Cheltenham Festival Thursday Tips |
Jake Price

Thursday’s Cheltenham Festival tips begin with Sixandahalf, who is my best bet of the week in the Mares Novice, as she looks a class above her rivals for Gavin Cromwell. Despite limited hurdle experience, she was an impressive bumper winner at Punchestown and has strong flat form, including a Newmarket handicap win and a third in the Irish Cesarewitch, earning a rating of 94.

Her hurdles debut at Fairyhouse in January was dominant, winning by 12 lengths with flawless jumping. If she continues her progression, she will be hard to beat, especially with her valuable race experience which key rivals like Maughreen lack.

Sa Majeste has strong claims in the Kim Muir, especially with Patrick Mullins getting the ride in this Amateur rider's race. Last year, he was highly touted for the Coral Cup but disappointed. However, he has progressed well over fences this season. After a solid chase debut behind Search For Glory, he impressed over 3m at Tipperary and later ran in the Grade 1 Faugheen Novice Chase over an unsuitable trip.

Connections wisely targeted the Kim Muir, securing qualification at Fairyhouse. Despite winning he was only raised 3lbs, leaving him well-handicapped. The step up to 3m2f could unlock further improvement.

Irish raider Jordans has a strong chance in the Plate despite lacking Cheltenham experience. A seasoned handicapper from France, he won a Grade 3 Novice Chase at Punchestown in October, beating recent winner Monbeg Park. Though he unseated early in the Craddockstown Novice Chase, he impressed over Christmas, finishing second in the Grade 1 Faugheen Novice Hurdle.

With fewer novice chasers in the Plate this year, he could be ahead of his mark (148). If ridden prominently he has a great chance, especially on the drying ground, having been kept fresh for the Festival by Joseph O’Brien.

*Information correct at time of writing. 18+ only. GambleAware.