Denman put in an awesome display to win the Hennessy at Newbury and is now favourite in places to regain his Gold Cup crown he lost last year to stable companion Kauto Star.
The 11-4 favourite had to be rousted along as the tape went up to get near the front, but once Ruby Walsh got him into a rhythm he was always travelling well and jumping for fun.
As they past the stands cash poured on him in running and he touched 2-1 on Betfair as his supporters sensed victory was a formality. But rounding the home turn he looked vulnerable as the Queen’s Barbers Shop loomed up ominously, closely followed by What A Friend.
However “The Tank” then began to turn the screw and Barbers Shop quickly emptied out at stamina came into play and it was left to Denman’s stable companion What A Friend to throw down the most serious challenge approaching the last.
But as much as Sam Thomas tried he could not get a hanging What A Friend to put it all in where it mattered and Denman powered on to raise the roof of the Newbury grandstand.
Victor Chandler immediately made him their new 2-1 favourite for the 2010 Gold Cup, and pushed Kauto Star out to 9-4.
Other bookmakers still narrowly favour Kauto to confirm last year’s form, with 5-2 the price generally on offer for today’s winner. However Paddy Power go a stand out 3-1 and can expect plenty of business at that price.
One thing is for sure, Denman is back. Back to his best with all his demons of last year behind him. At this stage I can’t split him in relation to Kauto and before getting involved in the Gold Cup ante post market I would like to see how both horses take their next race.
If they both win and get to Cheltenham in tip top shape it will be a race to savour with the current score 1-1 and the victor being able to claim true superstar status as one of the best chasers of all time.
