It's three in a row for Best Mate (Getty Images).

By Andy Schooler

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Bookies celebrate profitable Festival

Best Mate is a best price of 5/2 to win a fourth successive Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2005.

The nine-year-old wrote his name into the racing history books on Thursday when winning the race for a third time - equalling the legendary Arkle's achievement in the 1960s.

Ladbrokes offer 5/2 about another win next year, while the Magic Sign also go 12/1 about Best Mate extending the streak to five straight wins.

Coral go 9/4 for a 2005 success, Paddy Power 2/1, while Hills are just 7/4.

Power report they have already seen plenty of interest at their price.

The victory cost the industry around £5million, but Coral spokesman Simon Clare said the story of a third win in a row had boosted the sport's image.

"You simply can't put a figure on what this incredible horse has done for racing's image today. After a week where the sport has been dragged through the gutter, Best Mate has reminded us all how thrilling horse racing can be."

Meanwhile, Hills reported that Harbour Pilot was now their favourite for the Grand National following his third place in the Gold Cup.

The Noel Meade-trained horse is into 10/1 from 33s for the Aintree showpiece on April 3.

As for other races at the 2005 Cheltenham Festival, Rooster Booster is a general favourite for the Champion Hurdle at around 8/1 despite losing to Hardy Eustace this year.

Made In Japan is into 20/1 with Coral after winning the Triumph Hurdle on Thursday.

For the Queen Mother Champion Chase, 2004 winner Azertyuiop is 6/4 for a repeat with Coral, while Moscow Flyer, who went off favourite this year but fell, is out at 5/1. Hills go 2/1 and 5/2 respectively.

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