time at the races, the Seven Barrows man will want to bow out with some more victories under his belt, coming in at 8/1 to win the top trainer award.
His best chances of success this year come in the Champion Hurdle with Constitution Hill, Jonbon in the Arkle Chase and Shishkin, who will want to improve on last year’s performance at Prestbury Park and win the Ryanair Chase.
