Bowen rides Holloway Queen to first Cheltenham win

Jockey James Bowen clinched his first winner at the Cheltenham Festival aboard Holloway Queen in the National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup.

Trained by Nicky Henderson, the mare pulled clear on the run-in and won by five-and-a-half lengths.

James is the first of the Bowen brothers from Pembrokeshire, alongside jockey Sean and trainer Mickey, to have a winner at the festival.

Bowen, 25, was embraced by older brother Sean, who finished the race sixth on Wade Out, after the finishing line.

Mickey Bowen also had a runner in the race with his horse, Holokea, finishing eighth.

Pic Roc, ridden by fellow Welsh jockey Ben Jones, set the early pace but weakened in the final mile of the 3m 6f race.

Bowen missed the entirety of last year's festival due to a seven-day suspension for excessive whipping.

"[It] feels good," Bowen told Racing TV.

"Obviously I missed the whole festival last year. I have been injured twice and got banned last year. I have not had a clear run at it.

"I am glad we went for it in the end. She was incredible to jump - that is the best she ever jumped for me. She got into a lovely rhythm.

"You always dream of having Festival and Aintree winners."