Paddy Power Gold Cup 2024

The Paddy Power Gold Cup was first run in 1960 with Mackeson as the sponsor, continuing until 1995. Murphy’s took over sponsorship from 1996 to 1999, followed by Thomas Pink in 2000. Paddy Power first sponsored the race in 2003, a partnership that lasted until 2015. Bet Victor sponsored the event from 2016, with Paddy Power returning as the sponsor in 2020.

Below, you will find all the information you need to bet on the Paddy Power Gold Cup. Our expert tipsters will provide their top picks the day before the race. You can also gain key insights on the runners and riders through our Paddy Power Gold Cup racecard and read our essential betting trends to help you find a winner.

Paddy Power Gold Cup Overview

The Paddy Power Gold Cup is a prestigious race held during the November meeting at Cheltenham, covering a distance of two-and-a-half miles. This Class 1 Premier Handicap is open to horses aged four and older. Last year’s winner earned over £90,000 in prize money.

The race takes place on the Old Course, featuring 16 fences. While finding the winner is important, it’s also worth noting horses that finish further down the field, as they may perform well later in the season. For example, Unexpected Party, who placed fifth in this race last year, went on to win the Jonny Henderson Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival.

Paddy Power Gold Cup Betting Trends and Statistics

Course and distance experience is beneficial, but older horses (six years and up) have had an edge in recent years, with the last five-year-old winner being Caid Du Berlais in 2014. Irish horses haven’t dominated this race, with only one win in the last two decades, thanks to Tranquil Sea in 2009. Paul Nicholls is a trainer to watch, having won the race three times since 2012 with Al Ferof, Caid Du Berlais, and Stage Star last year.

Other multiple-time winning trainers include Nigel Twiston-Davies and Jonjo O’Neill. Irish-bred horses have claimed victory in three of the last five runnings. Notably, horses carrying 11 stone or more have won the last three editions, suggesting the race’s quality is increasing. Trainers such as Jamie Snowden, Sue Smith, Evan Williams, and Kerry Lee have also seen recent success.

On the flip side, trainers like Nicky Henderson (0-28), Philip Hobbs (0-16), and Venetia Williams (0-14) have struggled in this race. Some standout horses have won it more than once, including Cyfor Malta in 1998 and 2002. Bradbury Star also claimed back-to-back victories for Josh Gifford in 1993 and 1994. The race typically lasts around five minutes on good ground, with soft conditions adding about 30 seconds to the time.

Paddy Power Gold Cup History

The race began in 1960 with Mackeson as the sponsor, continuing until 1995. Murphy’s took over sponsorship from 1996 to 1999, followed by Thomas Pink in 2000. Paddy Power first sponsored the race in 2003, a partnership that lasted until 2015. Bet Victor sponsored the event from 2016, with Paddy Power returning as the sponsor in 2020.

Paddy Power Gold Cup Winners