LIMPLEY Stoke-trained horse The Druids Nephew halved in price with some bookmakers for the Crabbie's Grand National after laying down a marker with a clear-cut success in the Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase on the opening day of the Cheltenham.

Aintree may still be four weeks away but William Hill were taking no chances in chopping the winner, trained at Conkwell Grange Stables but Neil Mulholland to 14-1 from 33s for the marathon event after his three-and-three-quarter-length success in the hands of Barry Geraghty.

Racing over three miles and one furlong, The Druids Nephew (8-1) benefited from a perfectly-timed ride to hit the front two out and see off Grand Jesture in style with Gallant Oscar third.

Mulholland said: "I'll have to have a word with Barry about it (the Grand National). I'm not going to talk it up now, it's all for another day and I want to enjoy this first.

"This has been the plan for a while. We gave him a freshener over hurdles as we knew he already had solid handicap form.

"When he ran behind Sam Winner here, we ran him not knowing if he would stay but he proved that day he did.

"Barry and I have been friendly for a long time so we have a good relationship and it helps having someone to bounce ideas off."

On the race victory Mulholland added: "We've kept him for this for a while and thankfully it's paid off.

"Barry knows the horse now, he's ridden him in the past and the horse was in great order.

"I thought the horse was in the best condition we've had him in.

"It's very important for us. That's our 53rd winner since May, including the Flat, so we're delighted. Things are going well, but it's all about Cheltenham. This is our World Cup."