The Cheltenham Festival continues to draw crowds and fashionistas alike as Style Wednesday arrives, bringing with it the thrill of top-tier horse racing and the excitement of competitive spirit. Occurring on March 12, 2025, this festive day showcases not only the elite equine athletes but also spectators dressed to impress, ready to enjoy the excitement at the famous Prestbury Park.
Headlining today’s event is the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase at 4:00 PM, where the beloved horse Jonbon seeks victory after previously finishing second in major races such as the 2022 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and the 2023 Arkle Novices’ Chase. Jonbon has had quite the season, previously recording two Grade 1 wins, solidifying his status as the horse to beat. Yet, he faces stiff competition from the likes of Marine Nationale, Energumene, and last year’s Champion Chase winner, Captain Guinness.
Racegoers today can expect not just thrilling horse racing but also the lively fashion spectacle as Style Wednesday encourages participants to flaunt their best outfits. While it may not be called Ladies’ Day anymore, the commitment to sartorial excellence is unwavering. The unpredictably wintry forecasts, including sleet expected to fall until 10 AM, might inspire some last-minute outfit adjustments, yet the enthusiasm remains high.
The opening race, the Turners Novices' Hurdle, is scheduled for 1:20 PM, with key participants such as Final Demand and The New Lion, followed by the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase at 2:00 PM, featuring Ballyburn and Better Days Ahead. The day's schedule includes various other races leading up to the grand finale, each packed with competitive narrations.
With the weather turning icier as the morning dawned and snow flurries disrupting preliminary festivities, the Clerk of the Course, Jon Pullin, confirmed the conditions are altering. Reports indicate light snow shifted to sleet, allowing for hopes of clearing skies as the day progresses. The Met Office predicts highs of around 9°C and lows of 3°C for the day.
The Cheltenham Festival has historically attracted celebrities and sports icons, and this year is no different. On Champion Day, the festival saw famous figures like Olympians Zara and Mike Tindall, Sir Alex Ferguson, and actor Ben Miller among the crowd. The anticipation remains high for who might grace the grounds on Style Wednesday.
Traffic updates have emerged, warning attendees about potential delays due to road closures and altered routes during the festival. With high footfall expected, including on routes such as the M5 and A40, mobility across Cheltenham may prove challenging today.
Emphasizing the vibrant culture surrounding this event, the significant atmosphere created by the crowds ensures unforgettable moments. On the opening day, more than 55,000 guests attended, expressing shared joy and support, making the festival not just about the races but also about community and celebration.
With ITV Racing providing live coverage from 12:45 PM to 5:00 PM on ITV1, fans can find thorough insights and expert analyses from veteran jockeys and presenters. Racing enthusiasts can also stream every race for free via the Paddy Power app, allowing everyone to easily engage with the events.
For those with betting interests, expert opinions abound. The advice includes focusing on established horses for races throughout the day. Notable tips from pundits suggest paying special attention to Final Demand for the Turners Novices’ Hurdle and Ballyburn for the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase.
Jon Pullin later commented on the forecast conditions, sharing insights on the adjustments needed for the changing weather patterns—"The snow should clear up within the next hour," he noted, emphasizing preparations for racetime. Attendees will need to adapt, ensuring both style and comfort amid potentially damp conditions.
The forecast hugs the fine line between excitement and uncertainty, which truly captures the essence of the Cheltenham Festival. With each race offering opportunities to witness fortunes shift, the stakes have never felt higher.
Providing detailed race timings today, the scheduled line-up is as follows: 1:20 PM for the Turners Novices’ Hurdle; 2:00 PM for the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase; 2:40 PM for the Coral Cup; 3:20 PM for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase; 4:00 PM for the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase; 4:40 PM for the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Handicap Chase; and wrapping up with the Weatherbys Champion Bumper at 5:20 PM.
The community spirit felt at this major sporting festival reflects not just the focus on horse racing but also the unyielding passion shared among attendees for their horses and the exhilarating environment. With each gallop and jump today, stories will be crafted and memories made, underlining the significance of the Cheltenham Festival.