The runners in the Champion hurdle parade in front of the stands. Annie Power, the mare (left) brings up the rear, but came home in front. 15-3-16 crowd crowds spectators
Probably Britain’s oldest racing fan is looking forward to attending Cheltenham Festival (13-16 March) for the first time in decades.
Ralph Hoare, Britain’s third-oldest man at the age of 109, has always loved racing and is particularly excited to watch this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup in person.
Mr Hoare enjoys placing a 10p bet most Saturdays, but it’s been a while since he attended the races.
“I’m very much looking forward to it,” he told H&H. “I like to have a small bet and to see the horse winning.”
Mr Hoare has his sights set on Might Bite for Gold Cup victory, but will be taking a closer look at the line-up the day before he places his bet.
“I haven’t got up to the runners and riders yet,” he added.
Mr Hoare focuses on the racing action at home
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
Mr Hoare last attended the Festival for Arkle’s gold cup victory in 1964.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
This year he will be going to Cheltenham with his daughter, Kate Hughes.
“He’s always been a racing fan,” she told H&H.
“I’ve started watching it with him since I’ve been looking after him and he can’t see well enough to do the bets by himself any more.
“He used to do it over the phone, but then I had to buy him a tablet when they increased the minimum bet.
“He doesn’t get out much now full stop, so it will be quite a big occasion.
Don’t know the difference between a banker and a bumper? Hat or no hat? Swot up with our guide for
“I’ve got to prepare for all eventualities and tell him to behave. He will sleep well the next day.”
Mr Hoare has been having good luck at the festival so far, backing three winners on the first day.
A Jockey Club spokesman said Cheltenham was “delighted” to welcome Mr Hoare on Gold Cup Day.
“We hope that he and his daughter have a wonderful time,” he told H&H. “To be 109 and to want to come to Cheltenham is pretty amazing.”
For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Rachael joined Horse & Hound in 2014, initially as a digital sub editor then became part of the news team as a writer in 2015. The philosophy graduate studied journalism at the Press Association before working as a local reporter at the Brentwood Gazette. Rachael is now a mum of two and still loves all things equestrian, including hacking, dressage and jumping with her cob Bert. Rachael left the H&H staff to go freelance in June 2019, but still contributes to our magazine and website, as well as our sister magazine Country Life, among others.
