Bowen Channels McCoy's Spirit in Epic Cheltenham Battle
As Storm Claudia unleashed its fury upon Cheltenham on Friday, creating treacherous conditions for both racegoers and competitors, one jockey's determination shone through the gloom. Sean Bowen, the current champion jockey, delivered a performance that evoked memories of Tony McCoy's legendary never-say-die ride on Wichita Lineman, battling to an unlikely victory on the novice chaser Wade Out.
A Victory Forged Through Sheer Persistence
The race unfolded as a true test of endurance, lasting nearly seven minutes across two demanding circuits. For most of the contest, victory seemed an impossible dream for the pairing. Wade Out was trailing in last place as they headed out onto the final circuit, consistently jumping fences without fluency or speed. Multiple times, the horse appeared to be dropping out of contention entirely, only for Bowen's relentless coaxing and cajoling to keep him in touch with his three rivals.
The most decisive moment came on the run down the hill, where Wade Out hit another flat spot. With One Big Bang and Isaac Des Obeaux easing clear, the race appeared conclusively over. Yet, as the leaders tired approaching the final fence, Bowen and his mount emerged from the driving rain to launch a challenge on the inside. Despite another untidy jump at the last, their combined resolve proved unstoppable, crossing the line three lengths clear.
"He was lazy, he didn't jump because he was lazy and probably the ground didn't help him," a triumphant Bowen admitted afterwards. "He did a lot wrong and still managed to win. I was on nothing two out and at the last... but then he got to the front. He's a good horse, you just have to try and get the best out of him."
Quality Shines Alongside Grit as Storm Looms Over Saturday Card
While Bowen and Wade Out provided the day's grittiest story, L'Eau Du Sud supplied the quality with a breathtaking performance in the Grade Two Shloer Chase. Trained by Dan Skelton, the chaser cruised to a 15-length victory on a tight rein, effortlessly defeating Jonbon, who had won the race for the previous two years.
"We had him prepared for today and we're super-happy with what we've seen," Skelton stated. "It means we're going to head down that Grade One route and what a joy to be able to look forward to it." The trainer confirmed plans to target the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December, having learned from a minor campaign misstep the previous season.
The dramatic weather has cast some uncertainty over Saturday's high-profile card, which features the prestigious Paddy Power Gold Cup. Clerk of the course Jon Pullin announced a precautionary inspection for 7.30am. "We've still got further rain to come," Pullin said on Friday. "Having opened it up, it makes sense to have a look in the morning. The forecast is saying it should be drying up from 1am."
Saturday's Paddy Power Gold Cup: A Test of Endurance
With just 6lb separating the entire field according to Timeform's ratings, and Friday's heavy rain ensuring a stern test, the Paddy Power Gold Cup promises a thrilling contest. Paul Nicholls's Il Ridoto, a consistent performer in this race with form figures of 4-3-1 in its last three runnings, faces fresh challenges from promising second-season chasers.
While Thecompanysergeant and Vicenzo are leading contenders, the gruelling conditions may favour those at the bottom of the weights. Paul Nolan's Conyers Hill, an each-way option at around 16-1, is tipped for a strong performance. The seven-year-old is still relatively inexperienced over fences, acts on heavy ground, and his handy racing weight of 11st 1lb could prove decisive in the closing stages.
Elsewhere on the card, Dan Skelton's Be Aware looks well-placed in the 1.45, continuing the trainer's knack for transforming high-class hurdlers into superior chasers. In the 2.55 handicap hurdle, Long Draw offers value against the favourite, having finished close behind at the October meeting. The day's nap selection is Conyers Hill (2.20), with Kap Boy (3.30) named as the next best bet following a convincing win for his new yard.
