The Cheltenham Festival is a four-day horse racing event that takes place annually in March at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, England. It is one of the most prestigious events in the horse racing calendar and is known as the “jewel in the crown” of jump racing. Here’s a bluffer’s guide to the festival:The Races: The Cheltenham Festival consists of 28 races across four days, with the most prestigious being the Cheltenham Gold Cup, which takes place on the final day. Other notable races include the Champion Hurdle, the Queen Mother Champion Chase, and the Stayers’ Hurdle.The Course: Cheltenham Racecourse is a left-handed course that is approximately 3 miles long. It is known for its undulating terrain, which includes a steep uphill finish.The Horses: The Cheltenham Festival attracts some of the best horses from around the world, with many trainers targeting specific races at the festival. The festival is particularly known for its strong contingent of Irish-trained horses.The Betting: The Cheltenham Festival is a huge betting event, with millions of pounds wagered on the races each year. Many bookmakers offer special promotions and offers for the festival.The Atmosphere: The Cheltenham Festival is known for its unique atmosphere, with thousands of racegoers attending each day dressed in their finest attire. The festival is also renowned for its “Cheltenham roar,” a deafening noise made by the crowd as the horses approach the first fence.The History: The Cheltenham Festival has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It has seen some of the greatest horses, jockeys, and trainers in the sport of horse racing and has produced some of the most memorable moments in racing history.Overall, the Cheltenham Festival is a must-see event for any horse racing fan, with its thrilling races, unique atmosphere, and rich history making it one of the most exciting sporting events of the year.