Cheltenham Festival features excitement and remembrance this year

The Cheltenham Festival begins tomorrow, featuring 28 races over four days. This year, the excitement is mixed with sadness due to the recent death of Irish jockey Michael O'Sullivan, prompting the Supreme Novices' Hurdle to be renamed in his honor. Irish horses, trainers, and jockeys are expected to dominate the event, continuing a trend where they have not lost the Prestbury Cup since 2015. Trainer Willie Mullins leads with 103 festival victories, showcasing the strength of Irish racing. The festival holds special significance for smaller trainers like JP Flavin, who hopes for success with his horse, Midnight Our Fred. The event is a family affair for owners Florence and Emily Lockwood, who are excited to see their horse compete at Cheltenham.