Niall "Boots" Madden and his son and namesake "Slippers" teamed up for a surprise victory as Wins Now just came out best in a three-way photo to the Guinness Galway Blazers Handicap Chase.

The nine-year-old gelding crept steadily into the two and three quarter mile race and, after challenging on the long run-in, benefitted from a strong drive by “Slippers” to just get the better of King Ali and Truckers Delight by a head and a neck.

“I was hoping he'd get into the Plate on Wednesday. He has been a bit disappointing but runs well around here, and was fifth in the Plate last year. The better ground was a help,” said the winning trainer.

Madden senior added: “We'll look for another handicap chase, and may try to find something back here.”