The Cheltenham Festival has witnessed numerous iconic moments and remarkable victories throughout its storied history.
This year’s version is set to take place at the Cheltenham Racecourse in Cheltenham, UK, from 11-14 March, 2025. With Cheltenham odds set, bettors are lining up with their ‘win, place, and show’ bets.
Legendary Cheltenham Festival Gold Cup Wins
Dawn Run’s Historic Double (1986)
Dawn Run etched her name in Cheltenham folklore by becoming the first and only horse to win both the Champion Hurdle and the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Her 1986 Gold Cup victory sparked unprecedented celebrations, with spectators spilling onto the track in jubilation.
Best Mate’s Hat-Trick (2002-2004)
Best Mate achieved a remarkable feat by winning three consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cups from 2002 to 2004. Trained by Henrietta Knight and ridden by Jim Culloty, Best Mate’s trio of victories matched the record of the great Arkle.
Kauto Star’s Redemption (2009)
Kauto Star’s 2009 Gold Cup win was particularly memorable as he became the first horse to regain the Gold Cup after losing it the previous year. His victory over stablemate Denman, nicknamed “The Tank,” was a dominant performance that cemented his status as one of the greatest chasers of the modern era.
Remarkable Championship Races
Istabraq’s Champion Hurdle Dominance (1998-2000)
Istabraq, trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Charlie Swan, won the Champion Hurdle three consecutive times from 1998 to 2000. This impressive streak established Istabraq as one of the greatest hurdlers in Cheltenham history.
Sprinter Sacre’s Dominant Champion Chase (2013)
In 2013, Sprinter Sacre delivered one of the most dominant performances in Cheltenham Festival history, winning the Queen Mother Champion Chase by an astounding 19 lengths. This victory showcased Sprinter Sacre at the peak of his powers.
Historic Upsets
Norton’s Coin’s Gold Cup Shock (1990)
Norton’s Coin pulled off the biggest upset in Cheltenham Gold Cup history, winning at odds of 100/1. Trained by Sirrell Griffiths, who had only two other horses in his stable, Norton’s Coin defeated the reigning champion and favorite Desert Orchid in a stunning turn of events.
Kirriemuir’s Champion Hurdle Surprise (1965)
Kirriemuir entered the 1965 Champion Hurdle as a 50/1 outsider, the longest Cheltenham odds ever in the race’s history. Despite facing stiff competition from fan favorites, Kirriemuir shocked the racing world with an unexpected victory that still resonates 58 years later.
These extraordinary wins have contributed to the rich tapestry of Cheltenham Festival history, showcasing the drama, skill, and unpredictability that make the event so captivating for racing enthusiasts worldwide.
