Galopin Des Champs: HRI’s 2024 Horse of the Year
The prestigious title of Ireland’s 2024 Horse of the Year has been claimed by the dual-Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Galopin Des Champs. This magnificent horse, trained by the renowned Willie Mullins, outshone competitors such as Derby hero City Of Troy and star stayer Kyprios to secure this esteemed honor at the Horse Racing Ireland awards held in Dublin on Monday night.
Galopin Des Champs’s Remarkable Journey
Before achieving back-to-back victories at the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March, Galopin Des Champs showcased his exceptional talent by triumphing in the Irish Gold Cup and delivering a stunning performance at the Savills Chase in Leopardstown last Christmas, winning by an impressive 23 lengths. His upcoming appearance at the same race this month promises an exciting showdown with stable companion Fact To File, who emerged victorious at the John Durkan event in Punchestown last month, where Galopin Des Champs finished third.
The Aga Khan’s Honorary Recognition
In addition to Galopin Des Champs’s outstanding achievement, the 22nd edition of the HRI awards celebrated the Aga Khan’s invaluable contributions to the horse racing industry. Nicky Hartery, the chairman of HRI, expressed deep gratitude towards the Aga Khan, emphasizing his significant impact on Irish horse racing. Hartery praised the Aga Khan for his vision, dedication, and generosity, highlighting his profound influence on the sport and the community.
Recognition of Excellence in Horse Racing
The ceremony at the Mansion House also acknowledged the exceptional talent of trainers Willie Mullins and Aidan O’Brien, who received the National Hunt and Flat awards respectively. Fairyhouse was recognized as the racecourse of the year for 2024, following a public vote that garnered nearly 10,000 participants. JJ Slevin’s remarkable ride at the Galway Hurdle on Nurburgring, trained by Joseph O’Brien, earned him the coveted Ride of the Year award, selected through an online poll with over 4,000 votes.
The 2024 Horse Racing Ireland awards not only celebrated extraordinary accomplishments in the sport but also highlighted the profound impact of individuals and organizations on the racing community. As enthusiasts eagerly await Galopin Des Champs’s upcoming races and witness the stellar performances of other talented individuals in the industry, the legacy of excellence and dedication in Irish horse racing continues to thrive, shaping the future of the sport for generations to come.