Aidan Coleman rode to Queen Mother Champion Chase glory on Put The Kettle On, stunning Chacun Pour Soi in the process.
The Willie Mullins horse was the overwhelming favourite at 4/6, but came third to Henry De Bromhead’s 7-year-old (9/1) and Nube Negra (11/1) in second.
Put The Kettle On was amongst the front of the pack the whole way, and a late challenge from Chacun Pour Soi wasn’t enough to deny a superb victory, as the Irish continue to dominate on St Patrick’s Day.
It denies Mullins his first Champion Chase crown, and a 75th win in Festival history.
A delighted Coleman spoke to ITV Racing afterwards: “She had some fantastic jumps today and I’m really enjoying riding these horses, she’s just the best, I didn’t have to do a lot.
“Pulling up after winning was very emotional and it brings you back to your roots when you were younger.
“It was a testament to her ability. When you’re riding a mare like this it is a great buzz. I don’t want to take any plaudits, this mare is something else.”
Former Gold Cup-winning jockey Andrew Thornton told BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra before the race: “For me it is all about Chacun Pour Soi. We’ve seen impressive runners so far and I’m just looking forward to seeing him. We’ve been waiting to see him at the Festival – now is his time.”
With the withdrawals of defending champion Politologue on veterinary advice, and Altior earlier in the week, that seemed the case, but Put The Kettle On was out to spoil the party and led the race alongside Sceau Royal from the off.
As the latter began to drop off, De Bromhead’s horse stayed resilient and fought off a late challenge from the overwhelming favourite to win by half a length.
This is her second Festival win, having won the Arkle Challenge Trophy last year.
