In a recent podcast, our panel pinpointed horses flying under the radar for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival. Four selections emerged, including Grade One winners and potential handicap contenders.
This prestigious meeting showcases a variety of Grade I races, including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and Stayers' Hurdle. Betting activities during the festival are substantial, with hundreds of millions of pounds wagered throughout the week. One of Cheltenham's defining characteristics is its electric atmosphere, often referred to as the "Cheltenham roar," signifying the tremendous noise generated by the enthusiastic crowd as the starter lifts the tape for the event's opening race.
Ben Linfoot - Broadway Boy (Brown Advisory)
Ben Linfoot highlighted Broadway Boy as a horse flying under the radar. Trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies, this staying novice chaser impressed at Cheltenham this season. In a recent open handicap on the December Gold Cup card, he overcame mistakes to win with a BHA and Timeform rating 150. Broadway Boy, priced at 16/1 for the Brown Advisory, offers appeal with his course form and staying prowess.
David Johnson - Jonbon (Ryanair Chase)
David Johnson selected Jonbon for the Ryanair Chase, depending on his performance against El Fabiolo in the Clarence House Chase. Nicky Henderson noted Jonbon's shift from two-and-a-half miles to two miles. If Jonbon faces defeat, connections may opt for Ryanair, currently viewed as open. With uncertainties surrounding other contenders, Jonbon offers strong potential at 14/1.
Ed Chamberlin - Shanagh Bob (Albert Bartlett)
Ed Chamberlin proposed Shanagh Bob as an under-the-radar Albert Bartlett contender. Like last year's favourite, Stay Away Fay, Shanagh Bob's grinding style and December win make him an appealing choice. Priced at 16 to 20/1, he quietly gains momentum for the Albert Bartlett.
Billy Nash - Sa Majeste
Billy Nash chose Sa Majeste, who is absent from Cheltenham Festival handicap markets. Trained by Willie Mullins, Sa Majeste displayed promise with two runs, including a victory over Noble Yeats at Limerick. Nash believes Sa Majeste has untapped potential and could become a dark horse in festival handicaps later in the season.