Henderson: No excuses for Long Run

Nicky Henderson had no excuses for the defeat of reigning Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup champion Long Run.

So impressive last year when finishing seven lengths clear of Denman and 11 lengths in front of Kauto Star, the young chaser and his jockey, Sam Waley-Cohen, were cut down by Synchronised on the run from the final fence and eventually pipped for second by The Giant Bolster.

Henderson was also responsible for fourth-placed Burton Port in what has been a fabulous Festival for his Seven Barrows stable.