Assessing the Gradient of the Cheltenham Finish Line
Annually, horse racing enthusiasts and experts engage in discussions surrounding the notorious 'Cheltenham Hill' and its compatibility with the competing horses at the Festival. Journalists recently scrutinised the renowned ascension towards the finish line at Cheltenham Racecourse, juxtaposing its gradient with that of other racetracks in Britain and Ireland.
Elevation at Cheltenham Finish
From the two-furlong mark to the concluding post, horses at Cheltenham endure an ascent of 11.48 metres. This arduous finale for the competitors had been anticipated, prompting a comparison with other courses featuring uphill finishes.
Cheltenham Versus Irish Racetracks
Naas, a left-handed course, is an evident point of comparison with Cheltenham. Irish trainers often utilise Naas to ready their horses for the Festival challenge. At Naas, horses ascend 5.73 metres over the final two furlongs, presenting a resemblance to Cheltenham, albeit with a less pronounced incline.
Leopardstown, another Irish track with an uphill finish, serves as a prelude for many Irish-trained contenders. Here, the final quarter-mile climb measures 6.63 metres, mirroring Naas in gradient but half as steep as Cheltenham.
Galway Racecourse, situated in the west of Ireland, poses a formidable climb from the last two fences to the post, scaling 13.7 metres. However, the ascent over the ultimate two furlongs is a modest 6.5 metres, reflecting a flattening terrain in the home stretch.
Cheltenham Versus UK Racetracks
Several UK courses feature challenging inclines over the last two furlongs to the finish line, such as Sandown Park in Surrey (10.24 metres), Carlisle in the north of England (10.18 metres), Tramore in Co. Wexford (9.19 metres), and Downpatrick in Northern Ireland (10.71 metres).
Epsom Racecourse, famed for its undulating track, presents a unique layout. Contrary to expectations, horses race downhill in the home straight, with the final quarter-mile descent measuring 5.78 metres to the finish line.
In conclusion, while numerous British and Irish courses boast demanding uphill finishes, none quite match the severity of the challenge awaiting at the impending Cheltenham Festival.