The National Hunt season, commonly known as jumps racing, is a major highlight of British horse racing, featuring a thrilling mix of steeplechases and hurdles. For fans and punters alike, the excitement and unpredictability of these events make them prime opportunities to bet on horse racing.
Britain boasts some of the most prestigious and iconic jumps races in the world, each carrying its own history, challenges, and glory. Here’s a look at the biggest jumps races that define the British racing calendar.
1. The Cheltenham Gold Cup
Arguably the most coveted prize in British jumps racing, the Cheltenham Gold Cup is the pinnacle of the National Hunt season. Run over 3 miles and 2½ furlongs with 22 fences to be jumped, this Grade 1 chase is the feature race of the Cheltenham Festival, held every March.
It attracts the finest staying chasers, with past winners such as Arkle, Best Mate, and Kauto Star becoming legends of the sport. For punters, the Gold Cup often provides an intense experience, as the competition is fierce and the outcome is often unpredictable.
2. The Grand National
The Grand National is perhaps the most famous horse race in the world, known for its gruelling test of stamina and jumping ability. Run at Aintree Racecourse over 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, the race features 30 formidable fences, including notorious obstacles such as Becher’s Brook and The Chair.
With a field of up to 34 runners, betting on the Grand National is a national pastime, attracting casual and seasoned punters alike. Its unpredictability makes it a challenging but exciting race to wager on, and winners often defy the odds.
3. The Champion Hurdle
As the premier hurdle race in Britain, the Champion Hurdle takes place on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival. Run over 2 miles with eight hurdles to clear, this Grade 1 race tests speed, agility, and jumping precision.
It’s a key target for the best two-mile hurdlers, with iconic winners like Istabraq and Buveur d’Air having etched their names in the sport’s history. Constitution Hill is the current king of this division and will be out to regain his title this season.
4. The King George VI Chase
Held at Kempton Park on Boxing Day, the King George VI Chase is one of the most prestigious mid-season races in the jumps calendar. Run over 3 miles with 18 fences, this Grade 1 race serves as a key stepping stone for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and past winners such as Desert Orchid and Kauto Star have gone on to achieve greatness.
The King George often draws the best-staying chasers, making it a must-watch race for both enthusiasts and those looking to place well-considered bets.
5. The Queen Mother Champion Chase
Another standout race at the Cheltenham Festival, the Queen Mother Champion Chase is the premier two-mile chase in Britain. It is renowned for its speed, with top-class horses and jockeys needing to negotiate 13 fences at a relentless pace.
Past winners like Sprinter Sacre and Altior have become household names, and the race regularly delivers thrilling finishes. Bettors often look for horses with a strong blend of speed and jumping prowess when considering their wagers on this race.
6. The Stayers’ Hurdle
The Stayers’ Hurdle is the ultimate test of stamina for hurdlers, run over 3 miles at the Cheltenham Festival. This Grade 1 race has produced some memorable moments, with horses like Big Buck’s dominating the event with multiple wins.
Given the endurance required to win, bettors tend to focus on horses with proven stamina and staying power when looking at this race.
