Ruby Walsh: Cheltenham Festival tips for both the hard-nosed and fun punters

Fingers crossed you can start the Christmas shopping next Monday if these come good, writes Ruby Walsh

A FAMILIAR SIGHT: Honeysuckle and Rachael Blackmore clear the last to win the 2019 Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse. With 10 wins from 10 outings, Honeysuckle looks the one to beat in the Champion Hurdle. Picture: Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images

There is no doubt each and every one will read how different the Cheltenham Festival is going to be and … blah, blah, blah. I am bored already because the reality is the horse racing will be as good as ever.

Looking at it through green-tinted glasses, it could even be better than ever, so here is my advice for the week ahead — which I will split into two depending on the size of your punting budget and what your ambitions may be.