L'Homme Presse Optimistic Ahead of Gold Cup Challenge
Connections of L’Homme Presse are likening their anticipation for the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup to bubble wrap – tightly wound and filled with excitement.
Trained by Venetia Williams, the nine-year-old gelding left co-owners Andy and Pam Edwards and Peter and Patricia Pink elated with a remarkable victory at the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase in 2022. However, their joy was cut short a year ago when the horse missed out on the prestigious blue riband due to an injury setback.
Regarded as one of Britain’s strongest contenders for Gold Cup success, L’Homme Presse is now on the brink of his opportunity to compete in the week’s main event.
Following a 391-day hiatus, during which there have been no signs of recurring injuries, hopes are high among the connections for a triumphant return at the upcoming National Hunt racing showcase.
Andy Edwards, one of the owners, expressed a mix of anxiety and anticipation leading up to the event, highlighting the meticulous care needed to ensure the horse is race-ready. The pressure intensifies as the clock ticks down to the Festival, with no room for error as the team strives to bring L’Homme Presse to peak form.
Reflecting on the recent races, including a less-than-ideal performance at the Ascot Chase, where the favourite fell short of expectations, Edwards remains optimistic about the horse's prospects. Despite the challenges faced, L’Homme Presse’s team believes the experience has set the stage for a competitive showing at Cheltenham.
With the Gold Cup presenting a more suitable endurance challenge compared to previous races, the team is banking on L’Homme Presse’s stamina and past success on soft ground. Edwards is hopeful for rain to maintain the desired conditions, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown on March 16.
As the anticipation builds and preparations intensify, the team remains unwavering in their belief in L’Homme Presse’s potential, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to shine on the grand stage at Cheltenham.