Victoria Pendleton’s hopes of making this month’s Cheltenham Festival have received a major boost.
The two-time Olympic cycling champion claimed her first-ever National Hunt victory with a win on 5-4 favourite Pacha Du Polder in a hunter chase at Wincanton - finishing 29 lengths clear of Big Fella Thanks, who was fourth in the 2010 Grand National.
Pendleton’s swap of saddles has been controversial with former Champion Jockey John Francome labelling her an ‘accident waiting to happen’ after a high-profile fall in her last appearance under rules at Fakenham.
But the 35-year old has remained steadfast in her ambition to ride in the Foxhunter Chase at the Festival, the amateur version of the showpiece Gold Cup.
She’s been supported by Pacha Du Polder’s owner Andy Stewart, legendary jockey Sir Anthony McCoy and top trainer Paul Nicholls, who will now make the ultimate decision about her suitability to appear at Prestbury Park in just over a fortnight.
But this race at Wincanton was make-or-break for her Festival ambitions and, at least, owner and trainer now have something to consider before making their final call.
In addition, the market reacted positively to Pendleton’s performance, trimming Pacha Du Polder’s odds from their pre-race mark of 33/1 to 22/1.
“This just feels fantastic,” said Pendleton, who retired from cycling after winning’s women’s keirin gold at London 2012.
“I just wanted to get around and give him the ride he deserves, because he’s a lovely horse and I feel honoured and lucky to ride such a wonderful animal.
“This sport is full of thrills and spills. When I started this challenge people told me I’d fall off but it’s a small price to pay for the joy of riding a thoroughbred racehorse.
“I love this sport and feel such joy driving to the yard in the morning. This feeling, it’s like you are flying, it’s a very special and exclusive feeling. I certainly won’t be leaving this sport anytime soon.”
Sportsbeat 2016