Cheltenham contender aims for third Grade One triumph.
Owner Andy Edwards has his sights set on L'Homme Presse to secure a coveted spot in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The talented nine-year-old will compete in the Betfair Ascot Chase at Berkshire's prestigious track this Saturday.
After a lengthy absence, L'Homme Presse made a faultless return to the racing scene in the Fleur De Lys Chase last month. Displaying exceptional form, he triumphed over Protektorat by a margin of just over two lengths. This marked his first race since unseating Charlie Deutsch in the 2022 King George VI Chase.
Following the unfortunate mishap, L'Homme Presse endured a season-ending injury. However, trainer Venetia Williams, along with Edwards and co-owners Peter and Patricia Pink, allowed the gelding ample time to recover and regain his full strength.
Now, with a 27-day gap, L'Homme Presse is prepared to compete at Ascot. Edwards dismisses the notion of the 'bounce factor,' which suggests that horses may struggle in their second race after an extended break.
Edwards confidently stated,
"Since Lingfield, everything has been going well with L'Homme Presse. We were truly amazed by his remarkable comeback, and his performance left us thrilled. We anticipate he will build on this success, starting with the Betfair Ascot Chase this weekend. The 'bounce factor' is not something we concern ourselves with, as each horse is unique. Our sole focus is on our horse, ensuring he runs a race that suits his strengths".
L'Homme Presse is currently priced at 8-1 for the upcoming Cheltenham Gold Cup, where the reigning champion Galopin Des Champs is heavily favoured to defend his title under the guidance of trainer Willie Mullins.
Although Edwards acknowledges the formidable challenge L'Homme Presse would face in the Cotswolds, he embraces the opportunity without hesitation.
He added,
"The dream is still very much alive. Merely being in contention for a race of such calibre is an honour in itself. Our aim is to give our absolute best performance at Ascot this weekend and, if all goes according to plan, seize our chance at Cheltenham.
In a horse race, no contender is invincible, especially in a top-tier event like the Gold Cup, where numerous variables come into play, including jumping, positioning, and even luck. Galopin Des Champs is an exceptional champion deserving admiration. However, we must not underestimate the other horses in the race, as every participant enters with a legitimate chance. With L'Homme Presse, we have yet to determine his true potential. Although he has only competed three times outside novice company, his performances have been nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the mishap in the King George Chase, where the track and ground didn't favour his style, he demonstrated tremendous resilience.
L'Homme Presse possesses an indomitable spirit and tenacity that sets him apart. It is this unwavering determination that can make all the difference on race day. I am certain that, like us, everyone associated with Shishkin and Gerri Colombe is filled with excitement. Over the years, we have witnessed countless surprises in major races, just like the unexpected outcome in this season's King George. As I always say, maintain faith, believe in your horse, and savour every moment".
The Ascot Chase boasts five entries, including the celebrated 2022 hero Fakir d'Oudairies, Pic D'Orhy, Ahoy Senor, and Sail Away.
In the Grade Two Sodexo Live! Novices' Chase, widely known as the Reynoldstown, a total of seven horses have been entered, among them Apple Away and Kilbeg King.