The Dan Skelton trained Shan Blue took the first Grade 1 race of the day at Kempton when winning the Kauto Star Novices Chase.
The son of Shantou justified favouritism when staying on gamely in the closing stages to deny fellow former Irish Pointer The Big Breakaway.
Harry Skelton brother of the winning trainer, guided the six-year-old to victory.
The Colm Donlon owned gelding has now won on all three starts over fences under rules, he also a hurdle victory to his name.
Shan Blue started his career between the flags when winning his maiden at Turtulla for handler Andy Slattery in November 2018.
Shan Blue - still unbeaten over fences
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 26, 2020
ðŸ‡Three races
🥇Three wins
ðŸ†G1 Kauto Star Novices' Chase
The very exciting Shan Blue outpoints The Big Breakaway to plunder Grade One honours for @DSkeltonRacing & @harryskelton89 at @kemptonparkrace pic.twitter.com/kEhImxvvmi
