Day Three of the Cheltenham Festival brings a mix of championship showdowns and competitive handicaps.
Ladbrokes' racing expert breaks down each race with concise analysis, highlighting strong favourites, shrewd each-way plays and a lively outsider or two.
Cheltenham Festival 2025 day three tips
13:20 – Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2)
Sixandahalf (3/1) was a talented Flat stayer and bolted up on her hurdles debut at Fairyhouse, so she rightly commands a spot at the top of the market for the Mares' Novices' Hurdle.
However, Willie Mullins fields a strong team and we’re looking to Aurora Vega (15/2) as an each-way value pick. This daughter of Festival legend Quevega has improved with each run and looks overpriced for a big effort.
Stablemate Maughreen (8/1) is another well-touted contender, but Aurora Vega’s proven stamina could give her the edge up the Cheltenham hill.
14:00 – Jack Richards Novices’ Handicap Chase (Grade 2)
This novices’ handicap chase is notoriously wide open – the betting has several co-favourites.
Asian Master (7/1) gets a tentative nod for Willie Mullins, who could be poised for a big day. The Irish raider won decisively at Naas and a repeat of that form makes him a strong contender for the Novices' Handicap Chase.
14:40 – Pertemps Final (Handicap Hurdle)
A typically competitive Pertemps Final sees French import Jeriko Du Reponet (13/2) heading the market after an impressive qualifying run . We’re siding with Win Some Lose Some (7/1), an Irish hurdler who won a hot Leopardstown qualifier and is progressive for shrewd connections .
He handles good ground well and might have more to offer despite a higher mark. The UK challenge is led by Will The Wise (8/1), while Feet Of A Dancer (9/1) appeals at bigger odds – this consistent mare has been quietly fancied and could sneak into the places if running to her best.
15:20 – Ryanair Chase (Grade 1)
All eyes are on the novice star Fact To File (5/4) in the Ryanair. Willie Mullins’ 7-year-old has seamlessly transitioned to fences and his Grade 1 class is evident, making him a worthy favourite.
Last year’s winner Protektorat (6/1) appears “underestimated in the market” and could provide some value – Dan Skelton’s charge loves Cheltenham and has been peaking at the right time.
France adds intrigue with Il Est Francais (10/3), who brings top form from across the Channel. Fact To File sets a high standard, but if he falters, Protektorat’s proven course form may well come to the fore.
16:00 – Stayers’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
Reigning champion Teahupoo (6/4) is the one to beat after romping to victory in last year’s Stayers’ Hurdle as the favourite . Gordon Elliott’s star stayer has been campaigned expertly and looks poised to defend his crown.
Chief among the challengers is Home By The Lee (13/2), who ran a fine race in this event before and has maintained solid form this season. The Wallpark (6/1) is an intriguing improver stepping up in class, and he’ll attract each-way support. Ultimately, if Teahupoo reproduces his best form, the others are likely playing for minor honours.
16:40 – Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)
Jagwar (6/1) switches to this 2m4f handicap and brings strong credentials – the Trials Day winner is joint-favourite after heading the markets at around 6/1 for the Handicap Chase.
He’ll be popular with punters and should be in the thick of the finish if his prep has gone well. Last year’s hero Shakem Up’Arry (16/1) has been quiet this season, but lightning could strike twice: trainer Ben Pauling reports his gelding is ready to make a bold bid to repeat the 2024 triumph.
Among the longer shots, Seddon (20/1) is a previous Festival winner who has been laid out for this – his savvy connections will have him primed to outrun those generous odds.
17:20 – Kim Muir Challenge Cup (Handicap Chase)
The finale for amateur riders sees Johnnywho (11/2) as a well-backed favourite for the Challenge Cup.
Carrying J.P. McManus’s famous colours, this novice has top rider Derek O’Connor in the saddle – the same jockey-owner combo that won this race last year. Johnnywho’s form is strong and the step up to this marathon trip could unlock further improvement. Stamina will be key, which brings Midnight Our Fred (8/1) into play as a reliable stayer who rarely runs a bad race.
Another to note is Sa Majeste (8/1), arriving off two wins, though he must prove he stays this far. In a race that often springs a surprise, Johnnywho’s class and pilot might just see him justify favoritism to close out Day Three.
