WAK’S A RAY OF SUNSHINE Emotional scenes after big chase win

THERE were emotional scenes in the Doncaster winners’ enclosure after after Wakanda claimed a last-gasp success in a thrilling renewal of the Sky Bet Chase.

The Sue Smith-trained nineyear-old sports the colours of Margaret Scholey and her late husband Ray, who died earlier this week.

It is 14 years since Truckers Tavern carried the same silks to a memorable runner-up spot in the Cheltenham Gold Cup behind Best Mate.

And while Wakanda might not be at that level, he has been a fine servant to his connections and was an 8-1 shot to snap a long losing streak dating back over two years in the hands of Henry Brooke. Narrowly beaten in the Rowland Meyrick Chase at Wetherby over Christmas, Wakanda looked booked for a place at best over the last, with Paul Nicholls’ Warriors Tale appearing sure to prevail having seen off the challenges of Long House Hall, Federici and others.

The heavily backed favourite L’Ami Serge was staying on all the time and there were five in with a chance with 100 yards left.

L’Ami Serge stayed on for third, with Long House Hall fourth.

But it was Wakanda, sent off at 8-1, who found another gear close home to prosper by a narrow margin.

Harvey Smith, assistant to his wife, said: “It’s such a fitting tribute to Ray.

“He’s been a great supporter of National Hunt racing in the north and we could do with a few more people like him.”

Asked whether he felt Wakanda could be a Grand National contender, he said: “I don’t think so. He’s not big enough.”

Winning jockey Brooke said: “He’s getting a bit lairy in his old age and he was backing off his fences.

“After jumping the last I knew I’d finish well but I didn’t know if I’d get there but thankfully he got up in the dying strides.

“That’s the first time the horse has won in over two years so it definitely won’t do him any harm.

“His owner passed away earlier this week, so it’s sad circumstances. It’s a shame he couldn’t be here to see this but I’m sure he’s looking down on us.”

Earlier, there was a thrilling climax to the Albert Bartlett River Don Novices’ Hurdle, with Enniscoffey Oscar narrowly outpointing Shannon Bridge after a thrilling duel.

The Emma Lavelle-trained Enniscoffey Oscar (9-2) had opened his jumping account in impressive style here in early December and showed tenacity to go with his talent to lift this Grade Two prize by a short head in the hands of Leighton Aspell.

HOORAY FOR HENRY: Jockey Brooke celebrates his victory on Wakanda