Manchester United icon Paul Scholes enjoyed a successful first day at Cheltenham on Tuesday, securing significant winnings.
The former midfielder, aged 50, placed a £2,500 bet on Kopek Des Bordes to triumph in the opening race in Gloucestershire.
Having placed a £2,500 wager at even odds, Scholes collected a total of £5,000.
Scholes hinted at further participation, posting on Instagram: “Here we go then…”
In other news from race five, bettors were astonished as the heavily favored Constitution Hill and State Man both fell.
Constitution Hill’s fall occurred as he was moving into a promising position in the Champion Hurdle.
Meanwhile, State Man, despite taking a considerable lead, also fell just before the finish.
This allowed Golden Ace to seize victory at 25-1, defeating Brighterdaysahead, who he had previously beaten at last year’s Festival.
Nicky Henderson later reassured that Constitution Hill was unharmed, stating to ITV Sport: “He seems fine. He’s very bright and breezy.”
Willie Mullins commented on State Man’s fall: “It’s part of racing. These are the highs and lows. I am just glad he is okay.”
Winning jockey Lorcan Williams expressed his excitement: “I’m lost for words. This is by far the best day of my life. It’s the kind of moment you dream about as a child.”
“I hope Constitution Hill and State Man are alright – they are iconic horses.”
“But Golden Ace is fantastic. She always performs, and credit to owner Ian Gosden for choosing this race over the Mares’ Hurdle.”
“I’m not complaining now, I’m just a small part of the team and thrilled to be involved.”
“My agent advised me to watch Constitution Hill. When he dropped out, I aimed for second place. We were there to capitalize on any opportunities.”
