Donald McCain’s eight-year-old Maximilian is preparing for his long-awaited chasing debut, with plans for a return to action in the coming weeks. Last seen finishing second to Apple Away in the Grade One Sefton Novices’ Hurdle in April 2023, Maximilian missed the entirety of the 2023-24 season due to setbacks.
The talented gelding had previously claimed victory in the River Don at Doncaster, defeating Stay Away Fay, who went on to win the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham. Hopes were high for Maximilian to excel among staying hurdlers or novice chasers last season, but his campaign was put on hold.
Now back in full training, McCain is cautiously optimistic about his progress, though he remains patient with the timeline for his return.
“There’s no set timeline at the moment, but he’s in fast work now,” McCain said. “I’d love to get him away somewhere before we think about going racing, but he’s coming along fine.”
The trainer indicated that conditions will play a key role in planning his comeback:
“We brought him back in later than the others as he needs to cut in the ground anyway, so he wouldn’t have been running in the autumn. It will possibly be just after Christmas or into the new year when he’ll be racing. He’ll be going chasing as time is getting on now.”
McCain added that Maximilian remains straightforward to train and looks in excellent shape:
“He only ever does what he has to do at home, but he looks great and seems fine, so all is good. He’s just a very straightforward, no-frills horse at home.”
Maximilian’s return is eagerly anticipated, with connections hopeful he can make a significant impact over fences in the coming season.