The don takes charge

Stephen Mullen on Gold Cup Day

Djakadam, who was ridden by Ruby Walsh for owner Rich Ricci:“We have no excuses – he had every chance from the fifth-last home and jumped as cleanly as he could. He was beaten by a better horse on the day so congratulations to all the connections of the winner.”

Colin Tizzard reflected on Cue Card’s fall at the third last fence when his horse had taken a narrow lead.

The trainer said:“We just thank god that Cue Card got up after the fall. That is championship racing, isn’t it – two seconds before that you think here we go – he was slightly in front. He just put down and hit the top of the fence and over he went.

“He is absolutely fine,he’s walked away as though he hasn’t got a care in the world and hardly blowing. There are worst things that have happened.

“Going flat out in a Gold Cup, it will bring mistakes. He hasn’t looked like falling in four seasons of chasing.Joe fell off him once.

“He was running a brilliant race – I’m chuffed to have had him for the last six years.He is racing differently nowadays – off the bridle and lobbing along.”

RESULT

1 Don Cossack (GER) (Tongue Strap) Gordon Elliott, Ireland 11st 10lb Bryan Cooper 9/4 Fav 2 Djakadam (FR) Willie Mullins, Ireland 11st 10lb RubyWalsh 9/2 3 Don Poli (IRE)Willie Mullins,Ireland 11st 10lb Davy Russell 9/2 4 Carlingford Lough (IRE) John Kiely, Ireland 11st 10lb Barry Geraghty 5 Irish Cavalier (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Rebecca Curtis 11st 10lb Paul Townend 6 Smad Place (FR) Alan King 11st 10lb Wayne Hutchinson 7 O’Faolains Boy (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Rebecca Curtis 11st 10lb Noel Fehily 8 On His Own (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Willie Mullins,Ireland 11st 10lb Mr Patrick Mullins FELL 3 OUT Cue Card (Tongue Strap)