Russell stars on day of drama

DAVY Russell’s cunning ground-saving manoeuvre aboard Dix Villez denied Enda Bolger a fifth consecutive success in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase on a theatrical first afternoon of Cheltenham’s Open meeting yesterday.

The covers were finally removed on the 2008 National Hunt season proper, and fans were treated to high drama from flagfall to sunset.

Jason McKeown kicked off the day by coming home with another jockey’s whip in the opening race, resulting in a lengthy stewards’ inquiry.