Snow fell at the Cheltenham Racecourse early on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, creating unexpected conditions for the second day of the Cheltenham Festival, one of the most anticipated events in the horse racing calendar. Attendees were greeted by light snow showers at around 7 AM, as the Met Office had previously predicted sleet until 10 AM. The weather, initially anticipated to be dry and sunny, quickly turned cold, with forecasters indicating temperatures dipping as low as 3°C throughout the day.
The sudden switch from bright blue skies to snowflakes startled racegoers and organizers alike, leading to official warnings from Gloucestershire Highways, advising attendees to drive safely due to the snowy conditions. The agency tweeted, "We appear to have some snow this morning! If you’re heading out please be careful and if you’re off to Cheltenham Festival wrap up warm." The forecasts suggested the snowfall could impact visibility on track, raising concerns among horse trainers and jockeys about race day conditions.
Leading race officials, including the Met Office, suggested the snow would ease by around 10 AM, allowing the planned races to proceed. A representative for the Met Office said, "Don't be surprised if you see some wet snow in some of the showers today. A temporary slight covering is possible on the grass and cars, as seen recently here in Cheltenham." This unpredictability left many fans scrambling to adjust plans for what is traditionally one of the most glamorous days at the festival, known as Style Wednesday.
Despite the chilly reception, the festival’s excitement continued as punters prepared for the day's highlights, including the famous Queen Mother Champion Chase at 4 PM. Over the past year, trainer Willie Mullins had dominated the festival, having claimed nine wins and over 100 Cheltenham Festival victories throughout his career. Mullins will hope to capitalize on his recent successes from the previous festival, where he showcased his star horse, Galopin Des Champs.
The festival resumed its annual tradition of showcasing elite British and Irish racing talent. A variety of races are scheduled, starting at 1:20 PM and concluding around 5:20 PM. The main events are known for not just the thrilling races but the social atmosphere, complete with high fashion and celebrity sightings.
While worries over the weather persisted, many optimistic racegoers looked forward to the atmosphere and camaraderie of the festival. Some shared humorous takes on social media about the snow, with one participant joking, "They will need to get the equestrian equivalent of snow tyres on the horses!" Another chimed, "Just when you think you’ve seen it all… snow has now arrived at Cheltenham! Bright blue skies an hour ago, can’t see the back straight now!" Shows of good humor among attendees served as lighthearted distractions from the otherwise dreary weather.
For those unfamiliar with the annual event, the Cheltenham Festival is famed not only for its competitive racing but also for its emphasis on fashion and social engagement, with fans flocking from all corners of the UK. The festival features 28 races across four days and has become synonymous with both traditional British sporting culture and the thrill of high stakes.
Another poignant moment from the festival included emotions running high when horse owner Charlie McCarthy shed tears of joy after Kopek Des Bordes clinched victory at the Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices' race. "[I was] nervous, naturally, but look - he’s a superb horse. He’s something special," McCarthy stated to ITV, expressing pride and happiness not just for the win but for the personal significance of the moment, especially after recovering from recent health challenges.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, signs suggested the remainder of the festival week would see more favorable conditions, with predictions showing warmer weather and sunny intervals moving closer to the weekend. Apple Weather’s forecast indicated there would be temperatures ranging from seven to nine degrees Celsius during the week, but with the potential for rain on Friday, the going could slightly soften as the prestigious Gold Cup approached.
Traditionally, the Cheltenham Festival is not just about the horses and races, but also about gathering together for breeding excitement and showcasing the best of thoroughbred racing. With snow adding to the day’s unique character, many predicted it would be one for the books—even if snowy conditions caused some logistical hurdles.
The Cheltenham Festival commenced on Tuesday, March 11, and runs until Friday, March 14, featuring key races like the Turners Novices’ Hurdle and the Gold Cup, with expectations high for thrilling competition. Race goers and fans are reminded to enjoy the events with safety precautions and warmth, embracing the enduring spirit of Cheltenham regardless of the weather.