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'Tiger Roll's victory left me on top of the world'

Jockey Keith Donoghue, 24, takes our weekly grilling

Keith Donoghue with some of the sponsor's whisky after winning the Glenfarclas Cross-Country Chase
Keith Donoghue with some of the sponsor's whisky after winning the Glenfarclas Cross-Country ChaseCredit: John Grossick Racing

What advice would you give your ten-year-old self?
To be stricter with my diet when I was younger and not to take things for granted. When I was younger I probably got things a bit too easy. I should have listened to the advice I was given and worked harder.

Looking back on it now, how did it feel to win on Tiger Roll at the Cheltenham Festival?
It felt unreal and better than I could have expected it to – I really felt on top of the world. That moment meant so much to me and I was quite emotional as I crossed the line. After missing Labaik winning the Supreme Novices' Hurdle last year I didn’t want to see anyone or even leave the house. This year wherever I go people are congratulating me and saying "well done", so it’s been brilliant.

You have admitted keeping on top of your weight has sometimes been a struggle. Does last week make it all worthwhile and are you determined to keep riding for as long as you can?
Yes, it has been a struggle but days like last week definitely make it worthwhile. They make me want more days like that and I’m going to keep riding and keep trying to have good winners for as long as I can.

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