Three Standout Performances - 03/12/2018

It would not be an afternoon with a typical Richard Johnson winner, and he proved the difference aboard Kensukes Kingdom in the first race of the day - the Watch More With Racing UK Extra Novices' Hurdle.

Was only sixth on a bumper debut at Uttoxeter last month, he showed he was capable of much better, having also won two point-to-points.

He virtually made all under the champ, was ridden up the straight and hung left on the flat with a reduced lead. Johnson got him home, and he was declared lame crossing the line, having been dismounted after the race.

The one everyone everyone came to see - Kalashnikov, ran out a comfortable winner of the Sky Sports Racing Novices' Chase, and make it two out of two over fences.

Amy Murphy's 5yo further consolidated his claims and credentials for next year's Arkle Chase at Cheltenham with a fine round of jumping, following up his victory at Warwick three weeks ago.

He led from the 9th, and drew clear after 3 out. Was in no danger after and won very easily.

Half an hour later, Royal Claret stayed on best of all to land the Tysers Mares' Handicap Hurdle for Tom Symonds and Ben Poste.

She stayed on well to go close over 2m7f at Chepstow latest, and the longer trip today was always going to suit.

What's more impressive is that she looked heavily outpaced in 4th 4 flights from the finish, and was soon ridden. The 6yo began to make headway under pressure after the next, before leading 2 out, and keeping on up the straight.