No Panic! Skeltons Strike For Paddy Power Gold Cup Splendor

Panic Attack proved the most recent example of Dan Skelton's excellence when targeting a huge reward as she ran away from her competitors up the Cheltenham hill to win the Paddy Power Gold Cup.


Off the track for 280 days, the nine-year-old was the option of Harry Skelton from three stated runners for the stable, with Hoe Joly Smoke staying-on for 3rd and Riskintheground eventually a non-runner.


Rounding the bend on the a little reconfigured track, last year's winner Il Ridoto remained on the within with Vincenzo, while a host of others, including Panic Attack, tried to find fresher ground out broad.


Anxiety attack wins the Paddy Power Gold Cup Handicap Chase What a big that is for the Skeltons! #ITVRacing|@DSkeltonRacing|@harryskelton89 pic.twitter.com/qxwyh6I5xJ


- ITV Racing (@itvracing) November 15, 2025


This year's race was run in memory of Edward O'Grady, the last Irish trainer to win the race, with Tranquil Sea back in 2009, and Paul Nolan's Conyers Hill briefly appeared like playing a significant function in the finish for Ireland before flattening out up the hill.


Skelton requested a big leap from Panic Attack at the last and while she picked up there just marginally in front, the 6-1 shot eventually pulled 4 lengths clear of 100-30 favourite Vincenzo who stuck on for 2nd ahead of Hoe Joly Smoke and Conyers Hill for minor honours.


"When she could not make the Plate last year I thought this would be the race for her and then I was umming and ahhing over whether we got a prep face her and I'm glad we didn't in the end," stated the fitness instructor.


"My eye was actually drawn to Hoe Joly Smoke turning in due to the fact that he was getting a dream run before missing out on the last, but Anxiety attack was definitely fantastic.


Jockey Harry Skelton and trainer Dan Skelton after Panic Attack ´ s triumph (David Davies/PA)


"We had to ride her in there a bit today so it was a bit brand-new to her, however I'm chuffed to bits and Harry gave her a terrific ride.


"The group have actually done an unbelievable job to get her all set. We didn't have a run coming into this which left me worried, however I understood there was a bit left in her mark.


"I've got her late in her profession but she's a dazzling mare.


"We've been 2nd in this race a number of times and I have actually never ever left a racecourse more dissatisfied than when Spiritofthegames got beat as his owner was among our most significant supporters."


Harry Skelton in pleased state of mind (David Davies/PA)


On future strategies, he added: "She will not return in December and I have actually a couple of concepts.


"I think she is probably to go to Doncaster for the mares' chase over Christmas and then if all goes to prepare come back here for the mares' chase in the spring."


Anxiety attack's triumph signified the return of Harry Skelton's 'aeroplane' event on a weekend that might supply double happiness, with partner Bridget at home expecting the couple's 2nd kid.


"Bridget is due today and I do not understand what is occurring. I hope everything is OK and perhaps that has actually put her into labour who understands, ideally they are all great," the jockey stated.


"Everyone has actually been groaning to me and asking where the celebration has been so I believed I best provide something."