For Lambourn-based coach Jamie Snowden, Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup – previously the Hennessy – is the ‘native Gold Cup’, so it’s no shock {that a} plaque commemorating final yr’s triumph within the race sits proudly in his yard.
Datsalrightgino, who sadly died within the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham in January, was Snowden’s 2023 hero, offering a little bit of an upset as Gavin Sheehan steered the 16/1 shot residence on his first begin over three miles.
The identical connections at the moment are hoping to repeat the feat with Colonel Harry, whose profession thus far seems remarkably much like his former stablemate.
Talking to Sky Sports activities Racing forward of Saturday’s function, Snowden stated: “Their careers have nearly mirrored one another. They even began off in the identical novice chase at Chepstow and each received it.
“It is simply the way in which it is labored out however they’re each Grade Two winners as novice chasers, Grade One positioned and unexposed as staying chasers.
“Datsalrightgino was a bit extra of a bull, whereas Colonel Harry is extra athletic. He is a beautiful horse and we have been working again from this race.”
Colonel Harry in successful motion over hurdles
Requested concerning the problem of making an attempt over three miles for the primary time, Snowden stated: “In his early days he was fairly eager and that is why he did most of his successful over two miles.
“The older he is bought, the extra relaxed he’s and the simpler he’s to coach.”
The opposite query mark hanging over Colonel Harry is whether or not he’ll deal with the hustle and bustle of the Coral Gold Cup subject, for which 16 horses stay in rivalry.
His work rider Stefan Namesansky stated: “He is by no means confronted such a giant subject however I feel he is courageous sufficient. So long as we get loads of rain and the bottom is comfortable, that can play to his strengths.”
Gavin Sheehan celebrates as Datsalrightgino wins the 2023 Coral Gold Cup at Newbury
Ought to Colonel Harry ship, Snowden will turn out to be the primary coach to win the race in consecutive years since his former boss and Lambourn neighbour Nicky Henderson in 2013.
“It feels a really particular race for anybody residing within the native space,” Snowden stated.
“Once I was at Nicky’s [Henderson] we had Trabolgan win the race and I keep in mind the massive events and celebrations off the again of that.
“We actually celebrated laborious when Gino [Datsalrightgino] received!”
