A devastated Warren Greatrex paid tribute Abuffalosoldierwho suffered a suspected heart attack and died just moments after producing a sensational round of jumping to win the 3m3½f handicap chase.

The seven-year-old collapsed when he was retired after the race, while Bangers And Cash also suffered a fatal injury after collapsing midway through the contest. Racing vet Liam Kearns said it was a “huge coincidence” that there were two deaths in the same race.

Abuffalosoldier jumped superbly under Sean Bowen to record a fifth and final career win. He has been with Greatrex throughout his career and provided the yard with its first Cheltenham winner in five years.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Greatrex said. “I am very excited. This sport can be the best in the world, but sometimes it can be the hardest in an instant.

“He went out there and showed everyone what he can do with a scintillating performance. Nobody could say he wasn’t enjoying himself and I thought he jumped as well as any horse at Cheltenham, he was brilliant.

“He’s done well and I’m just devastated for everyone at the team, his owner and Esme Cook, who rode him every day and looked after him. He was her best friend. It was something (victory) that I was looking for. can’t wait to celebrate but it’s very sad.”

Ben Pauling trained Bangers and cash made 20 starts, winning four races including Lincolnshire National in 2022.

Napper Tandytrained by Matthew Smith, was another fatality after falling two in the Greatwood Hurdle.

In response, a statement from the BHA said: “The losses of Abuffalosoldier, Bangers And Cash and Napper Tandy are a tragedy for all connections and the thoughts of everyone at the BHA are with them.

“All three have received remarkable care and attention throughout their lives by those who cared for them and no one will be more heartbroken than those individuals.

“As with all deaths, we will seek to understand the circumstances behind each incident as we strive to further reduce avoidable risks in our sport.”

Peaky blinder

Nicky Henderson revealed there is still a lot to do Peaky Boy after making a successful debut over fences in the 2m4f novice handicap chase.

An unbeaten race since October 2022 looked in doubt as the 9-5 favorite was due to be pushed by Nico de Boinville at the top of the hill but found plenty to hit two and a half lengths from Westerninthepark.

It was a third win at the track for the six-year-old, who was impressive when scoring on New Year’s Day and at the April meeting.

Peaky Boy (left) jumps the last fence of the 2m4f Novices’ Handicap Chase behind Westerninthepark but was in front at the lineCredit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos

“He might still be a big kid,” Henderson said. “He was ridden in the paint covering it and he didn’t see a lot of fences, but his jump was superb. I’m surprised it didn’t ride a little more comfortably, but Nico said it was fine.

“I think there is huge improvement in this horse, I don’t think I’ve seen half of him yet. He could be a good horse. I’m sure he’ll get three (miles), but I don’t think he needs it yet.”

Skelton drives

Dan Skelton followed up his Saturday double through L’Eau Du Sud and Doyen Quest with two more winners to become the leading trainer at the November meeting.

Ace of spades kicked off the card with a brave success in the 2m½f maiden hurdle when beating Country Park by a length before Harry Skelton provided a confident ride. Fortune De Mer to win by a narrow margin.

The trainer said of Ace Of Spades: “The key move was not to commit from three. He will be progressive. Last season he improved and I hope he can this season.”

Mastery Matata

The Twiston-Davies team are considering a Champion Chase route for MatataCredit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

December’s Gold Cup and Champion Chase have been nominated as potential targets for Matata after landing in the 2m handicap chase.

The 11-10 favorite was in a battle with Gunsight Ridge in the straight but that rival fell in the last, leaving the Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained winner to cruise home for a 26-length victory.

Two at the top

Harry Skelton and Sean Bowen lead the David Power Jockeys’ Cup standings by 46 points after the opening weekend of competition.

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