Quilixios was much the best to take the BetVictor Irish EBF Novice Chase at Naas, in which the well-regarded Mister Policeman could only finish third.
The latter was the 8/15 favourite for Willie Mullins after winning both Irish starts in good style, including his chasing debut at Fairyhouse in November.
It was assumed there was more to come from him – but it was Henry de Bromhead’s 5/1 shot Quilixios, well beaten when last seen in the Florida Pearl, who moved with most menace in the five-runner field.
On the turn from home Rachael Blackmore pulled clear and was chased but never threatened by Gordon Elliott’s Sa Fureur, as Mister Policeman was a remote third after struggling from some way out.
“He was really good, jumped brilliant, travelled well and we couldn’t have really asked for any more,” De Bromhead said of the former Triumph Hurdle hero.
“He jumped a bit right in Limerick (chase debut) and we were concerned about that, but no sign of it here.
“He has loads of gears and is a Triumph Hurdle winner. He’s a class horse.
“We got the trip wrong the last day. He wouldn’t blow you away with speed at home, but those good two-milers have such a high cruising speed. Sizing Europe was the same and so was Special Tiara.
“He’s in the Irish Arkle, but we’ll speak with everyone at Cheveley (Park Stud, owners) and see where we go.
“I’d say he’ll have to go to the Arkle (at Cheltenham) now.”
Betfair halved Quilixios’ odds for Cheltenham, making him 25/1 for the Arkle from a previous price of 50/1.
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