Du Berlais wins Hennessy Gold Cup

Madison Du Berlais gave trainer David Pipe and jockey Tom Scudamore their first Hennessy Gold Cup triumph at Newbury.

They were emulating their respective fathers, Martin Pipe and Peter Scudamore, who shared success in the race.

Fourth last year, Madison Du Berlais (25-1) held the persistent challenge of Air Force One (5-1) by three lengths. Snoopy Loopy stayed on to take third, nine lengths away.

Big Buck’s was a close third when unseating Sam Thomas after the final fence.

Island Flyer made the early running from Dear Villez with Madison Du Berlais and Air Force One close up.

Big Buck’s, bidding to give Paul Nicholls and Sam Thomas back-to-back victories after Denman last year, was held up but made the odd mistake.

He did though make real progress and looked dangerous four out where Air Force One and Madison Du Berlais took over once Island Flyer cried enough.

They had shrugged off all except Big Buck’s, who made one mistake too many at the last, leaving the two leaders to fight out the finish.