JP McManus’s horse, Fact To File, has been withdrawn from the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival due to unsuitable ground conditions. This decision has significant implications for the race, as Fact To File was the odds-on favourite and had previously excelled in the same event, winning the race last year by nine lengths.

The ground at Cheltenham was officially described as good, good to soft in places. However, trainer Willie Mullins expressed frustration over the conditions, stating, “These horses are too hard to find, too hard to get. In jump racing we want to have soft in the description of the ground.” He noted that the course had not been adequately watered as promised, leading to the decision to withdraw.

Mullins further elaborated on the situation, saying, “I walked it, coming across the track… I said, ‘wow, this ground is going to be too good for her,’ sure enough, she wasn’t able to act on it.” This sentiment was echoed by JP McManus, who remarked, “I found it, too much for him, I was a bit, part of the course, altogether, not to my liking.”

The Ryanair Chase was scheduled to take place at 4:00pm GMT, covering a distance of two miles and four and a half furlongs. Following Fact To File’s withdrawal, Heart Wood emerged victorious in the race.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential future races for Fact To File, as the team evaluates the horse’s readiness based on ground conditions. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges trainers and owners face in ensuring optimal racing conditions for their horses.

The post Jp mcmanus appeared first on newscasino.

“We waited all day for rain that was half-promised, so we made the decision not to run,” stated trainer Willie Mullins regarding the unexpected withdrawal of Fact To File from the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

Fact To File, who won the Ryanair Chase in 2025 by an impressive nine lengths, was the evens favorite to repeat that success this year. However, the ground conditions, described as Good to Soft, prompted Mullins to reconsider the horse’s participation.

Owner JP McManus expressed his trust in Mullins’s judgment, saying, “I left it to Willy, but I can overrule him.” This reflects the close working relationship between the trainer and owner, especially in high-stakes situations like the Cheltenham Festival.

Following the withdrawal, Heart Wood went on to win the Ryanair Chase, further highlighting the competitive nature of the event. The race is a Grade 1 competition for horses aged five years and older, making it a prestigious part of the festival.

During the first two days of the 2026 Festival, two horses tragically died, raising concerns about the safety and conditions of the racing environment. Mullins noted, “The ground is not good enough. If the ground is going to be like this we’re not going to bring them,” emphasizing the importance of suitable conditions for the horses’ welfare.

Fact To File was the only horse withdrawn by Mullins on that day, which adds to the significance of the decision. The trainer has a remarkable record at the Cheltenham Festival, having trained 118 winners, making him the most successful trainer in its history.

As the festival continues, the focus will now shift to the remaining competitors and their performances on the challenging ground. The decision to withdraw Fact To File underscores the complexities trainers face when balancing the health of their horses with the demands of competition.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments or the potential return of Fact To File in future races.

The post Fact To File Withdrawn from Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham Festival appeared first on newscasino.

Cheltenham Day 3, taking place on March 11, 2026, is set to feature several high-stakes races, including the prestigious Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase. With a maximum runner field of 22, the competition is expected to be fierce, showcasing some of the best talent in horse racing.

Key Contenders

Among the horses to watch, The Bluesman, trained by Olly Murphy and ridden by Sean Bowen, stands out as a promising competitor. Carl Evans noted, “The Bluesman is a handsome chap, and his chasing career is coming along nicely.” Another notable entry is Wodhooh, trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy. Kim Bailey commented, “With Lossiemouth going for the Champion Hurdle, this race looks set up for Wodhooh. She’s tough, consistent and a winning machine.” This positions Wodhooh as a strong favorite in the Stayers’ Hurdle.

Recent Performances

The Stayers’ Hurdle will feature 11 runners, with Teahupoo and Bob Olinger as the past two winners, adding historical significance to the race. Teahupoo notably beat Bob Olinger by 7 lengths in the Grade One Christmas Hurdle, showcasing his capabilities on this stage. Ma Shantou, trained by Emma Lavelle and ridden by Harry Cobden, is also a contender, with Tom Peacock stating, “There are a lot of old hands who might be past their best in this race but Ma Shantou has a younger set of legs.” This highlights the dynamic nature of the competition.

Other Noteworthy Horses

In addition to the favorites, Kabral Du Mathan, trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Harry Skelton, and Banbridge, trained by Joseph O’Brien and ridden by Sean Bowen, are also expected to make an impact. Banbridge was unplaced in this race two years ago but showed his wellbeing when narrowly beaten by The Jukebox Man at Kempton on Boxing Day, according to Carl Evans. This suggests that Banbridge may be poised for a better performance this year.

Expectations for the Day

As the day unfolds, observers will be keen to see how the young, progressive stayers perform, with three horses highlighted in this category. Fact To File, who was untouchable in the previous year’s race, is another horse to keep an eye on. Additionally, Gericault Roque, trained by David Pipe and boasting a racing mark of 129, could surprise many in the field.

Final Thoughts

With the excitement building for Cheltenham Day 3, the anticipation surrounding the Stayers’ Hurdle and Ryanair Chase is palpable. As the horses prepare to race, details remain unconfirmed regarding the final line-up and any last-minute changes. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see how the day unfolds and which horses rise to the occasion.

The post Cheltenham day 3 tips appeared first on newscasino.