Flash De Touzaine and Richie Deegan© Photo Healy Racing
Trainer Liz Doyle has high hopes for second-season novice chaser Flash De Touzaine (11/1), who today broke his maiden tag over fences, landing Galway's Marlin Hotel Dublin Handicap Chase under jockey Riche Deegan.
The son of Kapgarde raced prominently throughout the 2m6f race and went clear on the run-in, to eventually beat Real Steel by eight lengths.
Doyle said “I've always loved this horse but he is mentally fragile, although is going the right way. He jumped beautifully, having been a bit novicey last year and we rode him more positively as we wanted to try something different.”
She added “hopefully he is a National type horse and you'd hope he will take a step forward with more experience as it was only his fifth run over fences. He is a pure natural with an obstacle coming to him.
“Paul (Nicholls, previous trainer) had a few issues with him but mentally he is coming along the whole time and I was very pleased they allowed me to take him back.
“He travels and jumps in this deep stuff and if that can do that, it is a big benefit to them. There are lots to look forward to.”
