LONG RUN IMPRESSES IN FELTHAM

January 20 2010

Long Run wins at Kempton.

Sam Waley-Cohen unwrapped the best possible Christmas present as Long Run provided the amateur jockey with an armchair ride in the williamhill.com Feltham Novices' Chase at Kempton.

Although just a four-year-old, Long Run has a wealth of experience over fences in France and his reputation went before him as the youngster made his British debut for Nicky Henderson as the 11-8 favourite.

Waley-Cohen's mount, owned by his father Robert, may have brushed through a few obstacles en route to his 14-length demolition of Tazbar, but the manner of his romp was breathtaking and bookmakers had no second thoughts in shortening him up for the RSA Chase.

Henderson chose to run Long Run in the Feltham in preference to stablemate Punchestowns and the pair sit at the head of Ladbrokes' ante-post market as the 5-1 joint-favourites for the Festival event.

The same prices are offered by Coral and Sky Bet with totesport and Victor Chandler standout 6s.

The winning rider said: "I want to thank everyone who has put up with me over Christmas and thank those who have let me keep the ride.

"I went down to school him and he went well - but I didn't think he would go that well.

"He will take plenty of beating and is very, very exciting."

Henderson, winning the race for the fifth time since 1990, added: "We have got to get his English better than his French as there are still some French habits in there.

"He will learn and that is the only the only negative, as the performance was unbelievable.

"As for his engine, you can see that for yourself and for a four-year-old he is a serious horse.

"He needs more practice but at least the jockeys will be easy to sort at Cheltenham!"