Donald McCain enjoyed the biggest success of his career when Peddlers Cross stayed on powerfully to land the Neptune Novices' Hurdle and maintain his unbeaten record over the obstacles.
The five-year-old travelled strongly throughout on the heels of the leaders and turning for home had Reve De Sivola and Rite Of Passage firmly in his sights.
At ths point the 7-2 favourite Rite Of Passage began to empty out and Daryl Jacob kicked for home on eventual runner-up Reve De Sivola.
But Maguire did not panic and produced 7-1 shot Peddlers Cross at the last to collar the leader and stay on strongly to land a memorable victory for his Cheshire handler.
A delighted McCain said: "Jason told me after Bangor-on-Dee that he was the best horse he has ridden, and I hjad to ring him back to check I was hearing right. He's a machine and did a piece of work at Bangor last week that was mindlbowing. It scared me to death.
"Jason has given him a peach of a ride. I Don't know where he will go next. We thought 2m 4f round Aintree would have been ideal but have to get home and see how he comes out of this before making any final decsision. There is no rush with him as he's a horse to look really forward to next year."
Donald's dad Ginger was full of praise for his son, who he thinks may now make it as a trainer.
He joked: "He comes out of his apprenticeship in 12 months and I think he may make a trainer!"
The winner received a quote of 33-1 with Hills for next year's Champion Hurdle.
*Ruby Walsh suffered a crashing fall from the heavily fancied Quel Esprit at the second flight but emerged unscathed and was able to walk to the ambulance unaided.
