Havaila proves Gold-en for Gary and Josh Moore

Havaila continued his rapid progression under a very patient ride from Caoilin Quinn to win the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown.

While the quality and quantity of runners may have been down compared to years gone by, Gary and Josh Moore’s seven-year-old emerged as a genuine Grand National contender.

Having landed the Sussex National last time out he was racing off a 10lb higher mark, but the 5-1 chance was running away with Quinn for much of the contest.

He still looked to have a bit to do at the Pond Fence as Our Power and Road To Home tried to assert, yet despite meeting the last on an awkward stride Havaila stayed on powerfully to catch Our Power on the line and win by a short head, with Road To Home another neck away in third.

Gary Moore said: “Fair play to Caoilin he gave him a great ride and got him switched off well enough. Caoilin has really stepped up this year and is a good lad who deserves it.

“I thought he had enough to do and a lot of ground to make up but he did it. He’s travelled and travelled and only just got there, but at least he won’t go up 10lb this time. Let’s hope he is all right tomorrow morning, running on that ground over that distance, let’s hope he’s OK.

“I suppose we might have to go down the Grand National route after that, but let’s get today over with and worry about next season in the autumn.

“He’s going in the right direction and he’s just started coming to himself. It’s great to get this race on the CV and we’re really lucky to have this horse.”