The Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup has long been established as one of the most prestigious races in the National Hunt calendar. Now in its fiftieth year, the sport’s leading pre-Christmas event is steeped in tradition and has been witness to the success of some legendary names. In the early years, names such as Kerstin, Mill House, Rondetto and Arkle took the honours while more recently Teeton Mill, Suny Bay and the wonderful One Man have taken the limelight. Run at Cheltenham for its first three years, the race moved to Newbury in 1960. The Berkshire racecourse is regarded as one of the finest steeplechase courses in the country and is favoured by many esteemed trainers and jockeys – the great Fulke Walwyn sent out the Hennessy winner an incredible seven times – while names such as Taaffe, Mellor, Francome, Scudamore and Walsh enrich the winning-jockeys’ list. With a foreword by Paul Nicholls, and colourfully illustrated throughout, this is a celebration of this captivating event.
Delve into the rich history and captivating stories behind one of National Hunt racing's most esteemed events with "The Hennessy Gold Cup" by Stewart Peters. This beautifully presented First Edition hardcover celebrates the first 50 years of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, a pre-Christmas highlight steeped in tradition and renowned for showcasing legendary equine and human talent. More than just a race, the Hennessy Gold Cup is a crucible where champions are forged. Peters expertly chronicles the evolution of the race, from its early years at Cheltenham to its permanent home at Newbury Racecourse, widely considered one of the finest steeplechase courses in Great Britain. Experience the thrill of iconic victories through vivid descriptions and captivating anecdotes, bringing to life the triumphs of legendary horses like Arkle, whose commanding presence dominated the racing world, and other notable winners such as Kerstin, Mill House, Rondetto, Teeton Mill, Suny Bay, and the popular One Man. Peters doesn't just focus on the horses; he shines a light on the influential trainers and jockeys who have shaped the Hennessy Gold Cup's legacy. Discover the secrets of Fulke Walwyn's unparalleled success, having trained an astonishing seven Hennessy winners. Relive the brilliance of legendary jockeys like Taaffe, Mellor, Francome, Scudamore, and Walsh as they navigated the challenging Newbury course to claim victory. Their stories of skill, determination, and partnership with their equine counterparts add a layer of depth and emotion to the narrative. This edition, published by Tempus in 2006, boasts a foreword by the multiple champion trainer, Paul Nicholls, offering a contemporary perspective on the race's enduring appeal. The book is richly illustrated throughout, showcasing stunning photographs and artwork that capture the drama and excitement of the Hennessy Gold Cup. Each turn of the page evokes the atmosphere of the racecourse, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and emotions of this prestigious event. Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of National Hunt, "The Hennessy Gold Cup" offers a fascinating and informative journey through the history of this iconic race. It's a must-have addition to any racing library, providing a lasting tribute to the horses, jockeys, trainers, and passionate fans who have made the Hennessy Gold Cup a true highlight of the racing calendar. Discover the stories behind the glory, the challenges overcome, and the legends created in this definitive celebration of a racing institution. A perfect gift for any lover of horse racing and British sporting history. Weighing approximately 500 grams and spanning 192 pages, this book provides a detailed look into the Hennessy Gold Cup.