Saphir Du Rheu showed his Hennessy Gold Cup credentials with a good win in the Colin Parker Memorial Intermediate Chase at Carlisle.
The Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old was strong favourite for the race and showed why as comfortably held off The Young Master to seal the win ahead of the big race at Newbury on November 28.
It followed on from a strong finish to last term and a bright start over fences in 2015 which now sees the Andy Stewart-owned gelding favourite for the Gold Cup.
“I was thrilled with him. He will improve for the run, he always does. He's just been a bit heavy for my liking, but today I liked the way he travelled and, most importantly of all, he jumped brilliantly,” said Nicholls.
“Last year he was always a bit keen and enthusiastic and never jumped that well until his last start. His jumping was awesome today.
“He'll go to the Hennessy now, god willing, and we'll make a plan after that.”
