Beaulieu ends Spot’s winning sequence

IVOIRE DE BEAULIEU made a surprise winning British debut in the Sporting Index Handicap Chase as the unbeaten run of Spot Thedifference over Cheltenham’s cross-country course came to an end.

The Enda Bolger-trained veteran Spot Thedifference won all three races over the unique track last season and opened with another win at Prestbury Park last month.

However, the old boy was beaten some way at the finish, trailing the field into the straight as his gambled-on stablemate Good Step fought it out up front with the winner and Shady Lad.