Gordon Elliott was overwhelmed by the turnout as he paraded Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Don Cossack on Saturday evening.
The nine-year-old landed the spoils on the final day of the Festival and was treated to a hero's welcome as he appeared in Elliott's home town of Summerhill, Co Meath.
The trainer was thrilled to see so many people line the streets in recognition of Don Cossack's exploits, and admitted he was still in a "daze" before the celebratory party, which also included jockey Bryan Cooper, retired to Shaw's Bar.
He said: "It was unbelievable to win the Gold Cup with my first runner in the race and it's brilliant for the O'Learys (Michael and Eddie, of Gigginstown House Stud) and all my staff who work so hard.
"It's a big team effort and it was great to see the turnout (in Summerhill). Don Cossack has come out of the race in great form and is taking it all in his stride. I'm still in a bit of a daze."
Cooper felt privileged to have added his name to the list of Gold Cup-winning riders. He said: "It was a dream come true to win the Gold Cup.
"It's a race that every jockey wants to win, so I feel very lucky to win it at 23 years old. My dad was at Cheltenham with me and I think he is still in shock."
