Pipe strikes Hennessy Gold

David Pipe landed his first Hennessy Gold Cup as Tom Scudamore partnered Madison Du Berlais to victory in the Newbury feature.

The duo's fathers, Martin Pipe and Peter Scudamore, had teamed-up for victory in the race, and now their sons emulated the achievement on Saturday.

25-1 shot Madison Du Berlais was fourth in the race last year, but this time came home in front when beating off the challenge of Air Force One by three lengths, with Snoopy Loopy back in third.

Big Buck's was bidding to give Paul Nicholls and Sam Thomas consecutive victories in the race after Denman won 12 months ago, but he crashed out of contention with a final fence fall.

Challenge

With Big Buck's falling, Air Force One and Madison Du Berlais were left to fight it out after long-time leader Island Flyer had thrown in the towel.

Pipe's charge got the better of the argument as the trainer looks to now end a lean spell.

"I can't believe it and we've just had two winners at Towcester as well," said Pipe.

"I had to check the result to make sure it was true.

"I told everyone this horse had no chance due to the form of the stable, and the fact the race only seems to be won by second-season novices, and also because the horse is his own worst enemy.

"He never runs a bad race and the handicapper doesn't relent. But I can't blame him as the horse has won."

Awesome

Scudamore added that he was delighted for himself and trainer, while adding his pleasure at emulating his father.

"I'm quite happy!" said Scudamore. "It's absolutely tremendous.

"They've done a great job with him at home.

"My dad won it 20 years ago and this was awesome.

"I knew people had been worried about the form of the yard but he just travels and I think the guv'nor would have won on him."