ALAN King will have acknowledged Altior’s indomitable spirit, even though his own Sceau Royal was there with every chance at the last. The in-form trainer’s moment in the sun was not long delayed as Talkischeap landed the last big handicap of the campaign, the Grade 3 bet365 Gold Cup.

The seven-year-old had never raced beyond three miles before but the extra five furlongs caused him few problems. Lightly raced and with freshness on his side, he was always well in touch as last year’s winner Step Back and The Young Master alternated in front with the latter kicking on strongly under Sam Waley-Cohen as they landed over three out.

Considering a mistake as early as the second had nearly severed the partnership, The Young Master did remarkably well to come to the last with a chance, though he was soon joined and outpaced by Talkischeap, 7/1, who went 10 lengths clear for Wayne Hutchinson. Step Back finished a creditable third ahead of Give Me A Copper.

The winner was the subject of a midweek gamble but then eased out again on course.

GAMBLE

“When I heard about the gamble I thought ‘Really? They must know more than I do’, and I really didn’t expect that performance,” King said.

“But we weren’t firing when he disappointed at Kempton and we had no doubts about his staying the trip on the good to firm ground today

“He never missed a beat and was always in his comfort zone. I’m not a fan of the Grand National but we’ll have to give it consideration.”

Punters had things fairly well worked out with the first four starting at 10/1 or shorter, though the betting percentage was 127% and there is no doubt the bookmakers are working to much more favourable margins at the most prestigious and well-attended meetings.

When 14/1 chance Colonial Dreams completed a double for Henderson and De Boinville in the bet365 Handicap Hurdle later on, they were working to 129%.

Six that might have been 33/1 or better in the old days were either 20/1 or 28/1 here. None made the first three and there were no each-way terms for fourth.

Something to ponder with many big summer Saturdays to follow.