MIN ran out an easy winner of the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Dublin Chase at Leopardstown for a second successive year.

A 12-length winner last term, his task was made a little easier before the race even started with the morning defection of Simply Ned.

That meant only five went to post, with ill-fated 2017 Champion Chase hero Special Tiara pulled up in the early stages after suffering an injury.

Then when Castlegrace Paddy crashed out, only three remained, with Harry Whittington’s Saint Calvados in front.

Ruby Walsh was happy to sit some five lengths off him aboard the Willie Mullins-trained Min, but a series of big leaps saw him close the gap with Ordinary World also making progress.

With the last fence omitted because of low sun, Walsh nursed Min alongside the British challenger before kicking clear and the 4/9 favourite won by six lengths.

Ordinary World stayed on for second with Saint Calvados last of the trio.

READ THE FULL DUBLIN RACING FESTIVAL REPORTS IN NEXT WEEKEND'S EDITION OF THE IRISH FIELD