Maxim keeps up good work for connections

Placed on his two previous visits to Ballybrit, Maxim Gorky came good in the Guinness Handicap Hurdle, the opener at Galway.

Continuing what has been a fruitful Festival for Gigginstown House Stud, trainer Noel Meade and rider Paul Townend, the Montjeu gelding benefited from excellent ride from the former champion to get up and beat the always to the fore Orgilgo Bay (100/30 into 11/4 favourite) by half a length.

There was just a neck back to Xsquared in third.

"My brother Ben just texted me there to say we'll have to start bottling that water (a new source after problems with a contaminated well).

"He got some peach of a ride considering he didn't even jump that well – he left his hind legs in a few of them.

"He's a horse with loads of ability and he's got some pedigree. He's out of a half-sister to Galileo.

"He's on the list for Doncaster (sales) but whether he goes or not now I don't know," explained Meade. (AM & EM)