00:00The Cheltenham Festival, the most prestigious event in jump racing, returns from the 11th
00:07to the 14th of March, marking the grand opening of the social season.
00:12Over 260,000 people will gather for four days of top class racing, live music, entertainment
00:19and incredible food and drink.
00:22The festival is where champions return to defend their crowns, rising stars aim to make
00:26headlines and crowds experience drama, emotion and unforgettable sporting moments.
00:34Beyond the racing, there is plenty to enjoy. Cheltenham's hospitality is world renowned,
00:39serving over 45,000 meals with the help of a 3,500 strong catering team.
00:46Locally sourced produce takes pride of place, with 70% of fruit and veg from the Cotswolds
00:53and all cheese produced within 50 miles.
00:56Across the week, racegoers will consume 9,000 gallons of tea and coffee, nine tonnes of
01:02potatoes and five tonnes of salmon.
01:05For a high-end experience, Clare Smith's core-on-course team returns, offering a Michelin star six-course
01:12tasting menu, paired with wines the ultimate in race day luxury.
01:18Looking at the horses to watch, there are a multitude of contenders this year.
01:23The Walpark in the Strayers' Hurdle impresses with his strong finish, while Caldwell Potter
01:29in the novices' handicapped chase looks great value.
01:33Be Aware has been carefully aimed at the Coral Cup, and Dino Blue in the mares' chase stands
01:40out in her field.
01:42Meanwhile, some household names return.
01:46Ballyburn in the Brown Advisory is tipped as one of the best bets of the week.
01:52All this and much more a huge week of racing ahead.
01:56Let's hope for some luck.
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