It would not be an afternoon with a typical Richard Johnson winner, and he proved the difference aboard Kensukes Kingdom in the first race of the day - the Watch More With Racing UK Extra Novices' Hurdle.
Was only sixth on a bumper debut at Uttoxeter last month, he showed he was capable of much better, having also won two point-to-points.
He virtually made all under the champ, was ridden up the straight and hung left on the flat with a reduced lead. Johnson got him home, and he was declared lame crossing the line, having been dismounted after the race.