Spirit River obliges in Coral Cup

Nicky Henderson's Spirit River was given a fine ride by Barry Geraghty to run out an impressive winner of the Coral Cup at Cheltenham.

Geraghty, fresh from winning the Queen Mother Champion Chase on Big Zeb, settled the 14-1 chance just in behind the early leaders, but moved up menacingly running down to the second-last.

While most of his rivals were hard at work, Geraghty looked full of confidence and, after rounding the turn for home, quickened clear and jumped the last with ease.

Big outsider Tullamore Dew (80-1) tried to reel him in, but Spirit River stayed on strongly to take top honours by four and a half lengths.

James De Vassy passed the post in third place, while Micheal Flips weakened into fourth, having raced handily throughout.

Geraghty said: 'That was a good performance. They didn't go that quick so I made sure I was in a good position all the way and he jumped brilliantly for a five-year-old.

'I had a fair idea he'd stay but he's only five - he did it really well.
"Nicky is the best man to ride for, especially here, he is such a gent and it makes my job easier.'

Owner Michael Buckley added: 'It is absolutely wonderful. He's a very young horse who'll be going chasing next year, so this is a huge bonus.'