Substitute Jockey Tristan Durrell Steals the Show at Newbury
In a remarkable turn of events at Newbury, jockey Tristan Durrell emerged as the hero of the hour, guiding Panic Attack to a 16-1 victory in the prestigious Coral Gold Cup. This triumphant win provided a brilliant consolation for trainer Dan Skelton, who had earlier experienced the dramatic exit of his other contender, The New Lion, at Newcastle.
Newcastle Drama Sets the Stage for Newbury Redemption
The day had begun with significant disappointment for the Skelton team. With stable jockey Harry Skelton at Newcastle to partner The New Lion in the BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle, hopes were high. Those hopes were dashed, however, when the horse fell late in the race, a contest that also saw the favourite, Constitution Hill, unseat his rider. This double misfortune at Newcastle shifted all attention to Newbury, where Tristan Durrell had been called up to ride the stable's other major hope.
Durrell, now the centre of attention, was aboard the mare Panic Attack, who was attempting the extended 3 mile 2 furlong trip for the first time. Carrying a 4lb penalty for her recent win in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham just a fortnight prior, the task was formidable. The challenge was slightly eased when the 4-1 favourite, Myretown, fell at the ninth fence, but the victory was ultimately secured by a superb performance from both horse and jockey.
A Phenomenal Ride and an Unbelievable Result
The pair secured a ready victory over Three Card Brag (25-1), The Changing Man (8-1), and Gorgeous Tom (16-1). An elated Durrell expressed his disbelief after the race, stating he felt pressure to deliver a better result for the team after the Newcastle setback. "I cannot believe it," Durrell said. "It's an unbelievable performance from the mare and brave of Dan to put her in this."
Trainer Dan Skelton was effusive in his praise for the substitute jockey. "Tristan gave her an absolutely phenomenal ride," Skelton declared, highlighting that the win added £142,375 to his prize money total, further cementing his position at the top of the 2025-6 trainers' table. He hailed Durrell as "the most improved rider I have anything to do with" and a testament to the rewards of hard work.
Reflecting on Panic Attack's performance, Skelton admired her bravery to win such a demanding race so soon after her Cheltenham exploits. "The horse took off at the last, she was brilliant," he said, praising her incredible effort. This victory not only highlights the depth of talent in the Skelton yard but also marks a significant career milestone for the in-form Tristan Durrell.
