Ruby Walsh’s tips for Day 1 at the Cheltenham Festival

Here, the legendary Jockey and Paddy Power analyst gives his views on the opening day at Cheltenham:

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (13:30) – Facile Vega – 2/1

Ruby says: I’m with Facile Vega and, despite his bad run at the Dublin Racing Festival, I can’t turn my back on him.

The Arkle (14:10) – Saint Roi (each way at 8/1)

Jonbon will be the pick for many, but and the tactics will be fascinating in this race. I like Saint Roi to hit the places.

Festival Handicap Chase (14:50) – Fanion D'Estruval (20/1)

Ruby says: The first handicap of the four-day meeting and it's a very competitive puzzle to solve. Irish runners don't have a great record in this race. Venetia Williams' Fanion D'Estruval drops to handicap company and is an each-way price.

Champion Hurdle (15:30) – Constiution Hill (1/3)

Ruby says: Constitution Hill and State Man set the standard and with just seven runners there’s no each-way option outside these two. It’s hard to back against Constitution Hill and I fancy I'd fancy I Like To Move It as the one at a bigger price for an each-way play.”

Mares' Hurdle (16:10) – Brady Love (9/2)

Ruby says: Honeysuckle and Epatante will go in this one, but I think Honeysuckle has regressed, as much as I want her to win. Brandy Love will improve from Leopardstown and Echoes In Rain (11/1) has a chance as well.

Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (16:50) – Tekao (5/2)

Ruby says: Tekao has a great chance given the level of form he’s shown this season and his third place behind Gala Marceau and Lossiemouth is solid form.

Amateur Jockeys' Novices' Chase (17:30) – Gaillard Du Mesnil 5/6

Gaillard Du Mesnil should give Willie and Patrick Mullins their third National Hunt Chase victory in the finale on day one.