Further Grade 1 Glory For Maxios As Gaelic Warrior Conquers Cheltenham

Gaelic Warrior (6g Maxios – Game Of Legs, by Hernando) produced an impressive performance to record his third Grade 1 success in the Arkle Novices’ Chase on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival.

Willie Mullins’ charge was sent off favourite as he dropped back to two miles and travelled strongly throughout under Paul Townend. The Mrs Ricci-trained bay was travelling well at the second last and led before the final flight, before storming clear on the run-in. The winning margin was eight and a half lengths, with another four lengths and three quarters back to the third.

Speaking after the race, Mullins said, "I was asking myself when he was coming down the hill what on earth were we doing in longer races last year. He has enough class to do two miles and we'll probably stick at that game after that performance. We could spin him up to the Ryanair distance though, as he's very adaptable."

Gaelic Warrior gained his first Grade 1 win over three miles as a novice hurdler and doubled his top-flight tally in a two and a half mile chase. The talented son of Maxios has won or placed on all but two of his career starts.