By Andrew Atkinson
Imperial Aura (4-1) completed a 35-1 winning double selections on day 1 of the Cheltenham Festival, when landing the Northern Trust Company Novice Handicap Chase over 2 miles 4 furlongs.
Seven year old Imperial Aura gained a 3 1/4 length victory ahead of Galvin, with each-way selection Hold The Note, third, in the 20 runners field under jockey David Bass.
“We were very hopeful – after putting in good preparation for the race,” said trainer Kim Bailey.
“It’s what you come here for – Cheltenham Festival is the best – and to have a winner is wonderful,” said an emotional Bailey.
Imperial Aura followed 6-1 tip Shishkin into the winner’s enclosure, to complete a 35-1 double.
