'I was praying he'd be in the first four' - Cheltenham dream alive for 'star' veteran after 33-1 Pertemps qualifier win

J'Ai Froid gave himself every chance of lining up at the Cheltenham Festival after the beloved yard stalwart defied his 33-1 price with success in the 2m7½f Pertemps qualifier. 

Trained by Laura Morgan, the 12-year-old flouted expectations when scoring by two and three-quarter lengths over Rickety Bridge on his first start since April.

"He's been a star for us and to win at 12, after almost a year off, is absolutely fantastic," Morgan said. "I was just praying he'd be in the first four, with it being the qualifier, and we were hoping it came up soft. Fingers crossed we get a bit of rain next month and he can get in the Pertemps Final off a nice low weight."

The win under Harry Reed was extra special, as Morgan not only trains J'Ai Froid but owns him alongside amateur jockey Ellie Mayo. 

"His previous owner Katherine Bromley gave him to me and Ellie, who works in the yard, and he's just a lovely horse to have," she added. 

"A lot of credit goes to Christy Mews too – J'Ai Froid had been to a couple of trainers but she convinced the owner to send him to us. He just loves staying tracks and heavy ground, so we're delighted."

Dr delivers

Evan Williams was out of luck in the Pertemps qualifier when Minella Missile was pulled up, but his fortunes soon improved when Dr T J Eckleburg landed the feature 2m handicap chase. 

Favourite Javert Allen looked to have the race in his grasp but the 6-1 shot reeled the leader in to score by a short head under Adam Wedge. 

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