Watch: NotLongNow Digs Into Cheltenham’s Handicap Puzzles
The 2026 Cheltenham Festival handicap entries have dropped — and that means it’s time to tackle some of the most fiendishly difficult races of the week.
In association with Bet365, the latest NotLongNow episode sees the panel roll up their sleeves and go searching for value in the Festival’s famous betting minefields.
Host Rory Jiwani is joined by Paddy Aspell, Lee Hayes and Pat Cooney, with one clear objective: uncover as many potential handicap winners as possible.
With competitive fields, compressed ratings and endless plot horses to decipher, the team cut through the noise to identify where the real opportunities may lie.
Expect sharp debate, straight talking and no shortage of big-priced angles.
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County Clues & Big-Price Shouts
The discussion quickly turns to the headline handicaps, where the panel examine early market moves and assess whether the favourites are worth taking on.
Pat is particularly confident about one contender for the County Hurdle, outlining why the profile and likely pace scenario make the horse especially appealing.
Meanwhile, Lee is in bold mood, putting forward several lively outsiders at eye-catching prices.
He makes a strong case for siding with horses who may have been campaigned quietly with this week in mind, rather than those who have shown their hand too early in the season.
Plot Horses, Market Moves & Festival Value
Paddy adds a jockey’s perspective, explaining what it takes to navigate the unique demands of a Cheltenham handicap.
From positioning on the Old Course to conserving energy for the hill, his insight adds a practical edge to the analysis.
The panel debate potential plot angles, question whether the market leaders are vulnerable, and highlight runners who could shorten significantly with horse racing betting sites once declarations are confirmed.
* Do you agree with what the guys had to say, or do you have some strong opinions of your own? Let us know in the comments below!
