BET SMARTER WITH LUXBET
Cheltenham 13:20 – PROACTIF NB
This Willie Mullins-trained JP McManus runner looks the standout in what’s often a tricky juvenile event. He’s unbeaten in two starts over hurdles, including a marked improvement on his Irish debut at Fairyhouse where he beat Macho Man (who followed him home) convincingly.
Mullins has dominated this race recently, and Proactif ticks every box: progressive, classy, and suited to the stiff Cheltenham test. Ruby Walsh is a big fan and calls him “good enough” for another big win in the silks.
Current quotes around 9/2 make him a rock-solid opener for the day.
Cheltenham 14:50 – DINOBLUE
The defending champion is rock-solid and primed for a repeat. She was excellent when landing this race last year and has had an ideal preparation this season – no hard races, just targeted fitness.
The trip (2m4½f) and fences suit her perfectly, and she’s the clear class act in the field. Both Ruby Walsh and other experts see “no disrespect” to the likes of Panic Attack; they simply can’t see beyond Dinoblue.
At around 2/1, she’s the banker of the day if you’re building a multiple – proven at the venue, in-form, and everything points to her defending her crown with authority.
Cheltenham 16:10 – GAELIC WARRIOR (NAP)
This is the big one, and Gaelic Warrior (Willie Mullins/Paul Townend) stands out as the one to beat in an open-looking renewal.
He’s a former Arkle winner at Cheltenham with proven Festival form, and he’s shown he stays the trip (won the Aintree Bowl last year and was just touched off in the King George).
The race setup should be ideal with plenty of pace on, any rain will be a bonus for him, and he’ll be dropped in to power home late. Mullins has made him his sole runner after Galopin Des Champs’ withdrawal, and multiple experts (including Ruby Walsh) back him strongly at around 7/2-4/1. Defending champ Inothewayurthinkin has questions to answer after a patchy season, while Jango Baie and The Jukebox Man are threats – but Gaelic Warrior’s engine and positioning give him the edge.
