Willie Mullins expressed that Galopin Des Champs struggled with his jumping abilities, ultimately costing him a chance to secure a third consecutive Boodles Gold Cup at Cheltenham.
Despite an impressive start to the day, with Mullins winning the first four races, Galopin Des Champs fell short in his attempt to join the elite circle of triple Gold Cup champions.
Jockey Paul Townend found himself out of position early in the race but regained momentum as he approached the leaders downhill. As they turned into the straight, hopes rose for a historic victory.
However, Gavin Cromwell’s Inothewayurthinkin, who had been added to the race just days prior, surged past the 8-13 favorite, clinching a remarkable six-length victory.
“He was never comfortable until he reached the fourth-last,” Mullins noted, concluding a stellar week by equalling his own record of 10 winners.
“He struggled to find his pace throughout the race, and poor jumping kept him from being competitive.” Mullins added that the drying ground may have also played a role in Galopin’s performance.
In terms of competition, Townend commented on the impact of Ahoy Senor’s fall, suggesting it did not significantly affect Galopin Des Champs, but was hoping the incident would invigorate him.
“He wasn’t jumping well; he was too labored,” Mullins observed. “The only moment he looked in contention was at the fourth-last, where he used too much energy jumping too big. Inothewayurthinkin deserved the victory.”
Townend, who also fell short in Al Boum Photo’s bid for a third Gold Cup victory, agreed that Galopin Des Champs never found his rhythm during the race. “He gave it his all, but he faced challenges at every turn. He showed heart and provided excitement for much of the race,” he said. “There were moments I hoped he would regain his form, but it was more wishful thinking.”
