Meetmebythesea Gives JP McManus Victory in the Paddy Power Gold Cup

Trained by Ben Pauling, Meetmebythesea won the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Sent off as a heavily backed favourite, the horse gave jockey Harry Cobden and owner JP McManus their first win in this prestigious race.

The horse had made his return to the track after winning a novice race at the Festival in March. He jumped impressively throughout the race. Blueking d'Oroux, ridden by Dan Skelton for the first time this season, looked like the main danger, while Quebecois, who had led for a long time, faded. Meetmebythesea quickened up the hill and won by two and a half lengths. For Cobden, it was his second big win in two days in McManus's colours.

Pauling praised the horse's courage and development in the race. The trainer said he believed the horse had not yet reached his full potential, so he could have a chance in higher-grade races. The next target is the top-level race at Kempton on Boxing Day. The horse is expected to repeat The Jukebox Man's success in the King George VI Chase last Christmas there.