Gainford Returns to the Saddle with Hewick for Gold Cup Challenge

Jordan Gainford will once again partner with Hewick in the upcoming Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The talented young rider has been a consistent companion to the nine-year-old, guiding him to a remarkable trio of significant victories in 2022. This included triumphs in the bet365 Gold Cup, the Galway Plate, and the American Grand National.

Despite a setback due to injuries, Gainford has not competitively ridden Hewick since a fall during last year's Gold Cup race. Following the incident, Rachael Blackmore took the reins for a win at Sandown, and Gavin Sheehan guided Hewick to success in the King George at Kempton.

After being sidelined due to damaged vertebrae from a fall in mid-December, Gainford marked his return late last month. Following recent winning performances at Leopardstown, trainer Shark Hanlon has confirmed that Gainford will be back in the saddle aboard Hewick at Prestbury Park.

Hanlon expressed,

“Jordan will be the jockey for the horse. Gavin has performed admirably and given the horse a commendable ride. However, Jordan has a deep connection with the horse, having shaped his success in the past. It is only fitting to have him ride Hewick next week.”

Acknowledging the decision, Sheehan responded graciously on X (formerly Twitter), stating,

“Massive respect to @jhanlonracing for his faith in Jordan. Best wishes to Hewick and his connections for Cheltenham. The horse provided me with an unforgettable moment in my career, and I will always be thankful.”

BoyleSports, sponsors of Hanlon’s stable, has pledged a generous donation of €100,000 to charity, with the sum to be split between the Irish Injured Jockeys and the Injured Jockeys Fund in the UK if Hewick emerges victorious.