2011 CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP: Long Run denies Denman and Kauto Star

Long Run (FR), sent off as the 7/2 favorite, defeated former champions Denman (IRE) and Kauto Star (FR) to win the Grade 1 Cheltenham Gold Cup at Cheltenham Racecourse.  The winner, a six-year-old gelding by Cadoudal (FR), pulled away from the field inside the final quarter mile to win one of the most prestigious events in racing. 

Last year's winner, Imperial Commander (IRE), was traveling well as the field neared the end of the 3 1/4 mile run, but he encountered difficulty with one of the final hurdles, causing him to lose touch with the top three. 

Prior champions Denman and Kauto Star looked to have the advantage in the later stages, leading the field inside the final three furlongs and pulling away as they commenced their charge to the wire.  Long Run, who was sitting just behind those two as they battled on the lead, made his winning move just inside the two furlong mark, swinging off the rail and unleashing a long, powerful drive to capture his first Gold Cup.  He won by seven lengths at the finish.

Full Result (via The Racing Post)

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