Racing pundit Jane Mangan gives her Cheltenham Festival tips and answers our questions

Jane Mangan is working her dream job alongside some of the biggest names in the business, Nick Luck and Ruby Walsh. The Racing TV pundit and William Hill ambassador hopes Ballyburn wins for Willie Mullins at this year's Cheltenham Festival

Racing TV pundit Jane Mangan talks all things Cheltenham Festival and gives us her best bets for the big week at Prestbury Park.

- What is your background in racing?

I'm from a racing family in County Cork, very much into breeding and trading racehorses. My father Jimmy Mangan trained the winner of the 2003 Aintree Grand National, Monty’s Pass. I rode as an amateur jockey and had a Grade One success for David Pipe at Punchestown in 2013, on a horse called The Liquidator. That was lovely as I was a 5lb claimer at the time. Whenever I had a winner for mum and dad it was extra special.

-Tell us more about that memorable day at Aintree?

I was only nine so wasn't old enough to appreciate the enormity of it. We had a stable of 15 horses and he was to be sold, but failed the vet. He was such a genuine horse, a much better chaser than hurdler who loved good ground – and wouldn't have appreciated the watering that happens today. After racing he retired on the farm, where he lived to the age of 29. He spent many happy years in his paddock, taking charge of his field companion.

- How did you get into broadcasting?

It was by chance. I did some interviews while I was race-riding and RTE said I could do some work for them alongside it. I started off in radio for a couple of years in 2018 and made my TV debut at the Galway Festival. I'm really grateful for all the opportunities I have had so far. It's a job I never thought I would get the chance to do.

- Who have you enjoyed working with the most?

Robert Hall, who retired the day Faugheen won a Grade One novice chase as a 12-year-old in 2020. Ruby Walsh is able to articulate what he sees very well. Nick Luck is the sport's best presenter in my opinion. I like working with people who challenge me to improve further.

- You've recently been announced as a William Hill ambassador, what can we look forward to with that?

A weekly blog, video snippets talking about the big races and original content as we build up to the spring festivals. It's great they are getting more into Irish racing, as the sport wouldn't be as interesting without our rivalry with the British. I'm very lucky to become an ambassador and work with some fantastic people.

- Who is your idol?

In the saddle, Nina Carberry. She was the best amateur jockey I have ever seen - a class apart in her time.

- How many years have you been going to Cheltenham and what does it mean to you?

I had a couple of rides in 2013-4 and only went back when I was broadcasting. I didn't want to be there unless I was doing something. It's super exciting to be at the Festival. It really builds when you get to the airport, with so many people going over. We come over and win most of the races! I remember when the Prestbury Cup was first invented, we thought it was ridiculous and didn't have a hope of taking it. How things have changed.

- What's your daily routine during the Festival?

I'm working for Racing TV all week. It's early nights for an 8am start each morning. To relax, I walk the track, as it's like being in a big field. I then go in the press room to study and don't come out until I have to. Preparation is key. When they are at the start for the Supreme, day two is already done in my head.

- What racedays stand out for you there?

I fondly remember the era with Irish hurdlers such as Hardy Eustace, Harchibald and Brave Inca. The great Moscow Flyer scoring there three times. Irish winners were as rare as diamonds back then. He was an amazing horse but he used to annoy me as he made silly mistakes for a horse of his ability.

More recently, I was covering Cheltenham for Racing TV when Rachael Blackmore won the 2022 Gold Cup on A Plus Tard. In the past it was something we never thought we would see. It was the icing on the cake for Irish racing that week.

- Why do you think the Irish have dominated the Festival in recent years?

Investment and buying the right horses. Irish trainers keep reinforcing the pack with aces, they have depth and owners with deep pockets.

- What are you most looking forward to at this year's meeting?

Like everyone, Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle, as we haven't seen him race since Christmas. The Champion Chase is one of my favourite races, two milers going quick over the fences. I like trying to work out the handicaps, at least they give the British trainers a chance!

- What is racing's biggest challenge at the moment?

Affordability checks and Ireland's impending Gambling Regulation Bill in its current form.

- What do you do to relax when the working day is done?

I'm a big Taylor Swift fan and have a date or two in the diary to see her in concert this summer. I hope to go to Wimbledon this year and the Olympics in Paris if I'm really lucky.

Jane Mangan's top tips for the 2024 Cheltenham Festival

Mangan's multiple starts with Ballyburn in the Gallagher Novices' Hurdle on Wednesday. "He's relentless and is yet to look tired to me," she said.

One of many favourites for Willie Mullins across the 28 races, the formidable stable is led by Gold Cup champion Galopin Des Champs. Mangan thinks tactics are key and she expects Paul Townend to ride the market leader more prominently than last year.

"I think they'll win it again," she said. "They have worked out how to beat Fastorslow, who I have a lot of respect for. As for Shishkin, I think he was at his best two years ago. He lacks tactical pace and will be staying on late. Galopin Des Champs has all the class in the world."

The final ace is another Mullins-trained runner in the Coral Cup. "Sa Majeste, another for Willie, beat Grand National winner Noble Yeats last time and is unexposed."