The Cheltenham Festival when Nicky Henderson had the golden touch

Nicky Henderson often says just one winner at the Cheltenham Festival alleviates all the pressure and no doubt there is truth to that. However, such is the Seven Barrows strength, one might not suffice this term and in 2012 the trainer had a magnificent seven winners. We take a look back at them.

Racing Post Arkle

The gorgeous gelding was beaten on his first appearance at the festival, finishing third to Al Ferof in a red-hot Supreme 12 months earlier. Switched to fences, he had enjoyed a flawless campaign, earning the nickname of 'The Black Aeroplane', and he soared at Cheltenham, strolling to a seven-length win from Cue Card.

Ballymore Novices' Hurdle

At his best, Ronnie Bartlett's grey was brilliant – him working alongside Sprinter Sacre would terrify and thrill Henderson in equal measure – and those present in the Cotswolds that day arguably saw the finest version of the ill-fated Simonsig. He travelled with his usual dash before picking up powerfully for a convincing success.

Bobs Worth and Barry Geraghty after his RSA successCredit: Edward Whitaker

RSA Insurance Novices' Chase

Not in the same flamboyant mould as Sprinter Sacre or Simonsig, the popular Bobs Worth was the little lion who roared up the Cheltenham hill at three festivals. This RSA sandwiched his Albert Bartlett and Gold Cup strikes, and he earned it in typically gutsy fashion, using his stamina – which was his strong suit and biggest asset – to stay on best.

Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase

The fourth-fence, first-circuit fall of Wishful Thinking, who dramatically crashed into photographers behind a nearby rail, meant the obstacle had to be omitted as the last, leaving Finian's Rainbow and Sizing Europe to duel for what seemed an eternity. They came close, but Henderson's inmate – owned by longtime friend Michael Buckley – prevailed.

Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Henderson is always keen to win the race that remembers his legendary mentor Fred Winter and this year he was represented by Soliwery and unheralded French-bred filly Une Artiste, a largely dismissed 40-1 shot with a low weight. However, she kept on gamely after taking the lead late, providing jockey Jerry McGrath with his first winner at the meeting.

Actor James Nesbitt with Riverside TheatreCredit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

Ryanair Chase

There was a touch of Hollywood, or at least the Riverside Theatre in Ulster, about this success as Cold Feet actor James Nesbitt's classy chaser struck under an action-film ride from Barry Geraghty. Henderson groom Conor Murphy was also celebrating after landing £1 million from a bet that included Sprinter Sacre, Simonsig, Bobs Worth and Finian's Rainbow that week.

Johnny Henderson Grand Annual

A glorious week for Henderson could not seemingly get any better, or could it? He was floating on cloud nine after a scarcely believable six winners, but took off again when landing the race that honours his late father Johnny, a man credited with helping save Cheltenham from closure. An assist came from a typically sublime Paul Carberry hold-up ride and he saddled the second home for good luck.

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