Riverside Theatre wins Betfair Ascot Chase

Riverside Theatre made the perfect return to action as he landed back-to-back runnings of the Betfair Ascot Chase this afternoon.

The Nicky Henderson-trained eight-year-old, part-owned by actor Jimmy Nesbitt, had not been seen since his triumph in this race 12 months ago.

But after travelling strongly in the hands of Barry Geraghty, the 13-8 favourite put in a superb jump at the fifth-last and never looked likely to be caught from there.

In the end three lengths separated the winner from the gallant Medermit, whose rider Robert Thornton did incredibly well to stay in the plate following a bad mistake eight from home.

Kauto Stone faded at the business end after pulling his way to the front going out on to the second circuit.

Geraghty said: "It was a top-class training performance by Nicky to bring him back after being off for 12 months.

"He did it the hard way. We were in front with five to jump and I thought he might struggle but away he went.

"He sadly missed the Ryanair last year, so let's hope we can get there this year.

Nesbitt added: "That was fantastic. We are just thrilled and that was a race.

"He jumped beautifully and we're overwhelmed.

"He travelled well and responded well when he was put under a bit of pressure towards the end."

Henderson said: "We schooled him over five fences last Thursday and those were the first fences he had jumped since the last here a year ago.

"Barry was brave to go so early, but he was straight enough today.

"The plan last year was to run here and then the Ryanair, sadly he fractured a pelvis before the Ryanair a year ago. I don't think we will be looking anywhere else (than the Ryanair) now."