Lewis opts for Lexus with Mate

BEST MATE’S owner Jim Lewis confirmed yesterday that his pride and joy will add some extra festive cheer to the Leopardstown Christmas Festival by bidding for a repeat win in the showpiece Lexus Chase.

The triple Cheltenham Gold Cup winner landed the Grade One contest in impressive fashion 12 months ago and will head back to the Dublin track on December 28 rather than Kempton for the King George VI Chase on St Stephen's Day.

Speaking at the launch of the Festival, Lewis, accompanied by his wife Valerie, said: “He will be running at Leopardstown, even if I have to carry him over on my back.