The first race of Day 2 at the Cheltenham festival features some big name jockeys as today’s crowds will have to deal with torrid weather conditions whilst cheering on their favourite horse.
Sir Gerhard, to be ridden by Paul Townend, enters this race as favourite due to some great form, ahead of Rachael Blackmore who will be riding Journey With Me.
Sir Gerhard (P Townend) recent form
February 6th 2022 – 1st, Leopardstown, Novice Grade I Hurdle, 2m
December 26th 2021 – 1st, Leopardstown, Maiden Hurdle, 2m
Fan favourite Rachael Blackmore will hope that her win with Honeysuckle yesterday will give her a confidence boost with Journey With Me, who like Sir Gerhard hasn’t ridden since February.
Journey With Me (R Blackmore) recent form
February 12th 2022 – 1st, Naas, Novice Hurdle, 2m 3f
December 29th 2021 – 1st, Leopardstown, Maiden Hurdle, 2m 4f
Nico De Boinville, who comes into today having won yesterday’s Mare’s Hurdle riding the aptly named Marie’s Rock is hoping to ruffle some feathers and upset Sir Gerhard and Townend with I Am Maximus.
I Am Maximus (N de Boinville) recent form
January 1st 2022 – 1st, Cheltenham, Class I Novice Listed Hurdle, 2m 4f
December 15th 2021 – 1st, Newbury, Class 4 Maiden Hurdle, 2m
Odds (Bet365)
Sir Gerhard – 8/11
Journey With Me – 5/1
I Am Maximus – 16/1
We’ll be back with a 2:10 race preview following the conclusion of the 1:30 race which we all hope will live up to its expectations.
