Il Ridoto and Freddie Gingell claim Paddy Power Gold Cup glory

Il Ridoto made it third time lucky to finally land the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham, with rising star Freddie Gingell shining in the saddle.

The Paul Nicholls-trained gelding was fourth in the famous handicap in 2022 and third in 2023, but has seen his rating slide since and was looking to put a disappointing end to last season behind him.

Gingell, who claims 3lb, took his opportunity with both hands on the 10-1 chance – who was continuing a sensational spell for co-owners Ged Mason and Sir Alex Ferguson – and cruised to a four-and-half-length victory ahead of 2022 winner Ga Law.

“It’s days like this we really dream of,” Gingell said.

“Down the hill I saw Harry (Cobden) give Ginny’s (Destiny, stablemate) a little squeeze and I thought ‘I’m still happy here’.

“He’s done it really well in the end, a big thanks to everyone at home and all the owners. It’s amazing.

“I was told to be nice and handy, he was jumping for fun and he just winged the third (fence) down the hill.

“I thought I’d got there too soon, but Paul told me that when I turn in, to kick on no matter what so I did and he’s done it easy.”

On where the victory ranks in his burgeoning career so far, Gingell said: “It’s right up there, I can’t probably top the Grade One (on Elixir De Nutz (Clarence House at Ascot in January) yet, but it’s definitely up there.”