Denman enjoyed an ideal preparation for the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup when taking the Aon Chase at Newbury with the minimum of fuss.
Partnered by Sam Thomas, the 1-4 favourite eased to the front before turning for home and survived one bad error at the cross-fence before powering clear of the staying-on Regal Heights.
Having put the race to bed early in the home straight, Denman measured the remaining fences well and passed the post 20 lengths clear of his nearest pursuer.