Santini and Native River beaten by 16-1 shot Lake View Lad in Many Clouds Chase

Lake View Lad proved a fitting winner of the Many Clouds Chase after surprising the big three of Santini, Native River and Frodon in a race blighted by low sun.

The complexion of the Grade 2 contest changed drastically just before the off as nine of the 19 fences were omitted and fears the decreased emphasis on jumping would hinder the key players became a reality.

Santini, Native River and Frodon have earned their reputations as three of the finest jumpers around and the absence of nearly half the fences made the race ripe for an upset.

Watch a replay of the Many Clouds Chase

It was 16-1 shot Lake View Lad who provided it by edging out last season's Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up Santini by a length under Brian Hughes.

Even winning trainer Nick Alexander admitted the bypassing of fences played a significant factor, saying: "I'm not sure he would have won had all the fences been in – and the handicapper should take that into account.

"I always wanted to have one chance against the Gold Cup horses and everything was perfect for him. It was the time to do it and it paid off, which was great."

Winning jockey Brian Hughes is interviewed after winning the Many Clouds Chase on Lake View LadCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Not only did Lake View Lad carry the colours of owner Trevor Hemmings, whose late Grand National hero is remembered in the race title, but he also gave the Scottish trainer his biggest success.

"It's been a day I won't forget and I'm delighted for the horse," said Alexander, who was on target with Clan Legend earlier on the card.

"I never had him quite right last season and he hasn't had a straightforward preparation this term either. It's brilliant to have him right on the day, and it's a great result for Trevor."

Jerry McGrath, stepping in for the ride on Santini with Nico de Boinville at Sandown, was left to reflect on what might have been.

"The fences being out was a massive disadvantage to me because he's such a good jumper," he said. "They keep him thinking and give him a chance to fill his lungs. It was a long way from the cross fence up the home straight and we quickened the whole way. He'll improve a lot for the run."

Lake View Lad (right) edges out Santini (centre) and Native River in the Many Clouds Chase at AintreeCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Low sun caused similar problems at the track in last season's Old Roan Chase but Richard Johnson, who finished third on Native River, believes safety is paramount.

"Native River is great jumper so it would have helped him, but when you get down there you can barely see to get around the fences – let alone jump them – so it wasn't worth risking safety," he said.

"He had a small setback last year which meant he missed the Gold Cup but he’s come back really well. Santini is obviously a very good horse and the winner has run a blinder. It’s just lovely to have him back."

Saturday's reports:

'We wanted to take on Altior' – reaction of Paul Nicholls after Tingle Creek win

Allmankind puts in jumping exhibition as four-year-olds dominateHenry VIII

'He's a star' – Vieux Lion Rouge storms to second Becher win on fifth race run

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