CHACUN Pour Soi looks another potential superstar for Willie Mullins and Rich Ricci after winning Grade 1 Ryanair Novice Chase at the Punchestown Festival on just his second start in Ireland.

Having created a huge impression on his first run for new connections at Naas, the seven-year-old was in much deeper waters this time in the hottest novice chase of the season.

It contained Philip Hobbs’ JLT winner Defi Du Seuil, Arkle hero Duc Des Genievres, Aintee scorer Ornua and Voix Du Reve, a Grade 1 winner last time out.

As is his wont, Ornua set off at a helter-skelter gallop – and that sorted out Us And Them, who was an early casualty.

By the second last, Duc Des Genievres took over from Ornua – who had shot his bolt – but he was tracked by stablemate Chacun Pour Soi and Robbie Power, replacing the recently retired Ruby Walsh.

Richard Johnson was content to sit in behind him on Defi Du Seuil to delay his challenge until as late as possible. Yet despite getting close at the last, Chacun Pour Soi – who had defied an absence of more than 1000 days to win last time out – went on again to win by four and a quarter lengths.

Paddy Power were suitably impressed, and quickly made him a 5/1 chance for next year’s Queen Mother Champion Chase.