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The first episode of the new Racing Post Upping the Ante series sees David Jennings and Johnny Dineen return with a mix of humour, reflection, and early-season analysis ahead of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. Johnny confirms this will be his final season on the show and speaks openly about a challenging personal year and a mixed summer of betting, using the discussion to stress the importance of responsible gambling. The pair review the key moments from the summer jumps scene, answer viewer questions on emerging horses, and assess whether British trainers, particularly an improving Dan Skelton, can close the gap on Ireland at next year’s Festival. Notable talking points include skepticism around early hype for No Drama This End, confidence in Final Demand’s short price for the Brown Advisory, and eye-catching performances from horses such as Kimrock, Lamb, and Laut des Sables.
The episode also looks ahead to major upcoming races including the Betfair Chase, Morgiana Hurdle, and John Durkan, with both hosts siding with Grey Dawning in the Betfair and offering differing views on Gaelic Warrior versus Fast or Slow. Their charity selections for the weekend are Idaho Sun and Gidley Park, while early Cheltenham ante-post tips include David’s selection of Surtudo (25/1) for the Albert Bartlett and Johnny’s choice of Dr. De Manil (14/1) for the Turners Novices’ Hurdle. Blending personal moments, standout performances, and long-range Festival pointers, the episode offers a strong early guide for racing fans as the new season takes shape.
