Cheltenham Festival 2023 - what can we expect?
Attendance levels have been capped this year
Last updated 13th Mar 2023
Cheltenham Festival gets underway tomorrow, with organisers imposing an attendance cap for the first time. They say they've imposed it, after feedback from previous years.
Prestbury Park can accommodate just under 74,000 people, however this year only 68,500 punters will be allowed in, to 'enhance the race-going experience'. So what is going to be happening this week?
DAY ONE - Champion Day, Tuesday 14 March
The first day kicks off in style with the big Champions Hurdle Challenge race at 3.30pm. There will also be hospitality and music throughout the day from Ryam Corbett, Hipcats and The Lucky 15's.
DAY TWO - Ladies Day, Wednesday 15 March
While Day One is all about setting the scene for four days of racing, Day Two delivers sensational sport. Wednesday’s Grade One Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase offers a speed test like no other.
DAY THREE - Champion Day, Thursday 16 March
The Brits take on the Irish across the entirety of the festival. Day Three features the Ryanair Chase and Paddy Power Stayer’s Hurdle, where endurance and stamina reign. It feels as if those on St Patrick's Thursday are given an extra loud cheer.
DAY FOUR - Gold Cup Day, Friday 17 March
The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup headlines Day Four of the festival. The Gold Cup, the most iconic trophy in horse racing, has ruled jump-racing since 1924.