Cheltenham 2018: First jockey couple in Festival history to battle out for RSA Chase on well-fancied favourites
A COUPLE will set hearts - not betting slips - aflutter at Cheltenham today - as they become the first lovers ever to race each other at the festival.
Bryony Frost, 22, is one of the favourites for the RSA Chase at 2.10pm riding Black Corton.
But she will be lining up alongside her jockey boyfriend Harry Cobden, 19, who is also well-fancied on Elegant Escape.
A source told The Sun: “This is the first time a couple have raced against each other at Cheltenham.
“Races are always high spirited – but I imagine this one will be even more competitive.
“She only went public with him a few weeks ago. It will certainly add some spice to an already fascinating race."
Bryony, whose hobby is climbing, comes from a fine racing pedigree and is the daughter of Grand National legend Jimmy.
As recently as last year she was considered a little-known amateur but has rocketed over the past 12 months.
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Her other half Harry met her riding ponies on Dartmoor and he prefers a quiet night in, staying with his family for his 18th birthday.
Last night Bryony was 8/1 to win the race, while Harry had longer odds on 12/1.
She said on Sunday she was ready for glory, adding “I'm ready. Bring it on”.
Bryony only revealed her boyfriend’s identity in an interview on March 4.
She told the Sunday Times: “He takes the mick out of me. As kids we used to go galavanting with our ponies on Dartmoor.
“I remember this one time, we went to Spitchwick, a massive river with a cliff that we used to jump off. You could see Harry’s knees had started to wobble and I said whatever you do — jump, don’t step off the cliff.
"Well he stepped didn’t he and he disappeared under the water. He was down there for ages, I thought I’d killed him. There have been many times I’ve nearly killed Harry when I’ve taken him down to Devon. I guess he’s just not as feral as me.”
Templegate's top tips for Cheltenham
1.30 Cheltenham - Samcro: 'Stays well, has no problem with this ground and looks a class above'
2.10 Cheltenham - Elegant Escape: 'You'll need a real warrior for this and that's exactly what this lad is'
2.50 Cheltenham - Topofthegame: 'This track should play to his strengths and he's always promised plenty'
3.30 Cheltenham - Altior: 'Always looked like a champion and has the chance to prove it here'
4.10 Cheltenham - Auvergnat: 'The ground can see him turn the tables on Cause Of Causes'
4.50 Cheltenham - Grand Sancy: 'Yet to win but his form gives him a huge chance in this'
5.30 Cheltenham - Blackbow: 'I have no doubts about his stamina on this ground'
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