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Prydwen proves much too strong for his rivals in the BetUK All-Weather Championships Marathon Handicap at Newcastle.
The George Scott-trained six-year-old arguably arrived on the back of a career-best having gone down by a neck to the reopposing Spartan Army in the AWC Marathon Trial Handicap at Lingfield earlier in the month, but despite Prydwen having a swing in the weights, the latter was still sent off the more fancied of the pair.
Always well-positioned just off the front-running Palace Boy, Prydwen made his bid for glory with three furlongs to travel and with a decisive turn of foot, it quickly became apparent George Scott's contender had plenty of his rivals hard at work in behind.
Old rival Spartan Army attempted to mount a challenge between rivals, but the bird had already flown, as Prydwen skipped further clear towards the often favoured near side rail under Danny Tudhope.
Duke Of Oxford put in some good late work to fill the runner-up spot but Michael Bell's charge was ultimately no match for the commanding three-and-a-half length winner.
Spartan Army (5/1) finished back in third with the Michael Appleby-trained Howth outrunning his 33/1 starting price back in fourth.
Danny Tudhope, who was stepping in at late notice with the former champion apprentice De La Sayette stuck in traffic on his way north, said: "He gave me a lovely ride, I had a nice position early, he was happy where he was, and he controlled the pace.
"I was always confident; I was always going well. I don't know much about his form; it was a late call-up. George said the track might not play to his strengths, but he travelled sweetly and did it the hard way."
Speaking from Lingfield, George Scott said: "It wasn't poor Benoit's fault at all, there was a crash right in front of him and he couldn't help it, but we were delighted when Danny was available and took the ride.
"He's an outstanding jockey and his decision at the start of the race to make up ground easily played a huge part in the way he was able to dictate the race.
"It was a really good performance. He's been a light-framed horse, so we've given him a bit of time and he's filled into his frame. He's a bit older and wiser and that performance opens a few doors, I think he deserves a go at Royal Ascot in something like the Copper Horse Handicap."
He added: "A huge amount of credit has to go to ARC (Arena Racing Company) for today. They've put on two very good meetings, there are big crowds at both meetings, excellent prize-money and very competitive fields."
