No Panic! Skeltons Strike For Paddy Power Gold Cup Splendor

Panic Attack proved the most current example of Dan Skelton's excellence when targeting a big reward as she fled from her rivals 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 declared runners for the steady, with Hoe Joly Smoke staying-on for 3rd and Riskintheground ultimately a non-runner.


the bend on the slightly reconfigured track, in 2015's winner Il Ridoto remained on the within with Vincenzo, while a host of others, including Anxiety attack, looked for fresher ground out broad.


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 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 looked like playing a major role in the finish for Ireland before flattening out up the hill.


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


"When she could not make the Plate last year I believed this would be the race for her and after that I was umming and ahhing over whether we got a prep run into her and I'm thankful we didn't in the end," said the trainer.


"My eye was really drawn to Hoe Joly Smoke turning in because he was getting a dream run before missing the last, but Anxiety attack was definitely dazzling.


Jockey Harry Skelton and fitness instructor Dan Skelton after Panic Attack ´ s success (David Davies/PA)


"We needed to ride her in there a bit today so it was a bit new to her, but I'm chuffed to bits and Harry gave her a fantastic trip.


"The group have actually done an astounding task to get her ready. We didn't have a run entering this which left me nervous, but I knew there was a bit left in her mark.


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


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


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


On future plans, he included: "She will not come back in December and I have actually a number of ideas.


"I believe she is more than likely to go to Doncaster for the mares' chase over Christmas and then if all goes to prepare returned here for the mares' chase in the spring."


Anxiety attack's success signified the return of Harry Skelton's 'aeroplane' celebration on a weekend that could provide double delight, with wife Bridget in your home expecting the couple's 2nd child.


"Bridget is due today and I don't know what is taking place. I hope everything is OK and perhaps that has actually put her into labour who knows, ideally they are all excellent," the jockey stated.


"Everyone has been groaning to me and asking where the event has been so I believed I finest provide them something."