Thistlecrack added further credence to his raw staying qualities with a brilliant victory in the JLT Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot.
Trained by Colin Tizzard and ridden by Tom Scudamore, the 2-1 favourite turned what looked a strong renewal of the Grade One into an absolute walk in the park.
Reve De Sivola (11-4), who had won the Long Walk for the last three years, earnestly made the running, but mistakes at the fifth- and fourth-last did not help his cause.
Nick Williams' popular 10-year-old typically kept on going, though, and did well to finish second.
He was, however, no match for the brilliant winner, who took control at the penultimate hurdle and did not require much cajoling from Tom Scudamore to skip eight lengths clear at the line.
Scudamore said afterwards: "He gave me a lot of pleasure. It's a very special day.
"That showed me how good I think he is.
"He jumped very well in the main - he's a Grade One winner again."
Deputy Dan (14-1) finished third, another 12 lengths away, but the well-touted Saphir Du Rheu was a big disappointment as he reverted to the smaller obstacles after contesting the Hennessy Gold Cup last time out.
