As many as six of the 28 races contested at the Cheltenham Festival are handicaps, and the weights have been revealed for the 2024 edition.

For the uninitiated, a handicap is a lead weight applied to the horse’s saddle, with the higher-rated animals in the field carrying a heavier mark than those considered to be of a lower rank.

The idea is to create a level playing field, and while that isn’t always how handicap races play out, these renewals tend to be some of the most intriguing on the jumps and steeplechasing calendar.

A Weighty Issue

The release of the weights can have a significant impact on the racing betting too, with bettors seeking those horses that have been fairly treated by the handicapper.

One of the biggest Cheltenham Festival 2024 bets is a horse that has been dropped 10lb in the weights. Milan Tino races off a mark of 136 in his native France, but has been dropped to 126 by the British handicapper – his odds for the Boodles Handicap Hurdle have been cut to +800 as the public have moved to back J.P. McManus’ horse.

He's made Burdett Road look ordinary 🤯

Sir Gino is sensational in the JCB Triumph Trial 👏 pic.twitter.com/nrHFMlmgVl

— CheltenhamRacecourse (@CheltenhamRaces) January 27, 2024

Although there’s been exceptions to the rule, as many as nine of the last 12 winners of the Boodles have carried a handicap between 10st 6lb and 11st 5lb – a bracket which Milan Tino comfortably finds himself within at 10st 13lb, despite a handy third to Sir Gino in a non-Festival race in January.

The ante-post favorite, Lark In The Mornin’, finds himself in that range too at 10st 9lb, although the second favorite will – just – have to do things the hard way: Batman Girac has been handed a 11st 6lb mark by the handicapper.

Another race on day one of the Cheltenham Festival, the Ultima Handicap Chase, will be impacted by the weights carried by its declared field. However, a wide change in handicap hasn’t affected Corach Rambler – the 2023 Grand National winner has triumphed in the Ultima the last two years, carrying 10st 2lb and 11st 5lb respectively!

Tearing Up the History Books

An interesting scenario could unfold in the Grand Annual Handicap Chase, with the two early sportsbook favorites both carrying a heavier weight than their connections might have otherwise liked.

My Mate Mozzie and Saint Roi are considered the most likely horses to win the two-mile chase over fences, however they will carry 11st 8lb and 11st 10lb respectively – for context, nine of the last eleven winners in this particular race have carried between 10st 11lb and 11st 6lb.

Saint Roi 'could be anything' as the County Hurdle winner attempts to prove he is up to Champion Hurdle class later this season#ITVRacing

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) October 22, 2020

The idea behind handicap racing is that the very best horses can overcome a tough handicap and outpace the field anyway – only time will tell if My Mate Mozzie and Saint Roi will fit the bill.

The fourth and final day of the Cheltenham Festival sees the prestigious County Handicap Hurdle contested, with the handicapper likely yet again to be a determining factor in their outcome.

With a relatively short distance of two miles and a furlong, this is a race in which speed over the hurdles really is of premium importance – hence why only one of the last six winners of the County Handicap Hurdle has carried over 11st 1lb. Will the favorite, Iberico Lord, be able to assert dominance while carrying 11st 1lb exactly?

There are always plenty of subplots and narratives when it comes to the Cheltenham Festival. The Prestbury Cup has become a much talked-about accolade over the last decade, although it has tended to be dominated by the Irish contingent in recent years. Owners will also battle for supremacy and although Willie Mullins has been dominant in recent seasons, the top Cheltenham trainer championship is another interesting angle which tends to keep punters engaged and excited across the five days.

Furthermore, there are a number of high-profile jockeys who will be battling with one another to finish top of the pile come Friday afternoon. Ruby Walsh is the most successful jockey at the Cheltenham Festival, although prior to his retirement, the Irish rider admitted that he still feels the pressure of riding at the prestigious four-day event.

With Walsh having hung up his saddle, the honour of finishing as the top jockey at Prestbury Park has been shared between a number of riders including Nico de Boinville, Davy Russell and Rachael Blackmore, who made history to become the first female to be crowned top jockey in Gloucestershire back in 2021 after riding six winners across the four days.

Blackmore will be present at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, however, she’s had a much quieter couple of years despite winning 16 of her 96 (17%) of her rides over the larger obstacles in Ireland this season.

Paul Townend

Paul Townend has been the most successful jockey over the last five years and the 33-year old will be aiming to clinch a hat-trick of victories when he takes to the turf on March 12th. He rode five winners in 2020 to clinch his first success in the Top Jockey Championship with his most notable success coming on Al Boum Photo in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The six-time Irish Champion jockey has pretty much won everything at this festival and he’ll be looking to clinch a third consecutive success here.

Last season, he rode Galopin Des Champs to victory in the Gold Cup to record his third success in the prestigious contest. He also partnered Lossiemouth to victory in the Triumph Hurdle and was on board Energumene as the popular 10-year old clinched back-to-back victories in the Queen Mother Champion Chase. He was also in charge of Impaire Et Passe in the Ballymore Novices’ Chase and guided El Fabiolo into the winners enclosure following his success in the Arkle.

Predictably, Townend is priced up as the odds-on favourite in the latest Horse Racing betting markets with many of the best UK bookmakers having recently added a number of Cheltenham Festival specials to their site.

Townend is still fighting fit and having so far failed to ride a winner in the Champion Hurdle, he will be determined to partner State Man to victory on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival. Naturally, his partnership with the irrepressible Willie Mullins gives him a fantastic chance of retaining his title in 2024, although the Cork-born rider will have to be at his imperious best in order to fend off a potential challenge from Mark Walsh, Nico de Boinville and Jack Kennedy.

As well as partnering Lossiemouth and El Fabiolo once again, Townend will also ride Ballyburn in the Supreme Novices’ and Jade de Grugy in the Mare’s Novices’.

Mark Walsh

Mark Walsh has never managed to ride more than two winners at the Cheltenham Festival, although the County Kildare-born rider is expected to have a decent batch of rides at this year’s event.

He rode Sire du Berlais to victory at the 2023 festival and if he can manage to stay injury-free, he has every chance of beating his previous record at Prestbury Park.

His book of potential rides could include: Saint Roi (Grand Annual), Majborough (Triumph Hurdle) and Fact to File in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase.

Nico de Boinville

Nico de Boinville already has a Cheltenham top jockey championship under his belt and he’ll be hoping to end Paul Townend’s dominance this time around. The experienced pilot missed most of January with a broken collarbone, however, he appears to have returned to form at just the right time and is likely to ride a few winners in the West Country this March.

Constitution Hill is his most notable ride at the festival, although Shishkin is also another high profile mount alongside Queen Mother Champion Chase entry Jonbon.

Jack Kennedy

Jack Kennedy hasn’t been to the Cheltenham Festival for a number of seasons having endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines due to injury.

The 24-year old has already landed six Grade 1 wins at the festival and will be hoping to add to his haul in 2024. He still has plenty of time on his side and will undoubtedly get his hands on this trophy at some point during his career. He’ll be hoping that he can take advantage of his superb book of rides which includes: Delta Work (Cross Country Chase), Gerri Colombe (Gold Cup) and Teahupoo (Stayers).

You can find more intriguing articles in our section on Wagering & Racing.

Horse racing which is also known as the “Sport of Kings”, is blend of tradition, speed and strategy. These games started since the ancient civilizations where it was not just played as a sport, but it was used to test the excellence and prowess among riders. In today’s world, horse racing is a premier event where spectators come from every division.

This sport offers action to a global audience and also offers a combination of drama and entertainment. From betting to racing, everything is included in this sport. This is a place where the technology meets heritage. While to skills of horses and jockeys are important, the betting and strategies are also important. Cheltenham odds offers a glimpse into the excitement considering the strategies that come with horse racing betting.

Apart from the racing tracks, horse racing plays a significant role in the economies around the world. Sometimes the races are also held to support charitable causes which makes a positive impact in the society.

The United Kingdom is the home to some of the world’s most prestigious horse racing events. As we proceed further in the top horse racing events in the UK, we will also explore why these events are capturing imagination of millions of people.

The Grand National

The high spirits of British horse racing can be witnessed in this even which is the most iconic horse racing events. It is not just limited to the UK, but it has a global following and fanbase. It is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool and every year there are millions of viewers.

The Grand National is famous for its unpredictability and that’s the reason why it has become a national treasure. Families take part in this event along with the casual bettors while they all place bts on their favored horses.

Cheltenham Gold Cup

Another horse racing event that holds a prestigious sport in the UK’s horse racing calendar is the Cheltenham Gold Cup. This takes place as a part of Cheltenham Festival which itself is renowned for its electric atmosphere and a world class jump racing. This cup truly tests the agility, speed and endurance of horses and their jockeys.

This event takes place in Cheltenham Racecourse and it attracts audiences from across the UK and Ireland. The festival is a spectacle of fashion and excellence in sports with the Cheltenham odds closely watched by punters aiming to back the next legendary horse.

Royal Ascot

While the gold cup is meant for jump racing, Royal Ascot stands as a pinnacle in flat racing. This is one of the most historical races with a history and a tradition of 300 years. It is hosted by Ascot Racecourse and is normally attended by British royalty. Apart from horse racing, this event is also a showcase of social affairs and fashion.

The Royal Ascot features high-stakes races which draws competitors from around the world. Its international reputation is built on the foundation of strict dress code and the participation of the highest caliber of thoroughbreds, trainers, and jockeys.

Why These Events Captivate

The Grand National, Cheltenham Gold Cup, and Royal Ascot should not be just considered as races. Being great institutions for horse racing, they embody heritage and excitement for the audience. They all come with competition and traditions which makes them so popular. All of these events are encapsulated with the festive environment which often adds to their vibe.

But apart from the similarities, each of these events offer something unique. For instance, the heart-stopping moments of the Grand National, the strategic battles of the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and the regal elegance of Royal Ascot.

These festivals are meant to celebrate the best of British horse racing by drawing spectators and participants from around the world. These are the places where history is made, legends are born and memories are forged.

Conclusion

As we have been through the top tier horse racing events of the UK, the journey has been great so far. There’s something for everyone at these festivals. If you’re a seasoned punter, then you can analyze the Cheltenham odds or if you’re on a family day out, then you can immerse yourself in the excitement of the races.

Grand National, Cheltenham Gold Cup, and Royal Ascot are further beyond their role as sport events. They act like a pillar of the society by contributing in the local economy and supporting charitable causes.

In conclusion, why these events are popular is because the combine sports with culture and present it as a celebration. It is because of these events that we are invited to witness the thrill and share joyous experiences with each other. Moreover, giving enormous opportunities to the bettors, these events add yet another element of fun in their journeys.

In the first episode of the latest series of This Racing Life, we visit three yards in and around Newmarket and take you behind the scenes at the stables of James Owen, Ilka Gansera-Leveque and Sarah Humphrey.

Owen us a rising force in the National Hunt game and has stumbled upon Burdett Road in his first season as a jumps trainer, the high-class former Flat racer looking a natural over hurdles so far and a contender for the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. The trainer gives us the scoop on his big hope - one who he hopes could be a foundation horse for his yard - will also revealing his background in the sport and the many strings to his equestrian bow. Between Arabian horses, point-to-pointers and plenty of pre-training, there's plenty going on!

Ilka Gansera-Leveque has her own yard in Newmarket and the only female trainer in the British ranks while also a practising vet reveals her unque background in racing - via the USA and Germany - and reveals her passion for art. A curator, she displays work at her own stables!

Sareah Humphrey is enjoying something of the limelight in the 2023/24 jumps season thanks to the bold-jumping exploits of her exciting novice chaser Nickle Back and the trainer tells us all about the journey so far as well as her hopes and ambitions for her stable star

This article originally appeared on Racing TV and is published here with permission.

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The Triple Crown, featuring the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, is a cornerstone of American horse racing. Each of these races has its own long-standing history and set of traditions, presenting distinct challenges that highlight the best in horse racing skills and the remarkable abilities of the horses.

The Kentucky Derby, often called The Run for the Roses, marks the beginning of this prestigious series. Scheduled for the first Saturday in May, which in 2024 falls on May 4th, the Derby is celebrated at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, and is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and storied past. This race is run at 1 ¼ miles.

The Preakness Stakes follows two weeks later, on May 18th, 2024, at the historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Known as the Run for the Black-Eyed Susans, the Preakness is shorter than the Kentucky Derby (at 1 3/16th miles) but no less challenging, demanding speed and strategy from its participants.

The final jewel in the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes, often called The Test of Champions, is slated for June 8th, 2024. Customarily held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, this race is the longest of the three, pushing horses and jockeys to their limits once around the 1 ½ mile track. However, due to construction at Belmont Park this year, the Belmont Stakes will be run at the historic Saratoga Race Course for the first time at the distance of 1 ¼ miles – shorter than the race’s traditional distance due to the configuration of the dirt track at Saratoga.

Kentucky Derby Contenders

Fierceness: The Leading Light

Fierceness, earned the Eclipse Award 2023 Champion 2 Year Old Colt under the tutelage of Todd Pletcher. He stands as a formidable front-runner for the Kentucky Derby. With an exceptional victory in the 2023 Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1, this colt has solidified his position at the pinnacle of the leaderboard.

Fierceness, sired by City of Light, has a record of 3-2-0-0, underscoring his capability and consistency on the track. Heading into the 2024 Holy Bull G3, his odds of +1000 in the Kentucky Derby reflect both his past achievements and his potential for future glory.

Locked: The Promising Prospect

Another of Todd Pletcher’s prized contenders, Locked, has earned recognition following his performance in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1. This Gun Runner progeny boasts a record of 4-2-0-2, demonstrating a blend of speed and stamina that could be key in the Kentucky Derby.

Locked, with odds of +5000, is scheduled to compete in the Sam F. Davis G3, a race that will likely be a significant indicator of his readiness for the Derby spotlight.

Timberlake: The Dark Horse

Brad Cox's Timberlake, sired by Into Mischief, has a mixed record that makes him an intriguing dark horse in the Derby rankings. Despite a less-than-stellar performance in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1, he has shown flashes of brilliance.

With a record of 5-2-1-0, Timberlake’s odds of +5000 for the Kentucky Derby suggest he could present a surprise challenge, especially under Cox’s experienced guidance.

Drum Roll Please: The Steady Climber

Also from Brad Cox’s stable, Drum Roll Please has carved a place in the top ten of the Derby rankings. This Hard Spun colt, with a record of 5-2-1-1, has consistently improved at Aqueduct with a 3rd in the Remsen Stakes (Grade 2) followed by a win in the Jerome Stakes.

His odds of +5000 for the Kentucky Derby position him as a potential contender who could steadily rise to the occasion in the coming races.

Honor Marie: The Up-and-Comer

Trained by D. Whitworth Beckman, Honor Marie has made an impact with a win in the Kentucky Jockey Club (Grade 2) with a record of 3-2-1-0.

The Honor Code offspring’s off-the-pace victory in November suggests an ability to adapt and perform under pressure. With a record that speaks to his emerging talent, Honor Marie enters the Kentucky Derby scene as an up-and-comer with promising potential, reflected in his odds for the event.

As the 150th Kentucky Derby approaches, Kentucky betting sites have launched early contender odds, offering betting fans a glimpse into the favorites and potential dark horses. These odds provide valuable insights, not just into the perceived chances of each horse, but also into the dynamics and expectations surrounding this prestigious event.

The Wine Steward: The New York Bred

The Wine Steward, trained by Mike Maker, is emerging as a notable dark horse in the 2024 Triple Crown races. This colt, sired by Vino Rosso, boasts a commendable record of 4-3-1-0, reflecting consistent performance and a tenacity that could shake up the standings. Although The Wine Steward hasn't been seen in action since the Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland, his consistent speed figures suggest a reliable competitor.

Entering the 2024 season with odds of +5000, he could provide a lucrative opportunity for astute bettors. Mike Maker, primarily known for his successes in the claiming game and grass stakes, might not have the high profile of some other trainers, but his capacity to prepare a horse for a significant dirt race shouldn't be underestimated.

The Road Ahead: Preparing for the Ultimate Test

As the journey to the 150th Kentucky Derby progresses, trainers and horses will be tested in various prep races. These events are crucial for accumulating points and honing the skills necessary to compete at Churchill Downs. The leaderboard will undoubtedly see shifts as horses rise and fall in the rankings based on their performances in these preparatory challenges.

Final Words

The Triple Crown trail is a blend of tradition, skill, and raw equine power. As we inch closer to the Kentucky Derby, followed by the Preakness and Belmont Stakes, the horse racing world holds its breath in anticipation.

The early contenders have set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and strategy. Whether it's the established front-runners or the dark horses and underdogs, the road to the Triple Crown is paved with excitement, drama, and the undying spirit of competition.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Steadily through 2021, the name ‘Rachael Blackmore’ began hitting bigger and bigger headlines. Initially, it was the racing pages that would headline the jockey as having collected numerous wins, but then, she became national, even international news. Through an incredible rise to the top of the racing world, Blackmore quickly amassed a devoted fan base and etched her name into the history of books of the sport’s most prestigious meets.

Just in the last five seasons in Great British jump events, the Tipperary-native has earned over £1.6 million, not to mention the €6.3 million earned in Irish jumps over that spell, too. Now atop the sport with one of the most connected followings in the world, it’s strange to think that Blackmore just wanted to compete at an amateur level while completing her degree in equine science.

A life with the ponies led to veterinary pursuits and track glory

In the south of Ireland, Blackmore grew up on a dairy farm ran by her father, who also bred horses and raised ponies. Age 7-years-old, she got her first, Bubbles, which helped to cultivate a fascination and affection for horses. Though she would regularly ride the ponies and even compete in amateur meets, her initial pursuit was to become a vet. As we detail in the Health & Education section, there are many ways to study horses and horse health, with Blackmore taking the formal route of gaining a degree in equine science.

Throughout her course, she’d continue to compete in amateur races, even to the extent that she graduated in absentia as there was a race on the day of the ceremony. The now-31-year-old’s racing days span back to the early ‘00s, even though she never wanted to become a professional jockey – just wanting to ride horses and compete. In 2004, in a race that’s now scribed as the origins of a modern rivalry, she faced Paul Townend for a pony race in Cork.

Blackmore officially turned professional in 2015, with it taking half a year for her to find her first victory. By her own admission, she wasn’t the kind of standout amateur jockey that would usually transition to the professional ranks. As it turns out, all that was needed was the experience of riding as a pro to ignite a future champion jockey. Throughout her rise to prominence, it’s been stated that Blackmore has a smart racing brain, so she just needed the runs and the horses to back it all up.

Read more: Rise of Rachael Blackmore: From Equine Science to Racing Hero

For as long as we can remember, horse racing has been this electrifying sport that just grabs people all around the world. There's something truly thrilling about witnessing these majestic beasts tear down the track. That excitement has seeped into all sorts of entertainment, even into the realm of online casino slots – those games where you can try your luck and maybe win big. So, let's dive into this article where we'll speak about five slot games inspired by the world of horse racing, games that have raced their way right to the top, promising players a good dose of virtual racing thrills and, of course, the potential for some sweet wins.

Derby Day Delight: Unleashing the Power of Virtual Racing

Dive into the world of virtual horse racing with "Derby Day Delight," a slot game that brings the excitement of the racetrack directly to your screen. This game captures the essence of the derby experience, allowing players to place bets on virtual horses and witness the thrilling race unfold before their eyes. With stunning graphics and realistic animations, Derby Day Delight provides an immersive horse racing experience that keeps players coming back for more.

The game's attention to detail extends to the virtual jockeys, each with unique riding styles and strategies. As the reels spin, players can feel the anticipation of the virtual crowd cheering on their chosen horses. If you want to try out the best slot sites in Canada, check out the top pickups on this page before kicking off your online slot experience. The realism of the virtual racing experience in Derby Day Delight elevates the game beyond a typical slot, creating an engaging atmosphere reminiscent of an actual day at the races.

Triple Crown Triumph: A Winning Combination of Slots and Racing Glory

For those seeking the pinnacle of horse racing-themed slot games, "Triple Crown Triumph" delivers a winning combination. Inspired by the prestigious Triple Crown races, this slot game takes players on a journey through iconic racetracks, offering the chance to spin the reels and win big. With symbols depicting jockeys, horseshoes, and the coveted Triple Crown trophy, this game celebrates the grandeur of horse racing while providing an exciting and rewarding gaming experience.

The bonus features in Triple Crown Triumph add an extra layer of excitement, allowing players to experience the intensity of a Triple Crown race. Free spins, multipliers, and interactive mini-games mirror the challenges faced by both jockeys and race enthusiasts. The game's commitment to delivering an authentic horse racing experience contributes to its popularity among players seeking the thrill of the racetrack combined with the potential for substantial winnings in the top Canadian online slots casinos.

Steeplechase Riches: Conquer Obstacles, Win Prizes

"Steeplechase Riches" adds a unique twist to the traditional horse racing slot genre by incorporating the excitement of steeplechase events. Navigate through obstacles, jump over hurdles, and aim for victory as you spin the reels in this adrenaline-pumping slot game. With bonus rounds that mimic the challenges of a steeplechase course, players can enjoy a dynamic and immersive gaming experience while chasing the riches that await them at the finish line.

The game's obstacle-filled bonus rounds provide players with a sense of control over their destiny, much like a jockey guiding their horse through a challenging course. Successfully overcoming hurdles in these bonus rounds translates to additional prizes and increased winning opportunities in the base game. Steeplechase Riches appeals to players who appreciate skill-based elements in slot gaming, offering a unique and engaging experience within the horse racing theme in casino slots Canada .

Jockey's Jackpot: Ride to Riches with Skillful Spins

"Jockey's Jackpot" puts players in the saddle, allowing them to take on the role of a skilled jockey aiming for the ultimate jackpot. This slot game combines traditional slot mechanics with skill-based elements, requiring players to demonstrate their prowess in mini-games that simulate the strategies employed by jockeys on the racetrack. Players inch closer to the jackpot with every successful spin, making "Jockey's Jackpot" a thrilling and interactive horse racing-themed slot experience.

The incorporation of skill-based mini-games sets Jockey's Jackpot apart from other slot games, offering a refreshing departure from the purely luck-based nature of traditional slots. Players must navigate their virtual horses through strategic challenges, adding a layer of strategy and engagement to the overall gaming experience. This unique blend of skill and chance makes Jockey's Jackpot a standout choice for players looking for a more interactive and immersive slot gaming adventure.

Golden Gallop: Chasing Fortunes on the Reels

In the world of horse racing-themed slot games, "Golden Gallop" stands out as a true gem in the best online slots casinos. This visually stunning slot captures the elegance and prestige of the racing world with its golden-hued design and intricate detailing. Featuring symbols like thoroughbred horses, gold trophies, and prestigious racetracks, "Golden Gallop" offers a luxurious and captivating experience for players who seek both aesthetic appeal and the opportunity to chase substantial winnings.

The attention to visual detail in Golden Gallop extends to the symbol animations, creating a sense of opulence and grandeur. With every spin, players are treated to the sight of majestic horses galloping across the screen, accompanied by the glittering effects of gold coins and trophies. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Golden Gallop delivers on the promise of substantial winnings, making it a popular choice among players who appreciate a visually stunning game with lucrative rewards.

Conclusion

Horse racing-themed slot games provide a unique blend of excitement, strategy, and the chance for substantial winnings. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or a casual gamer, these five slot games – Derby Day Delight, Triple Crown Triumph, Steeplechase Riches, Jockey's Jackpot, and Golden Gallop – offer an array of experiences that showcase the thrill and grandeur of horse racing while providing the potential for players to gallop to the top with significant jackpots and prizes. As technology continues to advance, we can only anticipate more innovative and immersive horse racing-themed slots that will further elevate the gaming experience for enthusiasts worldwide.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Staying chaser Threeunderthrufive is set to tackle the Grand National Fences at Aintree for the first time in his career when he lines up in the Becher Handicap Chase. It will be his second start of the season, as he finished second in the Grade Three Badger Beer Handicap Chase on his reappearance.

Paul Nicholls’ runner won four races over fences in his novice campaign. Although he did not score last season, he finished in the places in some big handicap chases, including the Scottish Grand National at Ayr.

Nicholls’ Chaser Tops Betting for Aintree Feature

Threeunderthrufive is the +700 favorite in the horse racing odds for the 2023 Becher Handicap Chase. Nicholls will be hoping his horse handles the bigger obstacles on his first outing around the Grand National Course at the Merseyside venue.

Congratulations to @PFNicholls and team on the record breaking 172nd win in a season with Threeunderthrufive #PerthFestival pic.twitter.com/Z0f5gpSDSJ

— perthracecourse (@PerthRacecourse) April 21, 2021

The Ditcheat runner is likely to be one of the leading racing tips for the prestigious chase, as he has shown over the last couple of years that stamina will not be a problem for him at Aintree. He won three times over the distance of 3m as a novice, with victories coming in the December Novices’ Chase and Hampton Novices’ Chase, two races at Grade Two level.

Nicholls campaigned his nine-year-old chaser in some big races last season. He finished eighth in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, while a month later, he traveled up to Ayr, finishing fourth of 28 runners in the Scottish Grand National. The latter was over the distance of 4m, and he relished the stamina test.

Champion Trainers Knows All About Success Over Grand National Fences

If Threeunderthrufive does win this year’s Becher Handicap Chase, it will be a fourth success in the race for Nicholls. The Champion Trainer prevailed in 2004 with Silver Birch, Eurotrek gave him a second triumph two years later, while in 2007, Mr Pointment landed his hat-trick.

Nicholls also had one of the best days in his career at Aintree in 2012 when Neptune Collonges won the Grand National for him. The grey horse was called the winner after a photo finish, ending the trainer’s wait for a maiden success in the race.

If Threeunderthrufive does shine at Aintree in Becher Handicap Chase, he could be back at the same course in April for the world’s most famous steeplechase where he’d be taking on the defending champion Corach Rambler.

Make Me A Believer and Fantastic Lady Lead the Challenge Against Threeunderthrufive

In what is set to be a competitive field at Aintree, recent Exeter winner Make Me A Believer is one of the horses scheduled to take on Threeunderthrufive. David Pipe’s runner won a handicap chase over 3m in Devon on his first start of the campaign. The handicapper has put him up 7lb in the weights for that victory.

🟦🟨 Bill Baxter leads them home in the Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Handicap Chase

He's on a roll!#ITVRacing | #GrandNational@samtwiston | @wgreatrexracing pic.twitter.com/tgIEzRMZvH

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 14, 2023

Nicky Henderson is a trainer often represented in the biggest races of the season in the UK, and he will saddle Fantastic Lady. The eight-year-old mare has featured three times over the Grand National fences, with her best result coming in the Topham back in April when she was second behind Bill Baxter.

A maximum field of 30 runners will feature in the 2023 Becher Handicap Chase and it will be the 32nd running in the history of the Aintree contest.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world and is certainly one of the most attractive as it garners attention from just about every corner of the globe.

The result of a race doesn’t depend on the breed of horse as much as it does its training and the jockey who rides it. Still, not all breads are created equal and there are only a select few that meet the requirements to enter the world’s top races.

This list takes a look at five of the favorite jockeys prefer to race.

Thoroughbred

The thoroughbred is by far the most popular racehorse in the world and remains a jockey’s first choice. These horses are loved for their remarkable speed and endurance - they can reach top speeds of 50 mp/h and keep it up for as long as two miles.

This breed is the first choice among jockeys worldwide and is especially loved in America. Kentucky is the heartland of thoroughbred racing, making it all the more attractive to fans as they can take advantage of KY sportsbook bonuses due to sports betting being legalized in the state in late September.

Kentucky, renowned as the epicenter of thoroughbred racing, hosts some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The most iconic among them is undoubtedly the Kentucky Derby, often called "The Run for the Roses." Held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown and attracts a global audience. It's celebrated not just for its high-stakes competition but also for its rich traditions, including mint juleps and elaborate hats.

Another notable event in Kentucky's horse racing calendar is the Keeneland Sales, which, while not a race, plays a pivotal role in the thoroughbred racing industry. This world-class horse auction in Lexington is where many future racing stars are bought and sold. Additionally, the Breeders' Cup, which rotates locations but often takes place at Keeneland or Churchill Downs, is a two-day event that marks the culmination of the horse racing season, attracting the best thoroughbreds from around the globe. These races, combined with the state's deep-rooted equestrian culture and the recent legalization of sports betting, make Kentucky an unrivaled destination for horse racing enthusiasts.

Thoroughbreds were considered ideal for racing as warm-blooded creatures consistently perform at peak levels.

Arabian

Arabian horses originate from the Arabian Peninsula and are used for sport in many territories. While smaller than thoroughbreds, they are markedly smarter and more aggressive. They also have a more defined bone structure, carry their tails higher, and have shorter, arched necks. The differences between Arabian and thoroughbred breeds are immediately noticeable.

This breed is not as fast as a thoroughbred nor has as much stamina. However, it is still a favorite among jockeys and remains popular around Europe and the United Arab Emirates.

Spectators can typically enjoy and bet on an Arab race before thoroughbred events at many British competitive events.

Quarter Horse

The quarter horse, also known as the American quarter horse, is a favorite for short-distance races. It gets its name from its ability to outrun other breeds over a quarter of a mile or less and reach top speeds of 55 mp/h.

According to the American Quarter Horse Association, these horses have been bred in North America since the 1600s and remain the largest breed in the country. That is despite the popularity and money involved in thoroughbred racing.

The breed has a short head, a muscular body, a broad chest, and strong quarters. They are also used as working ranch horses, at rodeos, and other shows.

Standardbred

Standardbred horses, also known as trotters or pacers, are muscular breeds that are heavier than thoroughbreds and have longer bodies. They are typically used for harness racing, a type of race in which horses pull two-wheel carts instead of being ridden by a jockey.

They can be found in many other countries nowadays, having been developed in North America. Their lines can be traced back to England in the 1700s, however.

Harness racing has become popular in many U.S. states, parts of Europe and Australia.

Paint Horse

The paint horse is another popular American breed. It was developed by the crossing of spotted horses with quarterhorses and thoroughbreds. They are normally black and white in color and have large pinto spotted patterns.

Paint horses are unlikely to take part in the same races as any other horses on this list but are still considered among the top sports breeds in the world. The breed is also used in other events such as show jumping or hint seats.

In conclusion…

Selecting the right breed of horse is crucial for jockeys to win races. While the breed itself is not the only factor, it still plays a vital role in determining the outcome of a race.

It is worth noting that many other breeds of horses are used for racing, jumping, and other sports. However, the breeds listed above remain the most popular among jockeys and have a proven track record of success.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.