Max Dynamite being aimed at Melbourne Cup

Dual purpose performer Max Dynamite is unlikely to go to the Cheltenham Festival with another crack at the Melbourne Cup his main aim.

The Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old finished half a length behind Prince Of Penzance in 2015 but two outings on the Flat last year yielded little joy and he has been off the track since finishing down the field in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot last June.

Max Dynamite was at around the 20-1 for the County Hurdle at Cheltenham next month but owner Rich believes the Punchestown Festival at the end of April is a more likely option before he builds towards another Australian trip.

“I’m often asked about him and I’m happy to report that he’s fine, back in training and riding out,” Ricci told Irish broadcaster RTE.

“It’s not certain that he won’t get to Cheltenham but it’s probably a bit unlikely, and he should be ready for Punchestown on the way towards getting ready for a Flat campaign.

“The Melbourne Cup, in which he finished second two years ago, is the ultimate aim. Getting him back to Flemington Park this winter would be an extraordinary thrill.”