Wakanda (Westerner) after winning the Listed Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster

Westerner’s Wakanda wins Doncaster feature

Wakanda (9g Westerner-Chanson Indienne, by Indian River) landed Doncaster’s valuable Listed Sky Bet Chase on Saturday to bring more big-race glory for Westerner.

It was a poignant success in the three-mile contest as the nine-year-old’s joint-owner Ray Scholey passed away earlier in the week.

Harvey Smith, husband of trainer Sue, commented: “It's a fitting tribute to Ray. He's been a great supporter of National Hunt racing in the north and we could do with a few more people like him.”

Bred by Bluegate Stud, the admirable Wakanda is a G2-winning novice chaser and has accrued over £240,000 in prize money.