Lord Windermere will not run again this season as connections already look forward to retaining his Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup crown next year.

Trainer Jim Culloty reports the Oscar gelding in great shape after his dramatic victory in chasing’s blue riband last Friday but the eight-year-old will not be asked to run again this term.

“He came out of the race great but the decision has been taken not to run him again until next season. Were very happy with him and he’ll be trained for the Gold Cup again," said Culloty after his Prince Of Lombardy also owned by Dr Ronan Lambe and ridden by Davy Russell, had won a maiden hurdle at Thurles this afternoon.

“I’ve no plan for him but he definitely won’t go for the Hennessy again at Newbury, and something like the Kinloch Brae Chase back here at Thurles could be a nice place to start off.

“It all depends on what ground we get in the autumn as he won’t race on fast ground.”

Reflecting on what has been an amazing few days, Culloty added, “We had good craic on Sunday night and we brought the kids to the St Patrick's Day parade on Monday, with the Gold Cup trophy, and also to a point-to-point. But it was back to work on Tuesday at 6am.

“Since the Gold Cup I haven’t had a minute to myself but I’ll go away for a few days next week and switch off my phone. It’s been hectic but brilliant.”

(AM & TW)