COLIN Tizzard aims to put another Gold Cup marker down tomorrow when Native River lines up in the Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury (2.25 pm).

While a Grade One success at Aintree last spring suggested the future was bright for Tizzard’s charge, the seven-year-old has improved more than even his connections must have hoped this season.

A long-term plan came to fruition when he landed the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury back in November, but it was his tremendous weight-carrying display in the Welsh Grand National that really confirmed him as a leading contender for next month’s blue riband at Prestbury Park.

Speaking about Native River to the Racing Post, Tizzard said: “He’s got to keep improving to win a Gold Cup, no question about it, but he’s a thorough stayer and the Gold Cup is often won by that type of horse. He’s got as good a chance as any.

“Newbury was always going to be his target as he needs a race before Cheltenham and, while the two-mile-seven trip might be on the sharp side, I’m sure Richard Johnson will keep plenty of pace on.”

The Betfair Exchange Chase – better known as the Game Spirit – throws up a fascinating clash between the Tizzard-trained Fox Norton and Nicky Henderson’s hugely exciting novice Altior at Newbury.