Copperhead showcased an impressive performance at Aintree on Sunday, securing a hat-trick victory in the Virgin Bet Vieux Lion Rouge Veterans’ Handicap Chase. The Grade Two-winning chaser, trained by Joe Tizzard, has been on a remarkable run, following up his Plumpton win in May with a win at Chepstow earlier this month.
Starting as an 11/5 favourite, Copperhead took charge with a commanding move under jockey Freddie Gingell, overtaking long-time leader Fortescue in the home straight to win by an impressive 14 lengths. Tizzard, speaking from Wincanton, expressed his pride in the horse's comeback, saying, “He looks to have won really nicely and has obviously got his confidence back.”
Looking ahead, Tizzard confirmed that Copperhead will be aimed at the Stayers’ Veterans’ Chase Series final at Sandown in January. He noted the horse’s remarkable recovery from a serious fall in the 2020 RSA, stating, “He seems to have forgotten about it now, and we’re away.”
In other races, Skyjack Hijack joined the winner's circle with a 16-length victory in the Barrie Wells Trust Box4Kids Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, while Imperial Saint and Sunray Shadow also brought joy to their backers. Fergal O’Brien’s Kamsinas continued his stable’s success with a notable hurdle win and is set to contest the Betfair Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle at Haydock on November 23.