Richard Johnson has spent his career in the shadow of Tony McCoy, but the perennial champion was keen to proclaim his rival as an underrated force as he became just the second jump jockey to pass the 2,000-winner mark.

Alan King can hope for continued support from powerful owner John Hales after coaxing a first career win from Cracboumwiz at Newbury.

Zaynar showed the market whispers to be right on the mark at Newbury as an emphatic jumping debut moved the grey to clear favourite in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

NICKY HENDERSON and Mick Fitzgerald stole the show at their local track with a near 11-1 brace courtesy of Restless D’Artaix and Craven at Newbury yesterday.