Cheltenham Festival Blog - Members' memories Part 3

Could Gloria Victis have gone on to be a great like Kauto, if it wasn't for a fall in the Gold Cup in 2000? SRC member J.Spillerina thinks so. Here are some of his best and worst memories from the Cheltenham Festival over the years - and his tips for this year. 

Festival Memories

Biggest win:  Arcalis at 20-1 in the Supreme Novices in 2005.  He has only reached the frame once in four years since, so I got on him on right day and at the right price :) Tidal Bay in the Arkle a couple of years ago was alright too - must be something about those Wylie colours.

Best moment:  Quite a few, but I don't like being too nostalgic, so I'll go for a very recent one.  Seeing Inglis Drever win his third Stayers Hurdle, on the same day as Master Minded winning his first Champion Chase.  Both awesome.

Worst moment: Gloria Victis falling in the Gold Cup. The horse had unbelievable potential, as anyone who witnessed him destroy a field of top handicappers in the 2000 Racing Post chase will know.  He was giving subsequent Grade 1 winner Marlborough over a stone and still beat him senseless! I think he would've been as dominant as Kauto is now.

This year's Festival bets

Best bet: Captain Cee Bee (Arkle)

Next best: Pedlers Cross (B.B Nov.)

What are your best moments and memories of the Cheltenham Festival? And what are your top tips for the Festival this year? Post your comments below!