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To trace the history of the Cheltenham Race Festival one must go back to the race itself, which traces its heritage to 1860. Known as the National Hunt Meeting, the race is one of the most prestigious horse races in all of the United Kingdom. Throughout a four day time period, gamblers from all over the U.K. will meet and ante up millions of pounds on their favorite picks. March 2011 will mark the 100th anniversary of the race as held in Prestbury Park, which has hosted the races uninterrupted since 1911. A place of unbridled history and racing enthusiasm, Prestbury Park is only one of the places where you will find the spirit of celebration among the patrons of this historic event. At the Cheltenham Race Festival, you can also take an opportunity to squeeze in your Saint Patrick's Day Celebration. Since the race typically coincides with the Irish patron saint's day of honor, it is a very popular event with the Irish community. In addition to enjoying some of the finest food and drink in the U.K., attendees also now get the treat of six races per day over the course of four days, which was instituted in 2005. Prior to this the festival ran only three days. Also during recent history, the Cheltenham Race Festival has celebrated the empowerment of women within the previously male dominated jockeying world. With the Ladies Charity Flat Race, the first ever all female jockey exhibition, the event has made huge strides forward in male and female equality while doing it for a good cause. Proceeds from the event go to the Cancer Research UK program. Taking place in 2010, the thrilling outcome was decided by a photo finish wherein Prince Picasso edged out Devil to Pay. Orna Madden was the first place jockey. Famous for one of the biggest Hunter Chases of the season, the Foxhunters' is also known as an amateur's Gold Cup. The Cheltenham Gold Cup was established in 1924 and took place at the 13th festival. Three years later, the Champion Hurdle became part of the mix. The Queen Mother Champion Chase moved the festival forward even further in 1959, while the Stayers Hurdle hit the scene 13 years later. Today, the festival boasts a grand total of 26 races to keep attendees occupied for the entire 96 hours. The Cheltenham Race Festival has grown in scope, pageantry and competition in the last 100 years, and with no signs of slowing down, it promises to continue in the same light for 100 more. If you love horse racing, good times, and pageantry unequalled, then you should get to Gloucestershire to test the waters and see what the Cheltenham Race Festival has waiting for you.
The Arkle Chase is attract racing enthusiasts every year to the Cheltenham Festival. If you want to know more about how you can participate, then visit our site today!
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