Pat Fahy has high hopes for Castlegrace Paddy following his impressive victory in the Listed Pierce Molony Memorial Novice Chase at Thurles.
Despite just the one previous outing over the bigger obstacles under his belt, and opposition with stronger credentials, the 11-2 shot tracked the front-running Cadmium before serving it up to him four out.
He went clear at the next and although Jett tried to mount a challenge between the last couple of fences, Castlegrace Paddy had plenty left in the locker and Andrew Lynch did not have to get too serious for him to stretch three and three-quarter lengths clear.
Fahy said: "His preparation didn't have the one last gallop you'd like, but his mobility was unreal and it was the first time I've ever seen him right in himself.
"He had been stiff and sore after his last run in December, but had no issue for the last six weeks and I could start training him.
"He should come on tons from this and he'll probably run in the Grade One two-mile novice chase at Punchestown next.
"He likes being fresh and we'll keep him fresh for Punchestown now - he's exciting and he deserves a lash at the Grade One."
