Shock outsider Ravenhill Road is proving popular with the Festival residents.
Ravenhill Road is yet to tackle the famous Cheltenham hill, but betting suggests locals believe the Brian Ellison-trained horse is destined for glory at this year’s festival. The seven-year-old won three races on the bounce, before struggling when stepping up in class.
Despite there being no clear reason why Ellison’s horse would be backed for success, the locals of Cheltenham have entrusted their money in the Irish contender. It’s the most backed ante-post horse in the town, accounting for 14% of bets.
The majority of these bets have been on the Ballymore Novices Hurdle where this horse is 66/1.
However, there’s been a few bets for her being successful in the Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle at 50/1.
Stormy Ireland has been the second most backed ante-post horse in the town, accounting for just a touch over 10% of all ante-post bets. Willie Mullins' horse is 8/1 for the Triumph Hurdle and 12/1 for the Mares Novices Hurdle.
Oddschecker spokesman, George Elek "Given that there is still uncertainty over Ravenhill Road's participation, the fact Cheltenham residents are backing the horse is a surprise, especially given the trainer's unenviable Festival record"
