All roads lead to Ayr for Ewart's Scottish National hope Empire De Maulde

The Coral Scottish Grand National is the long-term aim for Empire De Maulde after his victory in the 3m2f handicap chase.

The 13-8 favourite, trained by James Ewart, demonstrated his credentials for the Grade 3 marathon under former champion jockey Brian Hughes when he finished powerfully to stretch three lengths clear of Big River.

"He travelled and jumped well," said Ewart. "He was fit and ready to do the job, so we're very happy with him. If we get there in one piece, the end game will be the Scottish Grand National in April.

"He likes better ground, the extra three-quarters of a mile will be a big plus, it's a big galloping track with big fences and there's a lot of prize-money on offer – track tick, ground tick and horse tick."

The Duke bids farewell

Northern Bound made the trip from the Cotswolds worthwhile when completing his hat-trick in the 2m1f handicap Chase for Ben Pauling.

The seven-year-old, who stepped down in trip, beat the Donald McCain-trained Away At Dawn by a length and a quarter, while Listed winner Duke Of Navan was retired aged 13 following the race.

Results, replays and analysis

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