The Cheltenham festival took place between the 10th and 14th of March was as big as it was in previous years, even though things seemed a bit gloomy before the day due to the coronavirus that has now become a global epidemic.
With England recording 7 deaths before the start of the festival, there were speculations it would not be as big as it was in previous years.
But on the opening day, the 10th of March, the turnout was massive. Young and old among various works of life converged as usual to Gloucestershire to enjoy one of the finest horse racing events worldwide.
The first day of the race was the Champion Hurdle. The race had no favourite as the previous winner, Espoir D’Allen had passed away the previous year. But it was no surprise as Epatante, ridden by Barry Geraghty, outpaced other horses to win the title.
It took the lead at the last Hurdle and was able to beat Sharjah, which was previously in the lead. The victory would make it the eighth one for trainer Nicky Henderson and the fourth one for Geraghty.
In the Cross Country Chase, Easyland was able to finish well ahead of Tiger Roll, which was seeking to win the title for the third year running. The absence of Altior in the Champion Chase gave rise to a new winner as Politologue was the winner of the race.
The horse, trained by Paul Nicholls was able to finish the race ahead of favourite Defi Du Seuil. This would be Politologue’s first victory at the festival in four years.
Al Baum Photo earned a back to back victory after winning the Gold Cup, defeating favourites like Lost In Translation and Santini.
Jockey of the horse, Paul Townend, who recently took over from Ruby Walsh, did not disappoint as he was recognised as the jockey of the festival, beating Barry Geraghty for the title.
Following the end of the festival, the British Horse Racing Agency has announced that all races till the end of March would be held indoors if they are not cancelled. Races in Taunton and Wetherby, which would hold on Tuesday, would be the first to hold indoors.
Written by: Leon Osamor
