Britain avoids Cheltenham whitewash

Victory of Missed Approach was modest consolation

Noel McParlan (L) riding Missed Approach crosses the finishing line alongside Patrick Mullins (R) riding Mall Dini after victory in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders' Handicap Chase at Cheltenham. Pic: Getty

There were cheers of the self-mocking variety in the Cheltenham press-room yesterday as Britain avoided what would have been something very humbling: going through an entire day at Cheltenham without a winner trained in the country. It had never happened before.

The victory of Missed Approach, who denied an Irish-trained pair as the three of them went clear up the hill, was modest consolation for the British: they trail 15-6 in the Prestbury ...