Son Of Maxios Triumphs In Leopardstown Beginners Chase

Dee Capo (5g Maxios – Walkure, by Nathaniel) joined an illustrious honour roll when landing the Rising Stars Beginners Chase on the third day of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival.

Gordon Elliott’s Grade 3-placed hurdler stepped up to two miles and five furlongs on Saturday, and was held up by Danny Gilligan. Last with three to jump, he made good headway approaching the final fence and was ridden to lead close home. The winning margin was a neck, as Chapeau De Soleil (Soldier Of Fortune) rallying in second.

“He’s a nice horse,” Elliott commented. “He can go out in trip and he showed a good attitude galloping out to the line.”

Last year’s winner, Fact To File, has gone on to win three Grade 1 chases, while the 2021 renewal was won by Galopin Des Champs.

The David l’Estrange-owned gelding is now a four-time winner, having previously won a bumper and twice over hurdles. Bred by Haras de la Perelle, the son of Maxios was bought by his trainer with Bobby and Aidan O’Ryan at the Derby Sale for €230,000.