The rivalry that started in June when South African bred, Ice Axe beat hom the hot favourite Ice Axe at Champ De Mars in Mauritius followed into the most prestigious event on the Island, The Maiden Cup.

Ice Axe, of Maingard stable and ridden by Gaëtan Faucon, got the upper hand after a superb duel with Il Saggiatore (Glen Hatt), beating the latter for the 3rd time.

Ice Axe thus maintains his unbeaten run in four outings and proved that he is a very good horse. It was Ricky Maingard and Gaetan Faucon's first success in this big race.

As expected, Solar Symbol (Sooful) was the quickest at the start, while Ice Axe followed patiently in second position. Il Saggiatore was at the back of the pack ahead of Intercontinental (Gerroudis).

Senor Versace, the second runner of Gujadhur stable, was the first to improve his position, 1000m from the winning post, followed by his stable mate. 300m from home, Solar Symbol was still in front, but the favourites were constantly making up ground.

Il Saggiatore hit the front in the straight, but Gaëtan Faucon launched Ice Axe and he managed to beat the horse of Gujadhur stable.

Rudi Rocks (Joorawon) finished strongly to take 3rd place in front of Intercontinental (Geroudis).