Born Braver shows his versatility in Down Royal

Born Braver took the step up in trip to three miles at Down Royal in his stride when he landed the Pepsi Max Hurdle.

The 8/11 favourite faced three runners and disputed at a sedate pace with Gold In The Rivers

Kieren Buckley sent him into the lead two out which he wasn't fully fluent at but he stayed on well to post a four-length success from Gold In The Rivers.

Gavin Cromwell said: "He is ground and trip versatile.

"It was a very messy race and they went pretty steady early and it turned into a sprint.

"He showed a little bit of class there although it is probably hard to weigh up off that race.

"You probably could go back to 2m4f, but I think he will stay 3m very well. I think he will make into a nice chaser at some stage."

On Buckley, he added: "He is absolutely (a good part of the team), he has ridden out his claim and is good and solid.

"He has settled into the yard really well.

"It has been a good move for both - he is a good fella and a good worker."