Sphagnum delivered an unforgettable win for conditional rider Dillon Maxwell in the Paddy Power Cork Grand National Handicap Chase, securing victory by a narrow short head. Trained by Shane Broderick, the seven-year-old went off as an 8-1 chance, carrying Maxwell’s 7lb claim in this Listed three-mile-four-furlong contest.
Racing prominently throughout, Sphagnum took command with four fences remaining, keeping a resolute lead as the field closed in. In the final strides, he fended off a strong challenge from Positive Thinker to claim a dramatic win on the line.
Maxwell shared his excitement: "The plan was to take the lead late, so the finish couldn’t come soon enough! We always knew he’d stay, as he loves these long trips. He was disappointed last time due to a lung infection, but today he was in top form, making only one small mistake. It’s a huge win for me; rides like these are rare."
Maxwell, who rides infrequently and lives on a family farm near Mullingar, praised Broderick and the yard, noting, "It’s special to win this—nearly a hobby for me at this stage."
In other races, Henry de Bromhead’s Gorgeous Tom impressed in the Grade Three Paddy Power Betting Shops Irish EBF Novice Chase. After a fall in Tipperary, he rebounded as the 13-8 favourite, securing a five-and-a-half-length win under Darragh O’Keeffe. "Tipperary was frustrating, but he came back well. We hoped he’d take to fences, and the Drinmore could be next," said De Bromhead.
Meanwhile, Oscars Brother brought local joy in the Paddy Power "How Many Days ‘Til Christmas?" Irish EBF Novice Hurdle. Trained and ridden by brothers Connor and Daniel, he delivered a 5-1 victory over Willie Mullins’ Paggane. Connor, based near Cork, expressed pride, noting that the horse has novice status until December, which will guide their plans. "It was nerve-wracking to watch, but Dan did a great job," he added, hinting at a three-mile handicap hurdle as a future target.
These thrilling performances capped an exciting day at Cork, highlighting horses and riders ready for bigger challenges ahead.