The Cheltenham Gold Cup is one of the most prestigious races in National Hunt racing, but behind every legendary horse is a jockey who guided them to victory. The Gold Cup is not just about talent—it demands skill, bravery, and tactical genius. Over the years, certain jockeys have etched their names into racing history, delivering unforgettable performances on Cheltenham’s biggest stage.
Here’s a look at some of the greatest jockeys who left their mark on the Cheltenham Gold Cup, from past icons to modern legends.
1. Pat Taaffe – The Man Behind Arkle’s Dominance
Few jockeys are as closely associated with Gold Cup greatness as Pat Taaffe, who partnered with the legendary Arkle to dominate the race in the 1960s.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Four-time Gold Cup winner (1957, 1964, 1965, 1966).
- Won three consecutive Gold Cups on Arkle, one of the greatest steeplechasers of all time.
- Known for his tactical intelligence and near-perfect judgment of pace.
His relationship with Arkle was one of the most dominant jockey-horse partnerships in history, and to this day, his name is synonymous with Gold Cup greatness.
2. Tommy Carberry – The Jockey Who Stunned the Racing World
Tommy Carberry is best remembered for his historic win on L’Escargot, the Irish-trained underdog who defied expectations in the 1970 and 1971 Gold Cups.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Won back-to-back Gold Cups on L’Escargot, an outsider who surprised the racing world.
- Later became the only person to win the Gold Cup both as a jockey and as a trainer, training Bobbyjo to win the 1999 Grand National.
- Known for his ability to get the best out of his horses in tough conditions.
Carberry’s Gold Cup wins proved that determination and patience can lead to greatness on the biggest stage.
3. Richard Dunwoody – The Ice-Cold Nerve of a Champion
Richard Dunwoody’s name is forever linked to Desert Orchid, one of the most beloved horses in National Hunt history. Their 1989 Cheltenham Gold Cup victory remains one of the most iconic moments in racing.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Won the 1989 Gold Cup on Desert Orchid, overcoming heavy ground conditions that didn’t suit the horse.
- Known for his fearless riding style and ability to handle pressure.
- One of the most consistent jockeys of his generation, with over 1,800 career wins.
His bravery in the saddle and ability to push his mounts to their limits made him one of the most respected jockeys of all time.
4. A.P. McCoy – The Ultimate Champion Who Conquered Cheltenham
Sir Anthony “A.P.” McCoy is widely regarded as one of the greatest jockeys in racing history. With over 4,300 career wins, he dominated the sport for two decades, and his Gold Cup win in 2012 was one of his most emotional victories.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Won the 2012 Cheltenham Gold Cup on Synchronised, a horse known for its staying power rather than natural speed.
- Had 14 attempts at the Gold Cup before finally winning, proving his persistence and dedication.
- Retired in 2015 as a 20-time Champion Jockey, an achievement unlikely to be matched.
McCoy’s never-say-die attitude made him one of the most beloved figures in racing, and his Gold Cup victory was a fitting reward for his remarkable career.
5. Ruby Walsh – The Master of Cheltenham
Ruby Walsh is Cheltenham’s most successful jockey, and his Gold Cup record speaks for itself. Known for his tactical intelligence and ice-cold composure, Walsh was the go-to rider for some of the greatest National Hunt trainers.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Won the Gold Cup twice—on Kauto Star (2007, 2009).
- Partnered with Willie Mullins and Paul Nicholls, forming some of the most dominant trainer-jockey partnerships in history.
- One of the most successful jockeys in Cheltenham Festival history, with 59 career wins at the festival.
Walsh’s partnership with Kauto Star gave us one of the greatest Gold Cup moments ever—when Kauto Star reclaimed his crown in 2009, becoming the first horse to regain the title after losing it.
6. Nico de Boinville – The Novice Who Shocked the Gold Cup
While not as decorated as some of the legends on this list, Nico de Boinville’s 2015 Cheltenham Gold Cup win on Coneygree will always be remembered as a moment of racing history.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Rode Coneygree to victory in 2015, making him the first novice to win the Gold Cup in over 40 years.
- Proved that a young jockey with a fearless approach could take on the best and win.
- Has since established himself as one of Britain’s top jockeys, partnering with Nicky Henderson’s stable.
His bold front-running tactics on Coneygree defied expectations and showed that sometimes, taking a risk can lead to greatness.
7. Paul Townend – The Modern-Day Gold Cup Star
Paul Townend has stepped out of the shadow of Ruby Walsh to become one of the top jockeys of the modern era, riding multiple Cheltenham Gold Cup winners.
Why He’s a Gold Cup Legend:
- Won the Gold Cup twice with Al Boum Photo (2019, 2020).
- Became Willie Mullins’ number-one jockey, following in the footsteps of Ruby Walsh.
- Helped Al Boum Photo become the first back-to-back Gold Cup winner since Best Mate.
