Horse Racing: Tiutchev impresses in Sandown opener

Tiutchev returned to his best when winning the opening Elmbridge Handicap Chase at Sandown.

The winner of the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at the 2000 Cheltenham Festival was lucky to even be on a racecourse after surviving a serious attack of colic during the summer which nearly claimed his life.

But the nine-year-old seemed none the worse for his illness here, defying top weight of 12st to score by an easy 12 lengths from Abalvino.

Trainer Nicky Henderson's wife, Diana, said: "He nearly died in the summer, not once but twice, and we weren't sure how he would take it.

"We are very lucky we still have him and it is great to see him win like this. He looks really well."

Tiutchev will now run at Ascot in a fortnight's time before heading to Cheltenham for the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

William Hill were most impressed with this performance, making him 4-1 from 8-1 for his Festival target but Coral offer 7-1 (from 10s).