Allow me to redirect your attention from the humdrum of daily life in Ireland, where rain is plentiful and progress is a challenge, to a four-day solace we experience during Cheltenham week. With times changing, the most significant week in National Hunt Racing may have dimmed slightly, but it still outshines our habitual struggle. A line from Mary Harney rightly fits here, which suggests that even a disappointing day in authority surpasses the best day of dissent. No matter the fortune these races bring you until Friday, bear in mind that once the event concludes, a long wait of 361 days precedes the commencement of another. So, make the most of it.
I’m Malachy Clerkin, your guide till last participant crosses the line in the Martin Pipe this Friday. I’ll provide daily updates as well as a detailed summary of the event. I’ll monitor the player list and withdrawals, which could potentially be in abundance due to recent heavy rainfalls. More importantly, I aim to cover all 28 races live, featuring responses from victorious and defeated contenders.
The first sequence kicks off at 1.30 with Supreme Novices Hurdle being the inaugural race as is tradition.
Wishing everyone who recognises the joy of Cheltenham, a delightful one.
Here are some intriguing reads to last the coming hours:
– Our racing correspondent, Brian O’Connor, brings a sneak peek of the Champion Hurdle.
– A conversation with Danny Mullins by Brian reveals fascinating insights about his role in the Willie Mullins crew.
– As the annual Cheltenham fervour sparks off, Irish fans exude optimism, discloses Frank McNally.