Tony McCoy and Denman were reunited for the first time since Newbury last month as the jockey schooled the Cheltenham Gold Cup hope at Paul Nicholls' yard.

Part-owner Harry Findlay believes the 10yo will have his work cut out against Kauto Star, having unseated McCoy in the Aon Chase on his last start.

Findlay said: "He jumped two hurdles, two schooling fences and then two fences. I give him nine out of 10."

Kauto hard to beat

Harry Findlay is hoping for a big run from Denman in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but believes he will have to produce a career-best to beat Kauto Star.

The owner said after a schooling session: "Denman was definitely keen enough when jumping, but Kauto is so ready for the race."

He added: "He has been trained for this race all year and it will take a phenomenal performance for anything to beat Kauto Star."

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