CHELTENHAM sunday

ALAN KING’S Yanworth, widely regarded as a possible Cheltenham Festival winner before the season began, had one or two ‘blips’ to expunge in the Grade 2 BetBright Dipper Novices’ Chase at the course on New Year’s Day.

He responded well to the challenge and battled on gamely to beat Sizing Tennessee by a neck, with old rival Willoughby Court, too good for him at Newbury recently, eight lengths away in third.

Yanworth, receiving 5lb from his fellow 15/8 joint-favourite this time, was a bit sketchy early on but moved through to challenge Sizing Tennessee soon after three out. In front landing over the last, he showed a commendable attitude close home. Willoughy Court blundered at the 14th and should not be dismissed on this effort.

“He still has a bit to learn but he’s going the right way,” said Barry Geraghty upon dismounting from the winner. “He was idling a bit and was pulling up to a trot close home but he pulled out more when the other horse came to him, thank goodness.”

It remains to be seen which race Yanworth will go for at the festival but more immediate possibilities include the Scilly Isles Chase at Sandown and the Reynoldstown at Ascot.