Legendary ref scolds “lazy” Paul Nicholls over Cheltenham Gold Cup record
Nigel Owens was used to laying down the law as a world-renowned rugby union referee.
When the Welshman blew the final whistle on his 17-year professional career at the end of 2020 he had officiated at more Test matches than anyone else and was widely regarded as one of the greatest referees of all time. Demand for his services off the field has included an approach from the makers of the BBC reboot of Gladiators.
On the pitch Owens was remembered for his lectures of players who stepped out of line. And he was issuing light-hearted reprimands at Cheltenham when he visited the historic track to do some filming for the Jockey Club ahead of the Cheltenham Festival.
Owens ticks off jockeys Harry Cobden and Johnny Burke for playing rugby in the parade ring, lectures racecourse staff and gets betting advice from a 'TMO'.
Nicholls has won 14 jumps trainers’ championships and lifted the Cheltenham Gold Cup four times with legendary horses See More Business, Kauto Star (twice) and Denman.
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Nevertheless Owens tells him: “Four Cheltenham Gold Cups, we know you can do it. That’s excellent.”
He then adds: “But I think you are being a bit lazy now. You need to work harder, focus. Take the contest. Now come on!”
Nicholls, who last won the race in 2009, says: “We are always trying.” “That’s the way,” says Owens.
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