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Paul Nicholls’ fine recent run of form continued when Pic D'Orhy successfully defences his crown in the 1965 Chase at Ascot on Saturday.

Sent off a 4/9 favourite, Pic D'Orhy was sent straight into an early advantage by Harry Cobden and whilst victory wasn't as straightforward as his odds might suggest, he ultimately came home clear to score by a comfortable three and a half lengths.

The Paul Nicholls-trained nine-year-old, who is now a ten-time winner over fences, produced a good leap at the second last when he needed it, with both Dashel Drasher and 25/1 outsider Hidden Depths waiting in the wings should the favourite falter. Hidden Depths stuck on gamely to get the better of the 5/2 chance Dashel Drasher for the runner-up spot, but neither could match the finishing kick of the eventual winner, who provided Nicholls with a ninth victory in the race.

"I wish we had more like him, he's not a champion but he's a very good horse. I'd love to own him; he wins a lot of money every year," said Cobden on Sky Sports Racing.

"He just took a blow going to the second last but managed to jump it well and he's gone and won nicely in the end.

"He's more laid back these days and takes a bit more work to get fit. It's a lovely first run of the season."

A trip to Windsor could be on the cards for the winner, with Nicholls eyeing another valuable pot for the Johnny de la Hey-owned son of Turgeon.

"It's a nice start to the season. Johnny (de la Hey, owner) and I have spoken about supplementing (into the King George) and there's a new race at Windsor," said Nicholls.

"He keeps on winning and we could do with a yard full like him. Captain Teague is entered at Newbury (also owned by De la Hey).

"He (Pic D'Orhy) will definitely get three miles there are lots of nice races for him. That Windsor race would be a real target as it's a big pot."