Bacchanal enhanced his Gold Cup credentials when staying on in great style to land the Aon Chase at Newbury today despite some slow jumping.
Nicky Henderson pulled right away from stable-mate Marlborough after the last fence to win in impressive style.
Shotgun Willy, who had disputed the lead until three out, stayed on again on the flat to grab second - 12 lengths behind.
Marlborough made a most promising return to action, looming up approaching three out and looking as if he would give the winner a tough time. But he faded between the last two fences and eventually couldn't hold on to second.
Copeland, second in the Tote Gold Trophy in 2000 and fifth last year, made it third time lucky in the valuable handicap hurdle.
Tony McCoy always had the Martin Pipe-trained seven-year-old on the heels of the leader Benbyas as the 16-strong field went along at a good pace.
As the runners turned for home the champion jockey sent the 13-2 chance into the lead and jumping well Copeland galloped on strongly to land the Stg£63,800 first prize by six lengths from 12-1 shot Rooster Booster, who was finishing runner-up in the race for the second year running.
Benbyas (25-1) kept on gamely for third nine lengths away with Got One Too (5-1) doing best of Nicky Henderson`s four runners back in fourth.
PA