PAUL Nicholls took a firm grip on the trainers’ title race many weeks ago and never looked like relinquishing it. Like his great rival Henderson. He completed a double on this final day, with Getaway Trump and Black Corton.

Bryony Frost’s successful return from injury gave the packed crowd something else to savour as Black Corton pulled 11 lengths ahead of Henderson’s Gold Present in the Grade 2 bet365 Oaksey Chase.

Black Corton loves fast ground and appreciated a few weeks off after disappointing at Kelso last time. Moving into second at the 14th, he led three out and drew well clear for Frost approaching the last, delighting favourite backers (at 15/8) in the process. He has been a tremendous servant, winning 14 of his 30 races with more to come.

Thinking he may be best over short of three miles, Nicholls mentioned the Peterborough Chase next term but also remarked that the Galway Plate could prove ideal. Stable-companion San Benedeto is the other possible for the celebrated Irish contest, pending a palate operation.

Getaway Trump had also disappointed at Kelso but justified 9/2 favouritism in the two-mile bet365 Novices’ Championship Final under Harry Cobden.

On a very good day for market leaders, Kim Bailey’s 9/4 chance Younevercall was a convincing winner of the Grade 2 Select Hurdle. A wind operation has worked but he must go right-handed.

CHAMPION NICHOLLS

Paul Nicholls was regaining the trainers’ title and winning it for the 11th time after giving best to Nicky Henderson for the past two years.

It is by no means impossible that, at 57, he will match Martin Pipe’s record of 15, although Henderson is not about to go away.

Paul Nicholls champion National trainer for 2019. Photo Healy Racing.

JOHNSON TOPS TABLE

Richard Johnson is champion jockey for the fourth time and states that he will be going flat-out to make it five. He may need to match this season’s 200 winners – reached at Perth on Friday – to resist Harry Skelton, whose trainer brother Dan also reached 200 this time.

The irrepressible Frost was champion conditional, despite injuries, and the slightly less voluble J.P. McManus was champion owner.

Aintree hero Tiger Roll was jumps horse of the year, though it was very hard to find anyone offering a price.

Champion National jockey Richard Johnson with Bryony Frost, champion conditional jockey. Photo Healy Racing