Il Ridoto Secures Paddy Power Gold Cup Victory on Third Attempt

Il Ridoto achieved success on its third try, clinching the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham. The racehorse, co-owned by former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, had previously finished fourth in 2022 and third last year. This time, under the guidance of jockey Freddie Gingell, a burgeoning talent in the sport, and trainer Paul Nicholls, it secured victory by four-and-a-half lengths with odds of 10-1. Gingell had also ridden Il Ridoto in the previous year’s event. Trainer Nicholls, who claimed the race last year with Stage Star, had initially considered Ginny’s Destiny, ridden by Harry Cobden, as his primary contender for this year’s event; however, that horse faltered three fences from the finish line. Nevertheless, Gingell, a jockey with a 3lb claim, capitalized on the opportunity, winning ahead of Ga Law, the 2022 victor, and Let’s Go Champ, who finished third. “It’s days like this we really dream of,” stated Gingell, who had secured his inaugural Grade One victory at Ascot in January. Reflecting on the race, he added, “Down the hill I saw Harry give Ginny’s a little squeeze and I thought: ‘I’m still happy here.'” He continued, “He’s done it really well in the end, a big thanks to everyone at home and all the owners. It’s amazing.” Describing Il Ridoto’s performance, Gingell remarked, “He was jumping for fun. I thought I’d got there too soon, but Paul told me that when I turn in, to kick on no matter what so I did and he’s done it easy.” Nicholls commented that his choice to race the horse at Chepstow the previous month had proven beneficial, and he lauded Gingell’s ride. The 14-time champion trainer remarked, “He’s keen, he’s hungry, he works hard and he deserves all the success he gets.” He further stated, “It was a great ride and the horse deserved to win a big one. I’d say Ginny’s Destiny just needed it. He was the same first time out last year.” Il Ridoto is scheduled to return for the December Gold Cup, with Nicholls noting, “he loves it round here. It doesn’t matter what he does for the rest of the season.” This marks the second significant race victory in two days for Ferguson, following Spirit Dancer’s successful defense of its Bahrain Trophy title on Friday.