Ruby Walsh is set to take over on former Gold Cup hero, Long Run, for the first time in Sunday’s Grand Steeple Chase de Paris at Auteuil due to a French betting rule that rules out Amateur Sam Waley Cohen.
It has been the subject of discussion on a number of occasions recently that Waley Cohen would be unable to ride his father’s Long Run as the French Blue Ribband was likely to form part of the Quinte Bet on Sunday which forbids amateur riders from taking part in the race.
This will be the first time in 20 runs, that Waley Cohen will not partner Long Run and despite the owner saying that he may not run without his regular rider, the horse was reported to in great form and couldn’t miss the race.
Speaking to the Racing Post on Friday morning, Robert Waley Cohen commented; ‘’ The horse is in great form, he has got to go and run and it is just really disappointing and a shame that Sam can’t be on him.
“The horse deserves the chance to go and win this race, which I think will suit him really well. Ruby is a superlative jockey and I am sure he will do a great job.”
Ruby Walsh, who also rides Diakali for Willie Mullins in Auteuil’s Prix La Barka on Sunday, also said; “Long Run has won three out of four races over fences at Auteuil. It’s not a ride to turn down,”
Since joining the Nicky Henderson yard, Long Run has run 20 times, each time with Sam Waley Cohen on board. Sunday’s race will provide Long Run with his first new partner since Guillaume Macaire last rode the horse four and a half years ago.
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