Glasker Mill reaped the reward of some intensive schooling sessions at Henrietta Knight's West Lockinge stables, near Wantage, with a thrilling victory at Cheltenham on Friday.
The seven-year-old lost his way over fences last season after making a winning debut at Fontwell. But he bounced back with a game success in the paddypower.com Graduation Chase.
Fundamentalist made a blunder three out when in command, leaving 15-8 favourite Ofarel D'airy to strike for home.
But Graham Lee galvanised Glasker Mill, and the 11-2 chance stayed on best of all to score by a short head.
Knight said: "He fell twice over fences last season, so we put him over hurdles and he slightly lost his way.
"We have done loads of schooling with him - he jumped 16 fences yesterday - and he has always had ability.
"We were thinking about the SunAlliance Chase for him last season as he does stay, but there are limited opportunities for him now as he is high in the handicap."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article