The favourite Sydney Paget (5/2) was the long time leader but faded quickly in the home straight (eventually pulled up).
Tullamore Dew (8/1) and Cape Tribulation (6/1) chased Cloudy Too home but never really threatened the winner.
2013 Grand National Winner Auroras Encore
The opening novices’ handicap chase (12.35) provided the best finish of the afternoon. Clondaw Flicka (7/2f) lead for most of the second circuit in the 3m1f contest. But Shouldavboughtgold (8/1) closed him down and took the lead after the final jump. The gelding, however, seemed to stop running for a few strides and Clondaw Flicka was able to rally and get up on the line in a photo finish.
Clondaw Flicka was the first half of a double for trainer Lucinda Russell. Saphir River (12/1) under Craig Nichol was also successful for the Scottish-based trainer in the handicap hurdle race (2.20).
The novices’ handicap hurdle (1.10) was another tight finish. The only time the winner Catcher Star (11/2) was in front in the entire race was on the finishing line, denying Getabuzz (5/1) by a neck.
The crowd at Wetherby was certainly the biggest for a few years for the Boxing Day fixture, no doubt helped by the fine winter weather.
