Footpad Closes In On Ryanair Favouritism

Footpad is closing the gap on Min at the head of the antepost market for the Ryanair Chase after we cut last year’s Arkle winner into 7/2 from 4/1 on Tuesday.

The move puts Footpad within reach of 5/2 favourite Min with potential rivals Waiting Patiently and Top Notch ruled out, the latter set to be re-routed to the Stayers’ Hurdle.

Another Willie Mullins hopeful Benie Des Dieux looks set to go off a clear favourite in the Mares’ Hurdle if Apple’s Jade and Laurina take their places in the Champion Hurdle as expected.

The 8-year-old, who beat Apple’s Jade at last year’s Festival, was cut into odds on at 10/11 from 11/10 this week after sustained support for her to win the Mares’ race on the opening day.

With less than a week to go now before the off, we have also announced we will be giving customers money back as a free bet if their selection finishes 2nd or 3rd to the SP favourite at the Cheltenham Festival.

The offer will run for every race on every day and applies to bets placed both online and in shops. It will also be supported by multiple extra place races and enhanced prices on each of the four days of racing.

Among the best-backed favourites in the run up to the off include Apple’s Jade (15/8jf) in the Champion Hurdle, 2/5 shot Altior in the Champion Chase and Tiger Roll (EVS) in the Cross Country Chase.

*Prices correct at time of publication