Willie Mullins claims his 100th Cheltenham win as son Patrick rides Jasmin De Vaux to victory in The Champion Bumper…on a shortened Day Two of the 2024 Cheltenham Festival
Cheltenham Festival Stats Gold Cup Friday 15th March
Cheltenham Festival Stats Gold Cup Friday 15th March
Cheltenham Gold Cup Winner Trends
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is a pinnacle of National Hunt racing, and over the years, several trends have emerged that can guide us in predicting potential winners.
Here are the most significant ones:
Age Factor:
Historically, the majority of winners are aged between 7-9 years.
Favourites’ Fortunes: About 5 of the last 12 winners were favourites or joint favourites, indicating that betting markets can be a reliable indicator.
Recent Form:
A strong recent performance is often a good omen, with 9 of the last 12 winners having won their previous run before the Gold Cup
Course Familiarity:
Experience at Cheltenham is crucial, as all of the last 12 winners had at least one previous run at the course.
Stamina and Endurance:
Winners typically have proven ability over long distances, with most having at least one win over 24 furlongs or further.
Hurdle Performance:
A solid track record over hurdles is common among winners, with most having multiple runs and at least two wins over hurdles.
Chase Mastery:
Winners usually have a wealth of chase experience, with many having multiple chase wins under their belt.
High Ratings: A high official rating is another common trait, with most winners rated 164 or higher.
Grade 1 Success:
Winning at least one Grade 1 race is a trend shared by all recent winners.
These trends not only reflect the qualities of past winners but also serve as a guide for those looking to predict future champions. As we approach the next Cheltenham Gold Cup, these patterns will be closely scrutinized by punters and enthusiasts alike.
2023: Galopin Des Champs
2022: A Plus Tard
2021: Minella Indo
2020: Al Boum Photo
2019: Al Boum Photo
2018: Native River
2017: Sizing John
2016: Don Cossack
2015: Coneygree
2014: Lord Windermere
These champions have etched their names in the history of this prestigious race, showcasing the best of National Hunt racing.
Cheltenham Festival Stats Albert Bartlett Friday 15th March
Cheltenham Festival Stats Albert Bartlett Friday 15th March
The Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle, a Grade 1 race at the Cheltenham Festival, is a true test of stamina and grit for novice hurdlers. Over the years, certain trends have emerged that can help identify potential winners. Here’s a summary of the most influential trends:
Age and Maturity:
- The majority of winners are aged 6 or 7, indicating that horses in this age range have the optimal combination of youth and experience.
Betting Odds:
- While only 1 of the last 12 winners was a favourite, 3 out of 12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting, suggesting that while favourites have a chance, value often lies further down the betting.
Recent Form:
- A win in their last run is a strong indicator, with 6 out of 12 winners having won their previous run before the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle. Additionally, 9 out of 12 winners had their last run within 54 days of the race.
Course Experience:
- Previous runs at Cheltenham are beneficial, with 3 out of 12 winners having at least one previous run at the course, and the same number having a previous win at Cheltenham.
Distance Form:
- Proven stamina over similar distances is important, with 11 out of 12 winners having at least one run over 23-25 furlongs, and the same number having at least one win over this distance.
Hurdle Form:
- A strong track record over hurdles is key, with 9 out of 12 winners having at least 3 runs over hurdles, and 11 out of 12 winners having at least one previous win over hurdles.
Rating:
- A high rating is indicative of a horse’s potential, with 10 out of 12 winners being rated 136 or higher.
Graded Wins:
- Success in graded races is common among winners, with 6 out of 12 winners having at least one win in a grade 1-3 race.
Season Form:
- Consistent performance throughout the season is important, with 10 out of 12 winners having at least 3 runs that season, and 11 out of 12 winners having at least one win that season.
Future Form:
- The race often serves as a stepping stone to further success, with 5 out of 12 winners winning on their next run after Cheltenham, and 2 placing on their next run.