Walsh retains Festival crown
Ruby Walsh was once again crowned the Cheltenham Festival’s leading jockey as he signed off this year’s showpiece meeting with five winners.
Walsh, the winning-most jockey in Festival history, started off the week in tremendous style with victories aboard Al Ferof and Quevega supplementing the Irishman’s first Champion Hurdle success on Hurricane Fly.
He was on the mark again on Wednesday as he guided Big Buck’s to a historic third successive World Hurdle title.
And while out of luck on Thursday, the County Hurdle success of Final Approach capped yet another hugely successful Festival.
“It’s been a great week. It’s what you work for and what you hope for, especially winning the championship events,” said Walsh.
“I’m just very lucky to ride for top trainers like Paul (Nicholls) and Willie (Mullins).”
Mullins was named top Festival trainer with four winners.
