Sam Waley-Cohen has shot down suggestions that Prestbury Park’s unique undulations will prevent Long Run from producing his best form in the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup today.

The 28-year-old amateur rider was aboard the gelding, who is owned by his father, Robert, from Edge Hill, near Banbury, when he stormed to a 12-lengths victory in the King George VI Chase at Kempton in January.

But on two previous visits to Cheltenham, the Nicky Henderson-trained six-year-old has failed to sparkle.

He finished third to both Weapon’s Amnesty in the RSA Chase last March and Little Josh in the Paddy Power Gold Cup in November – prompting thoughts that he fails to handle Cheltenham.

“It’s an accusation that’s very easy to make and one you’ve got to answer,” said Sam.

“Going into the RSA last season there were some niggling doubts about whether he was in the best form – maybe he wasn’t as sparky as we wanted. I don’t have any concerns about the course.”

Waley-Cohen will be bidding to become just the fourth amateur to win chasing’s blue riband – with Hugh Grosvenor (Thrown In, 1927), Richard Black (Fortina, 1947) and Jim Wilson (Little Owl, 1981) the previous non-professionals to achieve the feat.

And he prefers to concentrate on Long Run’s qualities.

“You can’t do more than be judged by your actions and it was great that the horse ran so well at Kempton and it all came together,” he added.

“Good racehorses are not just about being able to put one leg in front of the other and go fast.

“It’s also about desire and heart and courage. That’s one of his great talents, but it also makes him a challenge to ride.”