'Santini is a big armchair and I absolutely love him' says proud work-rider

Santini: on his way to landing the Cotswold Chase under Nico de BoinvilleCredit: Alan Crowhurst

Santini's regular work-rider Billy Aprahamian could hardly conceal his pride as he strode into the winner's enclosure alongside the Cotswold Chase winner after a battling performance at Cheltenham.

As assistant trainer to Nicky Henderson, former Army officer Aprahamian is the man charged with putting the Gold Cup contender through his paces when stable jockey Nico de Boinville is away.

"I have the honour of riding Santini every day," said Aprahamian. "He's the best horse I've ever sat on and, while he doesn't always show the most at home, he's an absolute legend.

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Jonathan HardingReporter of the year

Published on 25 January 2020inReports

Last updated 19:53, 25 January 2020

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