JAZZY Matty (15/2) provided young trainer Cian Collins with his first Cheltenham Festival success, and rider Danny Gilligan with his second, when landing the Debenhams Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase.

Two years ago, Jazzy Matty had completed a double on the day for the late Michael O’Sullivan, but after losing his way, was sold to Collins and Denis O’Regan for €50,000 at the Tattersalls Ireland Caldwell Dispersal Sale. He came into Wednesday’s race with two wins for his new stable and the Top Man Racing Syndicate.

Racing in touch with the leaders, he was produced to lead from the second last, before being ridden out on the run-in. He kept on well to deny the favourite, last year’s winner Unexpected Party, by a length and a half, with another length and a half back to Gavin Cromwell’s 25/1 shot Midnight It Is in third.

“It’s unbelievable,” said a delighted Cian Collins. We were very hopeful coming here today, but it’s Cheltenham and we needed a lot of luck on our side. We had that. I said that that - Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty winning - doesn’t happen often. This is for Michael.

“He’s gone from strength to strength since we got him. He really enjoys the way we train, and it’s unbelievable to have gone this today. It’s been a long couple of weeks before today - we only had one horse coming over and a lot of time and effort has gone into him. Everyone at home in the yard - we’ve a great team and to get this is unbelievable. To win on the big stage means so much and hopefully showcases that we can get one ready for the big day as well.”

Danny Gilligan had similar thoughts on the win, saying: “It went very smooth, never missed a beat the whole way round there. I’m sure everyone knows there’s someone very special looking down on us today. That’s for Michael.

“He was in such a great rhythm and I didn’t want to disappoint him anywhere; I was letting him stretch for a couple of fences, but he was in such a rhythm. He really loves the hill and loves it round here. He just got touched off here the last day, but he loves the hill and grinds it out.”