Harry Whittington, who trains at Sparsholt, near Wantage, celebrated his 34th birthday by saddling Arzal to upset hot favourite West Wizard at Kempton yesterday.

Richard Johnson made all the running on the 7-2 shot before his mount galloped home seven lengths clear of 2-9 market leader West Wizard in the opening two mile novices’ hurdle.

Whittington said: “He’s brave at his hurdles and is a very exuberant horse.

“He’s a very excitable chap and likes to get things over and done with as quick as possible.”

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