JUST two years since Bashboy, ridden by Ruby Walsh, won a historic third Grand National Steeple, the Kathryn Dudren-trained Wells has repeated the feat, adding a thrilling victory in Sunday’s Grand National Steeple to his previous victories in 2016 and 2014.

On a six race all-jumps card the A$350,000 feature Grand National Steeple was the last event on a mostly sunny day. Sent out over the 4,500 metres and 16 fences in Ballarat’s heavy condition, runners were applauded first time round as Sea King and Mannertone set the early tempo before the French import Dormello Mo made the first decisive move of the race. Mid-field to Wicklow Brave in the 2015 Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham when trained by Paul Nicholls, Dormello Mo went forward at the start of the treble over the back. Opening up a gap of three lengths with 1,000 metres left, Dormello Mo got there a touch too quick as Sea King kept on in second with Richard Cully and Wells right there in third. Over The Yardarm was a further three lengths and making ground.