No Panic! Skeltons Strike For Paddy Power Gold Cup Glory
Anxiety attack proved the most current example of Dan Skelton's quality when targeting a big reward as she fled 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 choice of Harry Skelton from three declared runners for the steady, with Hoe Joly Smoke staying-on for third and Riskintheground eventually a non-runner.
Rounding the bend on the slightly reconfigured track, in 2015's winner Il Ridoto remained on the inside with Vincenzo, while a host of others, consisting of Anxiety attack, looked for fresher ground out large.
Panic Attack wins the Paddy Power Gold Cup Handicap Chase What a big success that is for the Skeltons! #ITVRacing|@DSkeltonRacing|@harryskelton89 pic.twitter.com/qxwyh6I5xJ
- ITV Racing (@itvracing) November 15, 2025
This was run in memory of Edward O'Grady, the last Irish fitness instructor to win the race, with Tranquil Sea back in 2009, and Paul Nolan's Conyers Hill briefly appeared like playing a major role in the finish for Ireland before flattening out up the hill.
Skelton requested for a big leap from Anxiety attack at the last and while she selected up there simply marginally in front, the 6-1 shot eventually pulled four lengths clear of 100-30 favourite Vincenzo who stuck on for 2nd ahead of Hoe Joly Smoke and Conyers Hill for small honours.
"When she couldn't 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 encounter her and I'm glad we didn't in the end," said the fitness instructor.
"My eye was in fact drawn to Hoe Joly Smoke turning in due to the fact that he was getting a dream run before missing out on the last, however Panic Attack was absolutely dazzling.
Jockey Harry Skelton and trainer Dan Skelton after Anxiety Attack ´ s victory (David Davies/PA)
"We needed 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 trip.
"The team have done an unbelievable task to get her ready. We didn't have a run entering into this which left me anxious, but I understood there was a bit left in her mark.
"I have actually got her late in her career however she's a dazzling mare.
"We have actually been 2nd in this race a couple of times and I've never left a racecourse more dissatisfied than when Spiritofthegames got beat as his owner was among our most significant advocates."
Harry Skelton in jubilant mood (David Davies/PA)
On future plans, he added: "She won't return in December and I've a number of ideas.
"I believe she is most likely to go to Doncaster for the mares' chase over Christmas and after that if all goes to plan returned here for the mares' chase in the spring."
Anxiety attack's success indicated the return of Harry Skelton's 'aeroplane' celebration on a weekend that might offer double joy, with spouse Bridget at home anticipating the couple's second kid.
"Bridget is due today and I do not understand what is taking place. I hope whatever is OK and perhaps that has put her into labour who understands, ideally they are all excellent," the jockey stated.
"Everyone has actually been groaning to me and asking where the event has actually been so I thought I best provide them something."