For National Hunt Racing enthusiasts, these are some of the best weeks of the year -  the last few weeks before the iconic Cheltenham Racing Festival, which this year kicks off on March 13th. For most racing enthusiasts who love Cheltenham, much of the enjoyment is the build-up. Looking out for the clues, hints and tips and trying to come up with your 'Festival Banker' is half the fun. 

Another hugely popular aspect of the build up to Cheltenham has been the Cheltenham Preview Nights. Maryland GAA club have organised hugely successful previews over the last few years and the event goes from strength to strength every year, drawing racing entusiasts from all over the Midlands. This year the event is sponsored by Sportstalk.ie and will be held on Friday March 2nd at 9pm in the new venue of Dr Cuppaiges in Moate. 

Once again Maryland have assembled a brilliant line-up of guests for their preview night. Up and coming UK trainer Dan Skelton will make the trip over for his first visit to the Moate. Dan spent 9 years as assistant to champion trainer Paul Nicholls and had Cheltenham legends like Kauto Star, Big Buck's, Master Minded and Denman under his care. He branched out on his own 4 years ago and has had stellar success. So far this year he has trained over 130 winners and has earned over £1.2 million in prizemoney. He has over 180 horses under his care and has many live Cheltenham chances including the exciting Ch'tibello in the Champion Hurdle. 

Local jockey Shane Shortall makes his first appearance in the Maryland Preview. Shane is now based with Joseph O'Brien after a stint with Tony Martin previously. Shane has an impressive strike rate of 10% this national hunt season. His biggest achievement in the saddle was winning the Galway Plate on the Noel Meade trained Road to Riches.

Another addition to the line up is Monaghan man and racing journalist Tony Keenan. Tony writes a weekly betting column for Betfair and is a regular contributor to the Final Furlong podcast. He is a keen form student with a particular emphasis on the clock along with possessing a keen eye for value in the betting ring. 

A constant on the Maryland panel is Tony Mullins, brother of champion trainer Willie. Tony never disappoints, both with his forthright views on the chances of the family's horses and his sharp wit. Behind the humour lies a deep knowledge of the Irish National Hunt scene and he is never afraid to lay his cards on the table. His nap at the preview for the last four years have all came up trumps -can he make it a five timer this year! 

MC on the night will be returning regular Johnny Ward. Johnny is a freelance journalist and is kept busy contributing to Newstalk, 2FM, The Sunday Business Post, Ladbrokes and RTE to name a few! He's never afraid to give his knowledgeable opinions as will press the panel for real insights. 

Entry is €10 payable on the door. A draw with some terrific prizes, will take place on the night. For racing and non-racing fans this promises to be a night not to be missed.

Tweet

Most Read Stories