The Cheltenham Festival is the ultimate event in the National Hunt racing world, where the best jockeys, trainers, and horses all come together to compete on one of the most famous stages in the sport. Over the years, Wales has produced some incredible talent – both in the saddle and on the track.
As Cheltenham Festival betting 2025 opens up and the top contenders are being identified, here we look at some of those who have had a huge impact on the Cheltenham Festival over the years…
Top Welsh Jockeys
First, let’s look at some of the most successful jockeys…
Jonathan “J.J.” Williams
He may be better known for his rugby exploits – but he managed to successfully transition into a big-name National Hunt jockey and although he wasn’t necessarily a frequent Cheltenham Festival winner, he showed a dedication to Welsh racing that paved the way for future generations of jockeys. He also managed to balance two demanding and successful careers, which is another reason he deserves his place in Welsh sporting history.
Carl Llewellyn
Then we have Carl Llewellyn, who is one of the most successful Welsh jockeys in Cheltenham Festival history. He was born in Pembrokeshire, and won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1992 riding Cool Ground.
He had various other Festival successes – including wins in the Coral Cup along with a number of other appearances in Grade 1 races, making him a household name with fans across the UK. After he retired he became a respected trainer.
Christian Williams
This Bridgend racer made a huge impact during his riding career – enjoying wins at numerous major events and with his cool head and strong riding style, he was a competitor in many Cheltenham Festival races. After he retired, he became a successful trainer, with some of his horses including Kitty’s Light and Win My Wings making headlines.
Sam Thomas
Sam Thomas, born in Abergavenny, made his name in Cheltenham history in the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup when he won aboard his trusty steed, Denman. Partnered with the legendary Paul Nicholls yard, he played a huge role in one of the sport’s most memorable rivalries… between Denman and Kauto Star and his Gold Cup win is still a huge moment for Welsh racing at the Festival.
Top Welsh Horses
Now, let’s check out some of the most successful Welsh horses ever.
Norton’s Coin
Norton’s Coin was probably the most surprising Cheltenham Gold Cup winner ever after his win in 1990. The horse was trained in Carmarthenshire by dairy farmer Sirrel Griffiths – and despite going into the race as a 100/1 outsider, he left the racing world stunned when he beat the mighty – and very famous Desert Orchid.
He became a symbol of the underdog triumphing against all odds and has gone down in history.
Imperial Commander
Although he wasn’t actually trained in Wales, the horse had strong Welsh connections through his owner, Nigel Twiston-Davies, who had a yard with close ties to the Welsh border.
He won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2010 – beating some of the biggest racing names including Kauto Star and Denman.
Silver Streak
Arguably a modern-day Welsh hero, this streak of lightning enjoyed plenty of runs at the Cheltenham Festival – and even placed in the Champion Hurdle. Trained by Evan Williams in the Vale of Glamorgan, he was a talented grey hurdler that always performed at the very highest level. Although he never actually managed a Cheltenham win, he did enjoy wins in Grade 1 races elsewhere that showcased his class and skill.
Potters Corner
Potters Corner was trained by Christian Williams who became famous for winning the Welsh Grand National in 2019. Although he never actually enjoyed any wins in the Cheltenham Festival he had a resilience that made him a fan favourite.
The Welsh Influence on Cheltenham
Welsh jockeys, horses… and even trainers have had some pretty impressive successes at Cheltenham – which is a reflection of the country’s love of and dedication to the sport.
They’ve treated us to shock victories and passionate wins… and we’re sure that Wales will keep on contributing to the beauty and glory of the Cheltenham festival for many years to come.
Read More: click here
Leave a Reply