On the 17th, 18th and 19th of March, Cheltenham , a neat little town in the shadow of Cleeve Hill in the Cotswolds, plays host to one of the most important events of the sporting year. It is mentioned in the same breath as the FA Cup Final, The Grand National and the All Ireland. It enjoys a very special position in Irish life and is referred to simply as 'The Festival' . Very few occasions can equal its potency, its style and its universal appeal. People who would not think of putting on a bet during the year have a flutter during the festival.
Tips abound and consequently excuses are offered.
The worldwide media is there to record these crazy days and millions of people around the globe marvel at the spectacle and promise themselves that they will be there next year. It is no coincidence that it begins on St. Patrick's Day because it really is an Irish holiday. The Irish are part of the Cheltenham legend, from the horses and jockeys to the fearless punters who make it their Mecca. Irish horses have achieved godlike status because of their feats at Cheltenham. Arkle and Red Rum are names to conjure with and are spoken of with a same misty-eyed reverence usually reserved for saints or legendary heroes.