The Cheltenham Festival is an event that always brings excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. One race that consistently delivers high-class action is the Ryanair Chase, a Grade 1 event that has quickly become a fan favourite since its inception in 2005. With its unique blend of speed and stamina, it attracts top-class horses every year, and over the years, we’ve witnessed some truly memorable performances.
Here are my personal favourite winners of the Ryanair Chase over the years – each of them leaving an indelible mark on the festival’s history.
1. Al Boum Photo (2020)
Al Boum Photo had already made a name for himself at Cheltenham with his back-to-back Gold Cup victories, but his run in the 2020 Ryanair Chase was something else entirely. Trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, Al Boum Photo put on a performance that underlined his exceptional talent and versatility. His ability to switch gears in such a competitive race showed just how class can come in all shapes and sizes – and this victory felt like a perfect stepping stone on his way to further glory in the Gold Cup.
2. Frodon (2019)
The 2019 Ryanair Chase will forever be a special memory, not just for me, but for everyone who witnessed it. Frodon’s victory, ridden by the dynamic Bryony Frost, was a triumph of grit, heart, and unyielding determination. This was a moment where the underdog triumphed, and the sheer joy on Frost’s face as they crossed the line will always be one of the most emotional moments in Cheltenham history. Frodon’s win was not just about the race itself, but also about the incredible partnership between horse and jockey – one of the most inspiring in recent years.
3. Vautour (2016)
Vautour’s victory in the 2016 Ryanair Chase is one that still sends chills down my spine. He was simply flawless that day, showcasing his exceptional jumping and blistering speed. Ridden by Ruby Walsh, the way he breezed through the race felt like a demonstration of pure class. Vautour was one of those horses who made everything look effortless, and his performance that day was the epitome of everything we love about top-level racing.
4. Dynaste (2014)
Dynaste’s triumph in the 2014 Ryanair Chase was a moment of pure class. Trained by David Pipe and ridden by Tom Scudamore, Dynaste’s victory was built on power and precision. He produced an electrifying performance, easily dispatching his rivals to secure a well-deserved victory. For me, this win stands out because it was a true display of tactical brilliance and exceptional jumping – a perfect example of the attributes that make the Cheltenham Festival so special.
5. Sizing Europe (2011)
Before his Cheltenham glory, Sizing Europe was already an established name, but his win in the 2011 Ryanair Chase cemented his legacy. This was a horse who always seemed to find his best form at Cheltenham, and that was especially evident here. Sizing Europe’s victory was not just about his talent, but his incredible consistency, and it was a fantastic reward for connections who had worked so hard to get him to the festival in peak condition.
The Ryanair Chase has seen some incredible moments over the years, and these wins, in particular, stand out as some of my absolute favourites. Whether it’s the underdog story, the raw power, or the perfect combinations of speed and stamina, the race never fails to deliver.
I can’t wait to see which future champion will leave their mark on the Ryanair Chase in the coming years – but for now, I’ll continue to relive these amazing moments.
