‘The town can’t wait’: Cheltenham raring to go as festival returns

On the sort of crisp, bright day that Cheltenham festival regulars love, artists Emily Johnson and Andy Owen-Smith were to be found in a gallery in the Montpellier area of the Regency town, putting the final touches to an exhibition celebrating the power of the horse and the hustle and bustle of race day.

“There’s real sense of excitement in Cheltenham,” said Johnson. “I’ve been dropping off flyers in the hotels and they are all packed.” Owen-Smith agreed: “I think there’s pent-up demand for the festival; the town can’t wait for it.”

Last year’s festival took place behind closed doors because of Covid. In 2020 it was staged under a cloud as the Covid crisis loomed and it has come to be regarded by many as a super-spreader event.

This March, racegoers and townsfolk are embracing the prospect of four days of sport – and partying – with particular fervour.

Andre Klein, the racecourse’s community engagement manager, said tickets had been snapped up faster than ever before. “Gold Cup day [Friday] was sold out in mid January and Thursday sold out shortly after that,” he said.

Klein has been touring the Gold Cup around workplaces, schools and venues in the town. “There’s a real sense of anticipation. That first roar on Tuesday will be very special.”

The festival is an annual riot of colour and life that for many signals the start of spring. Royals and aristocrats rub shoulders with reality TV stars, footballers, farmers and excited gaggles of fun-seekers.

Warwick 

1.35 Pilsdon Pen 2.12 Lac De Constance2.45 Galice Macalo3.20 Guillemot (nap)3.55 Boughtbeforelunch4.30 Hyland5.05 Bold Reaction 

Bangor-On-Dee

2.02 Discko Des Plages2.38 Wouldubewell (nb)3.13 Harbour Lake3.48 Kayfast Warrior 4.23 Latitude 4.58 Grey Skies

For some, the