BallaBriggs (9-1) travelled like a demon throughout in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase at Cheltenham on Thursday but in the end he was out on his feet and just about got home in the final race of day three of the Festival.
Owned by Trevor Hemmings, whose colours were carried to success earlier in the day by Albertas Run in the Ryanair Chase, Ballabriggs, in the hands of Richard Harding just about held off the late and determined challenges of both Faasel (20-1) and the 11-4 favourite Gallant Nuit.
The Donald McCain-trained nine-year-old was clearly the best handicapped horse in the race but approaching the line his top weight looked like it was going to be his downfall.
However, he bravely clung on and rewarded his trainer, who won this race with Cloudy Lane three years ago, with his second winner of the week.
McCain said: "He's a grand type of a horse, a really genuine horse and three and a quarter miles was always going to be stretching him a bit round here.
"Richard's done the right thing, he had to kick on and try to win his race.
"He got his race won but then he was treading water for the last 100 yards and we got away with it.
"He hurt himself last year so we've been patient but he's a joy to train. Mr (Trevor) Hemmings (owner) has been very patient and he's a great supporter of ours.
"It's magic, it's been a fantastic week."