Can you maximize your success during a week of Cheltenham Festival betting?

The four-day-long Festival features showpiece several Grade One National Hunt races from the famous Cheltenham Gold Cup to the Stayers' Hurdle.

Supporters flock in their thousands to witness the action first-hand, while millions more tune in on TV, radio or online. As with any sporting event, there’s absolutely no guarantee of betting success, whatever your strategy or whatever the odds, but keen punters are considered in their approach to the Festival to help boost their chances of winning.

Research
One of the best ways to boost your success on the week in question is to make sure you do your research. Punters will frequently check out the 2020 Cheltenham Festival odds & betting, as form can change and odds can shrink and fluctuate, often at a moment’s notice.

If you’re only just catching up with what’s been happening in the world of racing then don’t fear, it isn’t too late to get yourself up to speed with the runners and riders, to study the form guide and get the inside scoop on where the smart money is.

Among this year’s big guns are Altior, Chacun Pour Soi and Defi Du Seuil, though there’s often better value to be had betting on an outsider.

Of course, some people enjoy betting for fun with a small stake and just picking the horse whose jockey has the prettiest colors, a lucky number or a name they like. But this isn’t the best tactic if you’re hoping to come away with something.

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Timing
You should also bear in mind that unlike in the majority of sports, where the odds for each outcome remain relatively stable ahead of the start of the event, prices can change dramatically in the minutes leading up to a race.

The odds are governed by aspects like form and the overall likelihood of a horse winning a race, but they are also affected by the amount of money being wagered. A heavily-backed horse could see its odds shrink very quickly, so timing can also play a part in ensuring you get the best value from your bet.
 

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Terminology
Before you make your first bet, you should become familiar with the types of bet available. Although it’s most common to bet on the horse that you think will win, there are other wagers you can make that don’t depend on finishing first.

For example, in some races, an each-way bet will secure you a pay-out if your horse finishes first or second, while you may also choose to bet on multiple horses to increase your winning. But bear in mind that these methods will reduce the overall amount you can win from a race, so if you’re chasing a big prize then it’s best to stick to straight bets on single horses.

Keep it fun!
As we have discussed, there’s no such thing as a foolproof betting strategy, whatever your sport, and you should be wary of anybody who says they can offer you a guaranteed win. Expert tips and advice is great, but nobody knows for sure who’ll cross the finish post first.

It’s also important to set limits at the start of the week. Consider how much you can afford to spend over the course of the week, perhaps breaking it down by day, and stick to it. And remember that small wins can be just as exciting as big wins, so don’t be embarrassed to keep your stakes small!