As the Cheltenham Festival approaches, bookmakers prepare for a significant challenge on Thursday. This day is expected to see a surge of bets from punters hoping for a treble involving three top contenders: Fact To File, Wodhooh, and Bambino Fever.
Bambino Fever’s Impact on Bookmakers
The excitement centers around Bambino Fever, who could set the stage for a lucrative day for bettors. Her performance in the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle will be crucial. Should she win, she would kick off a highly anticipated accumulator alongside Fact To File in the Ryanair Chase and Wodhooh in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle.
Key Details About the Treble
- Races Involved: Ryanair Chase, Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle
- Predicted Odds: Approximately 5-1 for the treble
- Bookmaker Comments: Coral’s David Stevens noted significant interest in this treble since last week.
Paddy Power’s Paul Binfield expressed concern about the potential liabilities associated with these favorites. He emphasized that this scenario resembles previous years’ chaos during festival Tuesdays, albeit this time it’s on a Thursday.
Potential Consequences for the Bookmakers
If all three favorites secure victories, it could result in substantial losses for the bookmakers. Some expect costs running into the seven figures, reminiscent of past events such as Annie Power’s fall in 2015, which saved bookmakers approximately £50 million.
The Performers Behind the Favorites
- Bambino Fever: Last year’s Champion Bumper winner, returning with recent strong performances.
- Fact To File: Gaining attention as a leading contender in the Ryanair Chase.
- Wodhooh: Now considered the favorite for the Mares’ Hurdle after other contenders shifted their focus.
William Hill’s Lee Phelps highlighted that Bambino Fever is one of their worst hopes regarding ante-post results. With this dynamic in play, all eyes will be on her performance, as it could dictate the day’s outcomes for both bettors and bookmakers alike.
Trainer Insights and Expectations
Several trainers provided insights about their contenders ahead of the festival. For instance, Decaln Queally mentioned that Carrigmoornaspruce, fresh from a Christmas Grade 1 run, is expected to improve. Additionally, David Pipe shared optimism for Kingston Queen, who is in top form and ready for the track.
As race day approaches, anticipation builds around Bambino Fever and her potential to secure a historic treble, making it a day to remember for both punters and bookmakers at Cheltenham.
