Moscow Flyer - marvellous reception.

By Will Hayler

What a race we saw for the Queen Mother Champion Chase, it was a contest that must have warmed the heart of even the most ardent cynic.

The reception Moscow Flyer received after winning was incredible, on a par with the one Best Mate enjoyed when winning the 2004 Gold Cup.

It was really heartening to see people fighting to even get a glimpse of the winner as he returrned. Those who claim racing can't generate the same levels of enthusiasm as more populist sports such as football should have witnessed it.

This proves that horses like Moscow Flyer do receive the same adoration as Manchester United. The key is he has been around for many-a-season and with each one his fan club has grown.

Elsewhere I must congratulate Nicky Henderson on keeping dry eyes following both of his winners. The Lambourn handler is usually the first to well up at such occasions, indeed one journalist had already written their intro saying how Henderson's tears perfectly mirrored the early afternoon rain. His brave display ensured a quick re-write.

There were tears earlier in the day with the tragic news of the death of Farmer Jack although trainer Philip Hobbs was typically professionnal in relaying the news.

It was another hammer blow for the Gold Cup which has already lost several star names leading Jessica Harrington to ponnder whether the race had become jinxed following the switch to Friday.

Still on the Gold Cup and Howard Johnson faces a terrible decision over whether to run Grey Abbey after his recent injury setback.

The trainer has suggested to the owners that this should be the grey's final race but is loathe to risk him if there are any doubts. He will delay a decision until the horse has arrived at Cheltenham and the trainer has had a final check of the legs.

Finally, proof if it be needed, that racing is a great leveller.

24 hours after hailing Nina Carberry for her winner in Tuesday's finale it must be reported that as she was unseated from Karanja at the start of the Championship Bumper. It's a funny old game.