The Festival
Tuesday 15th to Friday 18th March 2011
Witness the crowning of champions
The Festival produces an atmosphere that is unique. The combination of the huge crowds, the amazing setting and the sense that you are watching history being made produces a sporting cocktail like no other. During the week, over 200,000 people will experience The Festival in person, many of them travelling significant distances to be here - and across the nation, more than £500 million will be bet on the outcome of the 26 races. Don't miss out. Make sure you're part of this legendary event.
Tuesday 15th March
The roar of the crowd as the tapes rise for the first race signals the moment when the 12 month wait is over and Jump racing's favourite fixture is back. The big race is the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle.
Wednesday 16th March
Many people's favourite day of year with seven ultra competitive races, featuring the top 2 mile chasers locking horns in the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase. Big Zeb will be looking to defend the crown he won last year.
Thursday 17th March
Thursday is Ladies day - the perfect excuse to dress up and have a great day out. The fashion awards last year saw local racegoer Carly Shave drive away in a brand new Alfa Romeo Mito. We also celebrate the huge role that women play in racing, and, of course, there are also six top class Jump races. The Ladbrokes World Hurdle takes centre stage, with Big Buck's a hot favourite to defend the crown he won so well in 2009 and 2010. In 2011, Ladies Day is also St Patrick's Day!
Friday 18th March
The biggest day in the racing calendar and one of the best moments of the sporting year. All eyes will be on Imperial Commander as he bids to improve his amazing record at Cheltenham at land a second totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup.