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The Dream Come True: Kopek Des Bordes Wins Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
Victory Jubilation |
Fermoy’s Charles McCarthy couldn’t believe his ears when asked how he felt after witnessing his horse, Kopek Des Bordes, clinch the Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at the opening race of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival. His jubilant response? “Did you ever hear of cloud nine? Is there a place above it?” |
Willie Mullins’ Training Triumph |
The Willie Mullins-trained gelding, ridden by jockey Paul Townend, started the race as the 4-6 favorite and dominated the field with a stunning performance. |
Owner & Sons Shine |
Charles McCarthy, chairman of the 18-branch McCarthy Insurance Group, co-owns Kopek Des Bordes with his sons, CJ, James, David, and Andrew. After the race, he told The Echo that he and his sons were ecstatic with the win, stating, “This is the biggest win we’ve ever had. To win at Cheltenham is a dream come true, and the dream isn’t over yet.” |
Emotional Hurdle for Horses and Riders |
Jockey Paul Townend’s victory lap wasn’t just a celebration, it was also a tribute. As he crossed the line, Townend pointed to the armband riders wore in memory of Michael O’Sullivan, who had won the race in 2023 and passed away last month following a fall. The victory was also emotionally charged for McCarthy, who has successfully battled kidney cancer and undergone surgery. |
A Triumph of Resilience and Celebration |
Speaking about the journey, McCarthy recounted his cancer struggles and highlighted the significance of the win. “It’s a personal triumph. Having faced and defeated cancer, this victory is even more meaningful.” He vowed that the celebrations would continue but promised a memorable party was on the horizon for when they all returned to Fermoy, adding, “Sure, when did we ever need an excuse to have a party?” |