Nearly a year has passed since Jordan Gainford last raced on Hewick, but the 22-year-old Wexford jockey is set for a significant reunion with the horse during the upcoming Cheltenham Gold Cup. Trainer Shark Hanlon announced Tuesday his decision for Gainford to take the reins, sidelining potential riders Gavin Sheehan and Rachael Blackmore.

The appointment is a significant opportunity for Gainford, who was sidelined with a back injury during Hewick’s King George VI Chase win at Kempton this past Christmas. Since their last collaboration in the previous Gold Cup, where a fall at the second-last hurdle dashed their hopes, Gainford has watched Blackmore and Brian Hughes take his place in subsequent races. Yet, Hanlon’s confidence has been restored by Gainford’s recent comeback and successes.

Hanlon expressed his rationale, highlighting Gainford’s integral role in developing Hewick and his recent winning form as factors in this decision. Despite Sheehan’s commendable performance at Kempton, Hanlon felt it appropriate to reinstate Gainford for the prestigious race.

Hewick, acquired by Hanlon for a mere €850, is considered a long shot at 20-1 for the Gold Cup but has shown promise on soft ground. The team is optimistic for dry conditions in Gloucestershire, despite predictions of ‘good to soft’ ground for the festival’s start.

Gainford’s rise was marked by his 2021 victory aboard The Shunter in the Paddy Power Plate and his successes with Gerri Colombe. Despite a narrow miss in the Brown Advisory, he remains a key player for trainer Gordon Elliott, especially with Constitution Hill out of the Champion Hurdle, opening opportunities for Elliott’s other charges.

Elliott is eyeing a strong performance from Irish Point in the Champion Hurdle, hopeful that the conditions and track will play to the horse’s strengths against formidable competition.

With Constitution Hill’s withdrawal impacting the home team’s prospects, the festival’s anticipation builds around contenders like Sir Gino and Crebilly, highlighting the international competition’s depth.