Cheltenham Day One: Expert views from the Racing Only Bettor Festival preview

• Verdicts for every race on Cheltenham Festival Day 1

• Tips from Kevin Blake, Tony Calvin, Brendan Duke

• Is Constitution Hill unstoppable in Champion Hurdle?

Supreme Novices Hurdle - 13:30

Tony Calvin - Il Etait Temps (13/2)

He's a bit of a slow-burner but he ran really well behind Facile Vega [the favourite in this race] a couple of starts ago. If he's out of the first three, I'm having a bad start to the Festival.

Kevin Blake - Facile Vega (7/4)

In his first two runs over hurdles he looked imperious. We need to forgive him last time out. Willie Mullins has had six weeks to work with him and I'm putting my faith in him I'm hoping he has him ready and can produce a career or season's best.

Brendan Duke - Tahmuras (8/1)

I think the English novices are underrated and I'm not convinced by Facile Vega as I'm worried he might not settle.

Arkle Chase - 14:10

Tony Calvin - Saint Roi (8/1) and Dysart Dynamo (9/2) (Both Each Way)

My main bet is Saint Roi, the best hurdler and Grade 1 winner. I'll be backing Saint Roi and Dysart Dynamo each-way.

Kevin Blake - Dysart Dynamo (9/2)

He was well behind El Fabiolo last time but this might suit Dysart Dynamo much more. He's an aggressive low jumper and I'm just hoping that the big two underestimate him. I'm hoping they let him go and he might just nick it. He goes a pretty strong gallop and he might go ahead.

Brendan Duke - Jon Bon (6/4)

He looks a more organised jumper than El Fabiolo. I can just see Jon Bon's experience tilting it.

Ultima Handicap Chase - 14:50

Tony Calvin - Oscar Elite (12/1)

Third in the race last year, a lot of horses run well having performed at the festival before and I think he is worth a bet at double figure odds.

Brendan Duke - Happygolucky (12/1)

He did suffer a New Year's Day hangover at Cheltenham, but it's the only bad run he's had in his life, at a double figure price I'm interested.

Champion Hurdle - 15:30

Tony Calvin - I Like to Move it (Without Constitution Hill - 4/1)

He is a young improver, I'd go each-way or straight win only.

Kevin Blake - Constitution Hill (1/3)

Hard to knock him, if you're looking for a straight forecast then I would go Constitution Hill followed by State Man.

Brendan Duke - Constitution Hill (1/3)

He will win by 6.5 lengths or more.

Mares Hurdle - 16:10

Kevin Blake - Brandy Love (11/2)

A wonderfully talented mare, I can't wait to see her go left-handed.

National Hunt Chase 17:30

Tony Calvin - Mahler Mission Each Way (6/1)

I'd like Gaillard Du Mesnil not to be there but if he is I will get a bigger price.

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