Defending Champion Inothewayurthinkin and Two-Time Winner Galopin Des Champs Headline Entries for the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup has attracted a stellar field of 33 contenders, including last year's winner Inothewayurthinkin, two-time champion Galopin Des Champs, and Harry Redknapp's The Jukebox Man. Notably, only nine of the entries are trained in the UK, with The Jukebox Man leading the charge after a thrilling victory in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park. The British representation has seen an uptick from the record low of five last year, while the overall number of entries has increased significantly from 19 to 33. Other prominent UK-trained horses include Dan Skelton's Grey Dawning, Rebecca Curtis's Haiti Couleurs, and Nicky Henderson's Jango Baie. Inothewayurthinkin has faced challenges since his triumph, finishing poorly in his last two outings, and his trainer Gavin Cromwell is hoping for an improvement in the Irish Gold Cup. Cromwell expressed, 'He enjoys Cheltenham, and we're hoping to get him back on track after a disappointing Christmas.' Galopin Des Champs made a strong seasonal return in the Savills Chase, pleasing his trainer Willie Mullins. Mullins has also entered several other notable horses, including Champ Kiely, Gaelic Warrior, and Grand National winner I Am Maximus. Gordon Elliott has six entries, including Gerri Colombe, who has previously placed in the race. Other top contenders from Ireland include Affordale Fury, Banbridge, and Envoi Allen. The BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase has drawn 24 entries, featuring reigning champion Marine Nationale, Il Etait Temps, and Christmas Hurdle winner Sir Gino. Marine Nationale, trained and owned by Barry Connell, won decisively last season and followed up with an impressive victory at Punchestown. Il Etait Temps is seeking his first Cheltenham win, having finished fifth in the 2022 Triumph Hurdle and third in the 2024 Arkle. Nicky Henderson's Jonbon is another top contender, although his stablemate Sir Gino is being aimed at the Champion Hurdle. Previous winners Energumene and Captain Guineas are also bidding to reclaim their titles. The Ryanair Chase provides an alternative option for several horses, including Grey Dawning, Banbridge, and Jango Baie.