The 6/1 chance was guided home in the BetGoodwin-sponsored chase by Callum Prithcard for trainers Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, but it was close.
Livin On Luco had a clear lead with two to jump but it was whittled down by Ellis Collier on board the Evan Williams-trained Neo King (14/1), who eventually lost by only a neck.
Ken Roy (18/1) was third, Ivane fourth in the 11-runner contest, the highlight of seven on the card.
The John Rogerson Memorial Handicap Chase went to Footloose Man (5/1), ridden by Charlie Price for Richard Hobson, the BetGoodwin Download The App Novices' Hurdle was won by 4/6 favourite Crackerjacque (Rex Dingle/Antohny Honeyball), and the Bet Clever BetGoodwin Handicap Hurdle also went to the market leader, Officer of State (11/8, Caoilin Quinn/Gary & Josh Moore).
There was a shock in the BetGoodwin Steamer Of The Day Juvenile Hurdle, won by Westlain (66/1) under Lorcan Williams for trainer Jack Jones.
The BetGoodwin Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap Chase went to Just Over Land (11-2, Harvey Barfoot-Saunt/Sam Thomas) and the fixture closed with the BetGoodwin Free Bet Nose Losers Novices' Limited Handicap Hurdle being taken by 2/1 favourite Mask Of Zorro (Freddie Gingell/Joe Tizzard).
Next up at Fontwell is the Christmas Jumper raceday on Monday, December 8, then Boxing Day racing.
5. The 2025 Southern National at Fontwell Park, won by Livin On Luco picture by Clive Bennett (9).JPG
Southern National race day 2025 at Fontwell Park Photo: Clive Bennett
6. The 2025 Southern National at Fontwell Park, won by Livin On Luco picture by Clive Bennett (3).JPG
Southern National race day 2025 at Fontwell Park Photo: Clive Bennett
7. The 2025 Southern National at Fontwell Park, won by Livin On Luco picture by Clive Bennett (2).JPG
Southern National race day 2025 at Fontwell Park Photo: Clive Bennett
8. The 2025 Southern National at Fontwell Park, won by Livin On Luco picture by Clive Bennett (10).JPG
Southern National race day 2025 at Fontwell Park Photo: Clive Bennett