Langer Dan turns into first twin winner of Cheltenham Coral Cup

Langer Dan created historical past on the Cheltenham Pageant right this moment (13 March) by turning into the primary twin winner of the Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle, repeating his 2023 success below Harry Skelton for coach Dan Skelton and proprietor Colm Donlon.

Harry Skelton stated: “It feels sensible. He’s a beautiful little horse and he travelled rather well and it was only a query of me probably not letting him go too quickly, however he’s magic. He’s not very massive, however he’s been excellent.”

Harry defined that the eight-year-old by Ocovango has had some points since profitable this race final yr.

“He simply hadn’t been firing like we actually needed him to, however within the final month, we’ve managed to get him out on to our grass gallops. That’s actually turned him on and actually introduced out the advance in him. Dan’s accomplished a improbable job, and Amber Blyth, our head woman, who takes care of him has accomplished an impressive job with him all yr.

“There’s no hiding what Cheltenham is – it’s a really, crucial 4 days of our calendar and our Olympics. To have a winner is particular.”

Langer Dan’s coach Mr Skelton stated: “That’s exceptional actually, and all credit score to the horse. I’ve by no means been prouder of a outcome than this. We now have some massive winners and Grade Ones and the whole lot else, however I’ve by no means been prouder of a outcome than this as a result of what folks don’t know is that he had a surgical procedure after profitable this final yr.

“He had a horrible winter and bled on one event. We gastroscoped him and located ulcers, and it was a large group effort to get him proper.

“He received’t prepare at our primary yard as a result of he’s a unusual little buyer and simply received’t take part. Amber runs our second yard and after we labored him on Saturday I informed her to seek out the slowest horse we’ve bought and one way or the other beat him on the gallops. He solely received by a head, which simply reveals you what he’s like. He’s just a little character, however what a personality.

“He’s bought his personal clock and trains himself. He simply doesn’t play ball within the winter – he’s a nightmare.”

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H&H options, racing and point-to-point editor

Gemma is an skilled journalist, having been a part of the H&H group since 2014, who’s captivated with all equestrian sports activities, together with racing and point-to-pointing. She has loved using out for prime trainers Nicky Henderson and Charlie Appleby and took half in a charity Flat race at in August 2018. Gemma’s reporting abilities have taken her to quite a few five-star occasions round Britain and Europe, in addition to European championships.