No Panic! Skeltons Strike For Paddy Power Gold Cup Magnificence

Anxiety attack proved the most current example of Dan Skelton's quality when targeting a big reward as she ran away 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 3 declared runners for the steady, with Hoe Joly Smoke staying-on for 3rd and Riskintheground eventually a non-runner.


Rounding the bend on the slightly reconfigured track, last year'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.


Anxiety attack wins the Paddy Power Gold Cup Handicap Chase What a huge 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 fitness instructor to win the race, with Tranquil Sea back in 2009, and Conyers Hill briefly appeared like playing a significant role in the finish for Ireland before flattening out up the hill.


Skelton requested a huge leap from Anxiety attack at the last and while she got there just marginally in front, the 6-1 shot ultimately pulled four lengths clear of 100-30 preferred Vincenzo who stuck on for 2nd ahead of Hoe Joly Smoke and Conyers Hill for minor honours.


"When she couldn't make the Plate last year I believed 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 thankful we didn't in the end," stated the trainer.


"My eye was really drawn to Hoe Joly Smoke kipping down due to the fact that he was getting a dream run before missing out on the last, but Panic Attack was absolutely dazzling.


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 new to her, but I'm chuffed to bits and Harry offered her a great trip.


"The team have actually done an astounding task 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 have actually got her late in her profession but she's a brilliant mare.


"We have actually been second in this race a couple of times and I have actually never left a racecourse more disappointed than when Spiritofthegames got beat as his owner was one of our greatest advocates."


Harry Skelton in pleased mood (David Davies/PA)


On future plans, he included: "She won't return in December and I've a couple of ideas.


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


Anxiety attack's triumph signalled the return of Harry Skelton's 'aeroplane' event on a weekend that could supply double happiness, with wife Bridget at home anticipating the couple's second child.


"Bridget is due today and I do not know what is happening. I hope whatever is OK and perhaps that has put her into labour who knows, hopefully they are all good," the jockey said.


"Everyone has been groaning to me and asking where the celebration has actually been so I thought I best offer them something."