Festival Novices' Chase

The Festival Novices' Chase is a prestigious horse race held during the Cheltenham Festival, typically featuring young or inexperienced chasers (horses that race over fences). It is run over a distance of about 2 miles and 4 furlongs and is open to novice jumpers—horses in their first year of chasing. The race attracts top up-and-coming steeplechasers, serving as an important indicator for future star chasers. Its status makes it a key target for trainers aiming to showcase emerging talent in National Hunt racing.