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Bryony Frost: I have multiple plans for riding Frodon in the Cheltenham Gold Cup

An emotional Bryony Frost after Frodon's win in the King George VI ChaseKempton 26.12.20 Pic: Edward Whitaker/Racing Post
Bryony Frost: has a few plans for Frodon when the pair go for Cheltenham Gold Cup gloryCredit: Edward Whitaker

Bryony Frost and Frodon leading from start to finish has become a familiar sight in big races, but the most successful female rider in the history of British jump racing has said that she is aware of the need for greater versatility as she looks ahead to the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup in March.

Frost was talking to the Racing Post as part of a major interview in Sunday's newspaper, in which she emotionally discusses the recent revelations that her treatment in the weighing room is the subject of an ongoing BHA investigation.

However, the 25-year-old has also had plenty to smile about in recent times, not least Frodon's sensational all-the-way win the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day, which has put him firmly in contention for the Gold Cup.

"To ride Frodon in the Gold Cup for Paul Nicholls would be unreal," said Frost.

"I won't be concentrating on the fact it's one of the biggest races I could ever ride in. I'll be concentrating on the fact it's three and a quarter miles around Cheltenham, a track where Frodon has produced some of his best performances.

Frodon (right): won the King George in December
Frodon (right): won the King George in DecemberCredit: Edward Whitaker

"I'll be thinking of all the things that have worked and haven't worked for us at Cheltenham. I'll try to put it all together in my head and then come up with multiple plans, so there isn't one thing that surprises us.

"I've never ridden in a Gold Cup but it sure looks like a relentless battle. The pace will be strong because the horses who run in the Gold Cup are the best of the best. They can near enough go top gear all the way."

Frodon is currently a best-priced 16-1 for the Gold Cup behind 7-2 favourite Al Boum Photo, who will bid to win the race for the third year in a row.

Talking up Frodon's chances, Frost added: "He gave away ground by jumping left at every fence in the King George, yet he still won with pricked ears and a smile. Yes, we were able to run the race the way we wanted, but we were hitting some pretty high speeds while always being in our comfort zone.

"He had the pace to make the running in a Ryanair Chase, so he has speed, but I also don't think it's now as easy to question his stamina."


Read more:

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Read more from Bryony Frost in the Big Read, available to members from 6pm on Saturday or in Sunday's Racing Post newspaper. Join Members' Club here.


Lee MottersheadSenior writer

Published on 15 January 2021inNews

Last updated 11:16, 15 January 2021

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