Record low British Gold Cup turnout 'disappointing' but home team can bounce back - Richard Johnson

Richard Johnson has labelled Britain’s entry for the Gold Cup as “disappointing” and “not where we want it to be” after a record low of five horses from the home nation featured among 19 potential contenders.

However, the two-time Gold Cup-winning jockey said he was encouraged by the talented novice hurdlers and chasers trained in Britain which offered hope for the future.

The Gold Cup entries are headed by dual winner Galopin Des Champs, who will bid to emulate Best Mate by completing a hat-trick in the race on March 14. Of the five horses trained in Britain, Grey Dawning is the shortest price at 33-1.