Cheltenham Implements Changes to Enhance the Festival Experience.

Posted 28 days ago

The Cheltenham Festival organizers have unveiled changes designed to enhance both the competition and the experience for racegoers.

To boost interest and increase field sizes, Cheltenham Festival organizers will change the conditions for five races starting next year.

Notably, the Turners Novices' Chase will be downgraded from a Grade One race to a handicap chase.

Additionally, the National Hunt Chase for amateur jockeys will transition to a handicap race, allowing professional riders to participate from the 2025 event in March.

For racegoers, improvements include a new park-and-ride system, extra coaches, and designated hardstanding areas for parking. These changes come in response to complaints about traffic and vehicles getting stuck in mud during this year’s festival.

Cheltenham will also introduce discounts on select tickets, expand food and drink offerings, and provide new accommodation deals after receiving feedback about declining attendance. However, the price of a pint of Guinness will rise by 30p to £7.80.

“It’s vital to evolve and improve to ensure everyone who joins us throughout the week has the best experience possible,” said racecourse managing director Ian Renton.