Paul Nicholls' domination of big races on Saturdays continued as Rocky Creek enjoyed a perfect Grand National trial in the BetBright Chase at Kempton.
With the weights already released for Aintree, he escapes a penalty and having finished fifth in the race last year, he appears likely to head to Merseyside with leading claims once more.
Nicholls also fielded 9-2 favourite Easter Day but the fact stable jockey Sam Twiston-Davies opted to ride Rocky Creek was perhaps a tip in itself.
Renard set a brisk early gallop with Rocky Creek leading the bunch and with half a mile to go it was the class acts, Rajdhani Express and Rocky Creek, who were still on the bridle.
When stamina became an issue, Rajdhani Express faded and Rocky Creek (8-1) powered clear to win by six lengths from Le Reve with last year's winner Bally Legend third.
"He was awesome, it's a great training performance, it was good fun," said Twiston-Davies.
"He was a different horse today, he took a pull on the way to the start.
"He's a pleasure to ride and very straightforward.
"We always felt better ground and Aintree would suit him. He ran a good race last year and this year I'd take a bit more time with him."
