Synchronised In Tune for Lexus Chase
28/12/11

1 Synchronised 8/1
2 Rubi Light 9/4
3 Quito De La Roque 13/8F
9 ran Distances: 8l, 2l, 2l
TIME 6m 19.50s (slow by 14.50s)

The connections of Synchronised were proved justified in their decision not to defend his Welsh National crown at Chepstow and instead cross the Irish Sea to tackle the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.

Synchronised
Grossick Racing Photography

Rubi Light was tackling the three-mile trip for the first time, having landed the John Durkan earlier this month, but despite travelling strongly and jumping fluently, he had no answer when Synchronised came to challenge him at the top of the straight and the British raider swept clear in impressive style.

Quito De La Roque, the 13-8 favourite, was going for a sixth consecutive victory and was last seen beating Sizing Europe at English Grand National."

McCoy added: "We were a little worried about the ground drying up, but Jonjo was happy to come here for him. He's got great stamina, and that's really what brought out the best of him. If he does happen to run in the Gold Cup he won't disgrace himself."

Rubi Light's trainer Robbie Hennessy was not too despondent, saying: "We know he definitely stays three miles. He could go for the Red Mills or the Hennessy."

Colm Murphy, trainer of Quito De La Roque, said: "I was very pleased. He would prefer more of a test. He ran well for a second-season novice and we'll look at the Hennessy now."