Winner heads straight to Cheltenham

Sam Winner will head straight for the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup without the aid of another run.

Paul Nicholls' eight-year-old has come alive over fences this term, with big-race victories at Cheltenham and Aintree backed up by a pleasing third in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.

And with four Cheltenham victories already in safe-keeping, owner Angela Yeoman hopes Sam Winner's prowess at the track will again serve him well in the big one on March 13.

She said: "He's really very well and we're very happy with him.

"He's had a little rest during the winter and is ready to go again.

"He seems to have grown up, which has been really pleasing to watch this season.

"He will not run before Cheltenham but I've absolutely no idea who will ride him in the Gold Cup - that's for Paul to work out.

"It has surprised me how good he has been in the wet, but I really think the deciding point (in the Gold Cup) will be the Cheltenham hill."