Overview
- Torrential rain and reported gusts up to 50mph hit Prestbury Park on St Patrick's Thursday, with many racegoers struggling with umbrellas and hats.
- Course officials opened the gates earlier than planned as thousands still entered the racecourse despite the conditions.
- Cheltenham officials ordered some fragile temporary installations to be dismantled for safety as winds strengthened.
- Racing proceeded from around 1:20pm, with the Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle starting the afternoon card.
- Price cuts were in force across bars, including Guinness at £7.50, as part of efforts to address the recent fall in attendance.