Pipe disappointment can take step back in right direction

It's only right that the winner of a big race should receive the lion's share of the plaudits and there's little doubt Native River was a thoroughly deserved victor in Saturday's Hennessy, having been in the thick of the action throughout.

Hard-nosed form students may decry the overall level of the race given the identity of his three nearest pursuers, particularly third-placed Double Ross, also in the van throughout, who was beaten only five and a half lengths and was contesting veterans' chases earlier this season.

They'd have an argument, but I'd rather salute a ten-year-old who has never had the talent to be a superstar but has raced with enthusiasm for several seasons and become one of the unsung heroes of the sport.