Master of his trade

Master Minded took the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase for the second year in succession with another imperious display at the Cheltenham Festival.

Sent off the 4-11 market leader, the Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old was settled in behind the leaders by Ruby Walsh, but cruised ominously to dispute the lead after jumping the fourth from home.

The result was in little doubt from this stage as he went into a clear lead on the turn to the finishing post.

Although he had to be pushed right out to the line, Master Minded still came home seven lengths clear of Well Chief.

There was drama at the start of the two-mile contest, with two false starts called due to Marodima running away with Nick Scholfield.