The Champion Hurdle is one of the most prestigious events in National Hunt racing and serves as the highlight of Day 1 at the Cheltenham Festival.
Known for its competitive field, the race crowns the best two-mile hurdler of the season. Run on the Old Course at Cheltenham, the Champion Hurdle tests the speed, agility, and jumping precision of the competitors over a distance of 2 miles and ½ furlong (2m 87y).
With eight hurdles to navigate and a challenging uphill finish, the race demands a perfect combination of stamina and tactical brilliance.
The Champion Hurdle is a Grade 1 contest open to horses aged four years and older. It has long been a platform for greatness, with legends such as Istabraq, Hurricane Fly, and Buveur D’Air cementing their names in history through this race.
2024 Champion Hurdle Winner
The 2024 Champion Hurdle saw a thrilling finish. The horse entered the race as a strong favourite after a stellar season, including a decisive win in the Irish Champion Hurdle.
Latest Odds for the 2025 Champion Hurdle
As anticipation builds for the 2025 Champion Hurdle, the betting markets are heating up. Constitution Hill is priced at 6/4 and remains the standout favourite, boasting an unbeaten record and an aura of invincibility. Vauban and State Man follow closely at 4/1 and 5/1, respectively, and are expected to provide strong challenges after their impressive performances in the 2024 season. Honeysuckle’s Legacy is priced at 8/1, while Epatante sits at 10/1 as an outside contender.
Keep an eye on market movements as trial races and ground conditions could influence the odds.
Tips for the 2025 Champion Hurdle
Constitution Hill’s form makes it the horse to beat, so closely watching its lead-up performances will be essential. Horses with proven success at Cheltenham often have an edge due to the unique demands of the course. Ground conditions will play a significant role, so monitoring the weather forecast and assessing how each contender handles various conditions is crucial.
The Champion Hurdle rewards horses with tactical speed and the ability to quicken off a steady pace, so runners with these traits are likely to excel.
Time of the 2025 Champion Hurdle
The Champion Hurdle is scheduled to take place at 3:30 PM GMT on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. As the feature race of Day 1, it promises to deliver one of the most exciting moments of the festival.
Race Distance and Features
The Champion Hurdle covers a distance of 2 miles and ½ furlong on the Old Course at Cheltenham. With eight hurdles to clear, the race combines technical skill with the need for a powerful finish up the Cheltenham hill. Its fast pace and high stakes ensure a thrilling spectacle for racing fans.
Stay tuned for updates, expert insights, and comprehensive coverage as the countdown to the 2025 Champion Hurdle continues.