Maxminelli

That second-place finish is the highlight so far, sandwiched between a seventh, a fourth, and a sixth. There's no consistent upward curve yet, which will be the main thing the team are trying to unlock. Still, being placed once from four races at least shows the ability to compete — it just hasn't translated into a win yet.

What Maxminelli does have in its favour is the yard behind it. Henry De Bromhead, based at Knockeen in County Waterford, is one of the most respected names in the game, and his operation has sent out 107 winners already this season — a remarkable volume that speaks to the depth and quality of horses under his care. Landing a horse with De Bromhead is no guarantee of success, but it does mean Maxminelli is being trained by someone who knows exactly how to get the best out of a young horse still finding its feet. The pieces are in place. Whether this one can put it all together is the question worth watching.