A tough choice looms for jockey Paul Townend in the upcoming Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, and his words reveal a complex dilemma.
Townend, a four-time Gold Cup winner, faces a decision between riding Galopin Des Champs, a dual winner with plenty of spark left, and Gaelic Warrior, who is a close competitor in the market. He admits, "It would be very hard to give up the ride on Galopin Des Champs."
But here's where it gets controversial: Townend believes Galopin Des Champs still has what it takes to win, and he's worried about the consequences if he chooses Gaelic Warrior and the ten-year-old triumphs. "I couldn't live with myself if I jumped off Galopin and he went on to win, emulating legends like Arkle and Best Mate," he says.
When asked about the difficulty of choosing between the two horses, Townend responds, "Nothing is impossible, but it would be a tough decision. I'm not saying I'd never get off Galopin, but if he passed me in the Gold Cup, I'd give myself some space on the plane home."
Galopin Des Champs finished third in the Irish Gold Cup, trailing stablemate Fact To File by over 13 lengths. However, Townend felt a better connection with the superstar chaser in that race compared to their previous outing in the Savills Chase.
Townend, the champion jockey, says, "Galopin gave me a better feel in the Irish Gold Cup. He was more lively, and the rustiness from Christmas seemed gone."
And this is the part most people miss: Townend also has big rides earlier in the meeting, including Lossiemouth, who is favored to win her third Close Brother Mares' Hurdle. When asked about her chances in the Champion Hurdle, Townend believes she "comes alive" at Cheltenham and could win, despite the competition.
Another horse, Kopek Des Bordes, impressed in a recent schooling session, and Townend is excited about his prospects in the Singer Arkle Trophy.
So, who will Townend choose in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup? Will he stay loyal to Galopin Des Champs or take a chance with Gaelic Warrior? And what impact will Lossiemouth and Kopek Des Bordes have on the festival?
These questions and more will be answered as the racing world watches with anticipation.
What do you think? Should Townend stick with Galopin Des Champs or take a risk with Gaelic Warrior? Let us know in the comments!
