A novice chase that featured the long awaited return to action of the much vaunted RACING DEMON who had to win this convincingly to remain a leading fancy for the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham next month and win he did despite being in front from a long way out. Afterwards his trainer stated to have him up there had been the plan as it would have educated him and , apart from jumping to the right four out, he did little wrong and deserves his place at the head of the Arkle market. Judged on this performance he will be better suited by racing the other way round at Cheltenham and seems certain to put up a bold show.

Back Nine at least got round this time having fallen on his previous outing and he is probably going to be seen to better effect in handicap company in due course.

Mythical King has yet to win over fences but is another who wants handicaps rather than this type of company.

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