WHAT sadness greeted the news of the untimely death of the dual Grade 1 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs this week, just days after the announcement of his retirement from racing at the age of 10, and with a roll of honour that was a credit to all his connections.

The French-bred winner of 15 races, all but one of which were gained in the care of Willie Mullins, Galopin Des Champs firmly established himself as a great favourite with racegoers, brought huge joy to his owners, Audrey and Greg Turley, was cared for with great love by Adam Connolly, and was ridden to victory in all but one of his Irish and British wins by Paul Townend.