Memorable Moments

The sun shone down on an crowd of over 57,000 as the 2026 Festival got underway with the famous Cheltenham roar. An afternoon of high-class performances saw Britain edge ahead 4-3 in the Prestbury Cup, setting up a fascinating week. Here’s how Champion Day unfolded...

CHELTENHAM BIDS FAREWELL TO CONSTITUTION HILL

Crowds lined the Parade Ring ahead of racing as Constitution Hill paraded in front of fans on his final visit to Cheltenham. The Nicky Henderson-trained nine-year-old is embarking on a career on the Flat following eight Grade 1 wins, including the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Unibet Champion Hurdle at the Festival.

Nicky Henderson said: “It’s lovely that people have come to say hello to him, or goodbye”

“I’m very grateful to Cheltenham for letting him come, it was a nice way to thank the crowds that have supported him and all his friends. It’s lovely.”

Constitution Hill’s nine-and-a-half length debut win at Southwell confirmed plans to leave behind his hurdling career, with his plans for his next run to be revealed soon.

Henderson added: “We’ll try to sort out where we’ll go before the end of the week anyway, I’ve got the Flat programme book in a drawer for once we get through this week!”

LOSSIEMOUTH EXTENDS HER CHELTENHAM LOVE AFFAIR

Lossiemouth (7-5 Fav) stormed up the Cheltenham hill, to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle - her fourth consecutive Cheltenham Festival success.

She left rivals Brighterdaysahead (7-2) and The New Lion (3-1) trailing in her wake to cement her place as one of the leading mares of her generation.

Speaking to ITV winning trainer Willie Mullins said: "She's a star mare, to come back four years in a row let alone win, that is incredible. When I put her cheek pieces on her I thought, wow, that's the old Lossiemouth."

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A BIRTHDAY DOUBLE FOR JP MCMANUS

JP McManus had a 75th birthday to remember as his famous green and gold silks were carried to victory twice on the opening day of the Festival at odds of 208-1.

Johnnywho (18-1) claimed victory in The Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase, shortly after 10-1 chance Saratoga had won The McCoy Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle.

JP McManus said: “It’s unbelievable to have a double here, and with Richie riding him too. He rode a winner of this same race for me a few years ago on Alfie Sherin (2012). It’s great to have him riding winners at the Festival again.”

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