Evergreen Henderson prepares typically strong string
As the most successful British trainer in Cheltenham Festival history, Nicky Henderson once again provided invaluable insight into his team’s prospects. The Master of Seven Barrows has a typically strong team, with Old Park Star (Supreme Novices’ Hurdle), Lulamba (Arkle Novices’ Chase) and Jango Baie (Gold Cup) leading his charge.
The veteran handler also has several other live chances, including Jeriko Du Reponet (Kim Muir), Impose Toi (Stayers’ Hurdle) and Manlaga (Fred Winter). Henderson also nominated last year’s Pertemps Final winner, Doddiethegreat, as his dark horse for the Stayers’ Hurdle.
Skelton seeking more Festival glory with his strongest-ever team
The current runaway leader of the Jumps Trainers’ Championship, Dan Skelton, provided invaluable first-hand insight into what could be a huge week for his Warwickshire-based operation. Skelton discussed the leading chances from his yard, spearheaded by last year’s Turners Novices’ Hurdle winner, The New Lion, who bids for Champion Hurdle glory on day one.
The list of live chances showcases the firepower at Skelton’s disposal, with Mydaddypaddy (Supreme Novices’ Hurdle), L’Eau Du Sud (Champion Chase), Kabral Du Mathan (Stayers’ Hurdle), Panic Attack (Mares’ Chase), Maestro Conti (Triumph Hurdle) and Grey Dawning (Gold Cup) all boasting strong credentials.
The stable is also renowned for its strength in depth in the handicaps, and 2026 is no different, with A Pai De Nom (Martin Pipe), Madara (Festival Plate), Be Aware (Grand Annual) and Supremely West (Pertemps) all featuring prominently in the ante-post markets.
Expert analysis and key trends
Complementing the trainers’ perspectives, Jane Mangan provided insightful analysis on the powerful Irish challenge, while Paul Ferguson, author of the Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide, highlighted key trends and other angles for punters to consider.
Watch the full recording
The full recording of the Cheltenham Festival Preview is now available to watch online. The video captures the entire evening, offering over 90 minutes of expert insight and Festival discussion from a star-studded panel.
Weatherbys Racing Bank is proud to host exclusive events that bring our clients closer to the sport, combining expert knowledge with engaging conversation in the build-up to one of racing’s biggest weeks.