Galopin Des Champs received a warm welcome from an adoring crowd upon his return to the village of Leighlinbridge in County Carlow on Tuesday evening. The dual Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, trained by Willie Mullins, showcased his talent once again and solidified his status as one of the few horses to successfully defend the title.
Ridden by jockey Paul Townend and backed as the 11-10 favourite, Galopin Des Champs displayed dominance throughout the race, leaving all competitors in his wake. The only threat came from the loose horse Fastorslow, who momentarily posed a challenge to Galopin Des Champs' quest for a consecutive victory.
With a comfortable three and a half-length lead over Gerri Colombe, owned by Audrey Turley and trained by Gordon Elliott, the eight-year-old gelding has secured his place among the race's legends. Looking ahead, there is potential for Galopin Des Champs to join the esteemed ranks of triple winners, alongside the likes of Arkle and Best Mate.
In another notable moment for Mullins, State Man, the winner of the Champion Hurdle, joined Galopin Des Champs in this memorable event. Mullins' remarkable feat also included his 100th Festival success when Jasmin De Vaux triumphed in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.
“He’s much more mature and more settled this year,” said Mullins. “I think it shows he has improved, and it will take a lot less out of him as well. That means he can race for longer, it will extend his career that he’s not running too free and extending himself too much in the early part of a race.”