Скачать или смотреть Fact To File Triumphs in John Durkan Chase and Takes Cheltenham Gold Cup Favouritism

🏇 Fact To File cemented his status as one of the brightest stars in the staying chase division with a thrilling victory in the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase, defeating stablemate Galopin Des Champs and rising star Spillane's Tower. This performance has propelled him to 11-4 favouritism for the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup, setting up an electrifying season for Willie Mullins' yard.

A Race for the Ages
The Grade 1 clash at Punchestown was billed as one of the season's highlights, and it did not disappoint. Under a confident ride from Mark Walsh, Fact To File stayed off the ferocious early pace set by Paul Townend aboard Galopin Des Champs. As the leaders tired approaching the last fence, Fact To File surged forward, fending off a late charge from Spillane's Tower to secure a half-length victory.

Trainer Willie Mullins was thrilled with the performance:

"What a race. Fact To File showed true grit, taking the step up to senior company with aplomb. His ability to dig deep and find extra on the run-in was outstanding. It’s going to be a hell of a season."

Gold Cup Credentials Confirmed
Fact To File’s flawless jumping and stamina make him a standout candidate for the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. Paddy Power has slashed his odds to 11-4 (from 4), solidifying his position as the market leader. Stablemate Galopin Des Champs remains a 7-2 second favourite, while Spillane’s Tower, who impressed with his late rally, has been trimmed to 8-1.

What’s Next for Willie Mullins' Stars?
Mullins hinted at a potential rematch at Leopardstown’s Savills Chase, where Galopin Des Champs is expected to bounce back. While Fact To File is unlikely to feature in the King George VI Chase, his next assignment could provide further clues about his dominance in the staying chase division.

Mullins added:

"It was probably one of the best renewals of the John Durkan we've ever seen. Every horse showed potential to win big races this season. The Gold Cup is shaping up to be an incredible contest."

A Hell of a Season Awaits
With Fact To File and Galopin Des Champs both vying for Gold Cup glory, alongside the likes of Spillane's Tower and Fastorslow, the 2024-25 National Hunt season promises to be one for the ages.

📈 Cheltenham Gold Cup Odds (Paddy Power):

11-4 Fact To File
7-2 Galopin Des Champs
8-1 Spillane’s Tower
10-1 Fastorslow
16-1 Gerri Colombe, Grey Dawning, I Am Maximus
20-1 bar

💡 Stay tuned for more updates, betting tips, and Cheltenham Festival 2025 insights! Follow us for all the latest on Willie Mullins' stable stars and other top contenders.

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