CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP contender Don Cossack returned to winning ways today at Thurles when landing the Ladbrokes Ireland Kinloch Brae Chase.
The 1-8 favourite, with Bryan Cooper on board, finished over 9 lengths clear of Wounded Warrior in second to win for trainer Gordon Elliott.
The victory is a good response after the disappointment of the King George VI Chase at Kempton on St Stephen’s Day.
Don Cossack was challenging strongly in that race before falling at the second last as Cue Card went on to see off Vautour in a photo finish.
After finishing third in the Ryanair Chase last March, Don Cossack is now set for the Gold Cup on 18 March and today is likely to be his last run before the Cheltenham Festival.
Don Cossack remains second favourite for the Gold Cup behind Djakadam.