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The Cheltenham Festival is building towards its thrilling conclusion with the Gold Cup now almost upon us. Iconic retired jockey Rachael Blackmore and current leading rider Ben Jones have spoken candidly about the nerves and tension that build before the big race.

Whilst all four days of the Festival are eagerly awaited, there is one contest that stirs excitement above all others. The three-mile, two-and-a-half-furlong Gold Cup test on the New Course puts some of the sport's finest horses to the test across 22 formidable fences. This prestigious event is where National Hunt legends are made, and last year's honours went to the Gavin Cromwell-trained, JP McManus-owned Inothewayurthinkin. The eight-year-old gelding's campaign has been underwhelming thus far, yet he returns to defend his title against a host of worthy contenders on Friday.

Just as racing enthusiasts regard this contest as the highlight of the week, jockeys are equally on edge behind the scenes in the Cheltenham weighing room.

Betfair ambassador Blackmore said: "The weighing room's a great place. It's a hive of activity. It's busy. There are a lot of people crammed in there, saddles everywhere and it's a hectic environment.

"But tensions are very high at times. Before, say, the Gold Cup, it's not as loud. People are in the zone. There's not as much banter as at other times.

"Different jockeys are different, I suppose. Some people like to get up to have a chat and interact with others. Other people like to sit in their own zone. I think it depends.

"But everyone wants to go out and win and you will ride on the edge to do that. It's a competitive sport. There are going to be days when people aren't happy and people are giving it out. I've been at one end of it and I've been at the other end of it. That's the level of sport we're at. You're not riding at the highest level if that's not in some way part of it."

Regarding current riders, Jones has experienced a remarkable year. He savoured King George success aboard the Harry Redknapp-owned The Jukebox Man in December of last year and will revive that partnership in Friday's Gold Cup.

Now well acquainted with major races, Ladbrokes ambassador Jones revealed: "Obviously, everyone deals with the pressure of the Festival completely differently. Some lads chat a bit more, some are a bit quieter.

"I could have a joke and a laugh and then obviously when business comes, it's business. But I think the main thing is, it's obviously hard, but you've got to treat it as if it's a normal day.

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"In terms of a different atmosphere in the weighing room compared to other meetings, yeah, there is a bit. I can tell you every single jockey in there wants to beat the other ones. So there is a bit of rivalry.

"It is bizarre in that sense because in football or rugby, you're all together and you're getting yourself revved up for the other team and you wouldn't see them until you come out to the pitch. But we could be getting dressed or changed next to someone who you're going to be competing against. It is very unique."

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