McFabulous (Milan) Wins The Grade 2 John Francome Novices’ Chase at Newbury

Son Of Milan Adds Grade 2 Chase To Fabulous Record

McFabulous (8g Milan - Rossavon, by Beneficial) made it two from three over fences with an impressive victory in the Grade 2 John Francome Novices’ Chase at Newbury.

A multiple Graded winner over hurdles, Paul Nicholls’ charge ran out an impressive winner at Exeter last time out and stepped up in trip on Saturday. The bay made virtually all of the running under Harry Cobden and began to draw clear from four out. He needed little encouragement to score by six and a half lengths, as the favourite, dual Grade 1 winner Thyme Hill, was forced to settle for runners-up honours.

“McFabulous couldn't have done it any easier,” the winning trainer later commented. “He was always going to be a chaser and he's going to be running in good races for a couple of years now with a bit of luck. I'm thrilled with that and he'll go to the Kauto Star at Kempton on Boxing Day now.”

McFabulous continues to be a terrific servant for owners Giraffa Racing, having won 10 of his 20 starts and placed in another five. The son of Grange Stud sire Milan was bred by Vincent Finn, who sold him as a store for €88,000.