Smart Son Of Maxios Adds Bumper Win To CV

The Paul Nicholls-trained Ecco (6g Maxios - Enjoy The Life, by Medicean) added a bumper win to his CV when justifying favoritism at Kempton on Tuesday evening.

A winner on the flat in Germany and a three-time winner over hurdles, the Colm Donlon-owned bay was sent off favourite for the two mile and two furlong ‘Jumpers Bumper’. Harry Cobden rode him to track the leaders and loomed up threateningly at the two furlong marker, asking him to challenge approaching the final furlong. Graded performer Commanche Red (Mahler) forced Ecco to dig deep, which he did and scored by half a length on the line.

Bred by Stiftung Gestut Fahrhof, Ecco continues a fine run for his Castlehyde Stud sire Maxios, who celebrated Grade 1 success at the weekend. His son Quilixios extended his unbeaten record in the Spring Juvenile Hurdle and is expected to return in the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.