Murphy in the mood for French Gold Cup

The traditional finale to the National Hunt season, Murphy’s charge was last, some 40 lengths in arrears, after a circuit of the Sandown feature – and a distant sixth with two fences to go.

Written off by commentators, Timmy Murphy nursed Poker de Sivola, an 11-1 chance, into the race before playing his hand last of all and pulling clear of runner-up Faasel, favourite Baby Run and Rhys Flint’s Triggerman in a pulsating finish.

The only blemish was a two-day riding ban that the jockey received for hitting the horse three times before the final fence as he galvanised a winning surge.

It was bitter-sweet after one of the rides of the season from a seemingly hopeless position – Murphy does not have a reputation for whip misuse and had been contemplating retirement because of a lack of riding opportunities.

Poker de Sivola, who runs in the colours of former champion owner David Johnson, will now prepare for the French Gold Cup on May 29 at Auteuil.

“The suspension was harsh. All he did was give the horse three quick ones, and Poker pulled clear,” said the victorious trainer. “The one thing I told Timmy was not to give up. You just have to be patient – so I had no worries when he trailed after a circuit. He was different once he started passing some horses.”

Unlucky when being unseated in the previous weekend’s Scottish National, Murphy says Poker de Sivola will be aimed at next season’s staying chasers and, possibly, the Grand National.

A Cheltenham Festival winner last year when ridden by Katie Walsh, Murphy added: “I’ve always fancied a tilt at the French race.

“The prize money is great – £35,000 for down to fifth – and French Holly was fourth when I ran him in the French Champion Hurdle.”