Diamond King rules in Coral Cup at Cheltenham
Diamond King was produced to perfection by Davy Russell to rule the roost in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham.
Russell delivered Gordon Elliott's charge after jumping the last flight and quickly asserted on the run to the line.
Baron Alco and Ubak, both trained by Gary Moore, set a steady pace and the tempo only increased down the hill with two flights to jump.
Several horses were spread across the course, with Blazer, Ubak, Waxies Dargle and Long House Hall among those having every chance.
However, Diamond King (12-1) burst through on the far side to pounce and score by a length and a quarter from Long House Hall (16-1).
Ubak (28-1) was another neck away in third, with Blazer (8-1) fourth.
Elliott said: "That was great. Davy gave him a great ride and we're delighted everything worked out.
"We thought if he settled he'd win."
Russell said: "It's great to ride a winner here at any time of the year, let alone at the Festival.
"Gordon filled me with loads of confidence - no instructions.
"All credit has to go to Gordon, he got him here in tip-top shape.
"He's a master of his trade and it was easy to ride him."
