See also » Al Boum Photo delivers Gold-en result for Willie Mullins
I’ve got used to the disappointment of finishing second. I thought Bellshill would take a lot of beating, but Ruby (Walsh) wasn’t happy with him and pulled him up early. To have three of the four runners out of the race before they came to the second-last first time round — I was depending on one. Every time I looked at Paul, his body language told me was very happy and the horse was relaxed. When he came over the last, I just looked at the winning post and thought nothing would come and get him unless he stops or runs out or something like that. I was here when my dad (Paddy Mullins) won with Dawn Run and I didn’t get home for two days. I sort of resigned myself to never winning a Gold Cup. Certain jockeys may never win the feature race of their lives, like the Grand National or the Champion Hurdle. I thought maybe I’m not going to be lucky. W P Mullins, trainer

Al Boum Photo (FR), Bristol De Mai (FR) and Kemboy (FR) wore earplugs throughout the race.

Might Bite (IRE) was pulled up quickly after the second last fence as the rider felt something was amiss with the gelding, thereby interfering with Yala Enki (FR), placed seventh, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.

Following the race, Ruby Walsh reported that he pulled Bellshill (IRE) up after making a bad mistake.

Nico de Boinville reported that Might Bite (IRE), which was pulled up, stopped quickly; the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Davy Russell reported that Presenting Percy (GB), which started favourite and finished eighth, was never travelling following an early mistake and his saddle slipped mid-race; the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination, during routine testing, revealed the gelding had finished lame on its right hind.

The Veterinary Officer further reported that Elegant Escape (IRE), placed sixth, lost its left fore shoe and Shattered Love (IRE), unplaced, had post-race ataxia.

For 5yo+ who are allotted a rating of 130 or more by the BHA Head of Handicapping following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation. Horses who are not qualified for a rating in GB, IRE or FR may also be entered & such horses may be eligible providing the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse's racecourse performances up to and including the day prior to confirmation would merit a minimum rating of 130 (the decision of the BHA Head of Handicapping shall be final).
Weights - 5yo 11st 8lb, 6yo+ 11st 10lb.
Allowances - Mares 7lb