Chapoturgeon Impresses in Opener

Paul Nicholls pulled one back on Willie Mullins in the race to be leading trainer at the Festival as Chapoturgeon justified the opinion of the man closest to him that he was on a winning mark as he bolted-up in the Jewson Novices' Handicap Chase under Timmy Murphy in the David Johnson silks.

In front two out, the French-bred grey went on to eclipse Isn't That Lucky by nine lengths. Murphy gave all the credit to Paul Nicholls saying: "He has done a good job with this lad and he knew he was on a favourable mark."

Nicholls suggested: "He is a lovely horse that we've just minded. When I bought him I said to David (Johnson) that we might win an Arkle with him but it was fairly obvious that he wanted to go further. We've had this race in mind for a while."

Meanwhile Johnson commented: "All credit to Paul. I thought he was a two miler but Paul said I think he'll get a trip. I listened to Paul, and I'm pleased I did, he was right and I was wrong. All credit to Paul, he has laid the horse out for the race, been patient, and it has all come good today." (EM)