Bellator put on a spectacular display of high-speed jumping at Ascot yesterday to climb closer to the top of the two-mile novice chasing division.

He stretched his unbeaten record over fences to three as he put another smart novice Blowing Wind in his place in the PML Lightning Novices' Chase.

With a searching gallop from the outset the time was three seconds faster than recorded by seasoned handicappers earlier on the card.

"We were all very excited by that performance," said trainer Venetia Williams. "They've gone a really good gallop and he's absolutely winged his fences."

Tony McCoy had quickly taken Blowing Wind into the lead, clearly believing that was his best chance of upsetting 8 to 11 chance Bellator. But Blowing Wind was never able to establish a substantial lead with Norman Williamson always appearing confident on the favourite.

Bellator now has Cheltenham's Arkle Challenge Trophy in his sights but Williams has not ruled out another race before then.

Rockforce is another on the way to the Festival - his target is the Grand Annual Chase - after justifying favouritism in the Racing Channel Handicap Chase. He followed up his win at Kempton last week as he smoothly dismissed Amancio by three lengths.

Adrian Maguire was later given the all clear after Tilt And Turn crashed in novices' hurdle. The Meathman left the course with his left arm in a sling but said that he hopes to be in action at Newcastle today.