Plate Handicap Chase Tips & Odds

Plate Handicap Chase Tips

It is far too early to offer any firm tips for the 2027 Plate Handicap Chase at this stage, with the 2026 Cheltenham Festival only just behind us and the shape of next season’s two-and-a-half-mile handicap chase division still to emerge. Entries, weights, targets and spring campaigns will all have a major bearing on this race, and plenty of the horses who could line up in March 2027 may not even be on the radar yet.

What we can say already is that the Plate often goes to a strong-travelling handicap chaser with accurate jumping, proven stamina at around this trip and the ability to cope with the unique demands of Cheltenham. Course form can be a major asset, while runners coming from strong Irish or British handicap chase form often deserve close attention once the race begins to take shape later in the season.

For now, the best approach is to keep an eye on unexposed second-season chasers, progressive handicap performers and any runners who show they can travel and jump fluently in competitive company. This page will be updated as the 2027 Cheltenham Festival approaches and the Plate picture becomes much clearer.

About the Plate Handicap Chase

The Plate is a handicap chase on day three of the Cheltenham Festival, St Patrick’s Day, run over two miles, four furlongs and 127 yards. The race is one of the more difficult betting heats during the four days, and winners regularly return at a double-figure price, with Carrickboy winning in the Trevor Hemmings colours at 50/1 back in 2013.

The Plate Handicap began life in 1951 and was named the Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup, in memory of the 2nd Baron Mildmay of Flete. The race has been sponsored since 2006 and is currently backed by TrustATrader. It was named in honour of bookmaker Freddie Williams for the 2009 renewal. Three trainers have won the race on three occasions, Bobby Renton, Nicky Henderson and Martin Pipe, while The Tsarevich and Elfast are the only two horses to have ever won the race twice.   

Previous Winners Of The Plate Handicap Chase

Frequently Asked Questions About The Plate Handicap Chase