Cheltenham Gold Cup Day (Day 4) - Race Schedule, Where to watch and FAQs

Friday at Cheltenham—Gold Cup Day—is the undisputed pinnacle of the National Hunt season. After three days of high-drama, the "Cheltenham Roar" reaches its crescendo as the stayers take centre stage for the most prestigious prize in racing.

The Race Schedule

• 13:20 – The JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1): The premier championship for four-year-old juveniles.
• 14:00 – The County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap): A notoriously difficult 2m puzzle for punters.
• 14:40 – The Mrs Paddy Power Mares' Chase (Grade 2): The ultimate test for the leading female chasers.
• 15:20 – The Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1): A three-mile "slog" often won by a future star stayer.
• 16:00 – The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (Grade 1): The blue riband event of the week.
• 16:40 – The St. James's Place Hunters' Chase: Known as the "Amateur Gold Cup," run over the same course and distance as the feature.
• 17:20 – The Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle: The traditional "getting out stakes" that closes the Festival.

Where to Watch

• ITV1 / ITVX: Live coverage begins at 12:45 pm and covers the first six races of the day.
• Racing TV: The only place to watch all seven races live, including the Martin Pipe finale.
• Bookmaker Apps: Most major firms (Sky Bet, Paddy Power, Betfair) offer a "Watch Live" service if you have a funded account or have placed a small bet on the race.

Day 4 FAQs

• What time do gates open? Gates open at 10:30 am. Arrive early to secure a spot near the parade ring for the Gold Cup build-up.
• Is it cashless? Yes, the racecourse operates on a cashless basis for food and drink, though on-course bookmakers still accept cash.
• Is there a dress code? There is no official dress code, but "Festival Friday" typically sees a sea of tweed and smart-casual attire. Dress for the weather!

 

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