Ruby Walsh keen to see Douvan over fences at Navan
Ruby Walsh believes Douvan is “ready start” over fences Navan on Sunday.
Willie Mullins’ five-year-old is unbeaten since his transfer from France to Ireland, winning the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March before plundering the Herald Champion Novice Hurdle a month later at Punchestown.
Douvan now gets his chance to show his worth over larger obstacles in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase.
Walsh told the Irish Examiner: “He was brilliant as a novice hurdler last year, going unbeaten, and doing everything asked of him.
“He’s schooled well over fences, he’s ready to start.
“If he jumps as well in Navan as he has done at home it’ll be great.
“Obviously you’d love a clear round first and foremost but we’re very happy with him.
“We think he’s very exciting and fingers crossed he can set himself up for a Grade One at Christmas.
“There’s plenty opposition but I think Douvan should be good enough if he jumps well enough.”
Douvan, who is already a best-priced 9-4 favourite to win the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival, will face 13 rivals at Navan.
Tom Taaffe’s course scorer Rogue Trader is one of five runners in the field for owner JP McManus, while Tony Martin saddles Blair Perrone and Bobbie’s Diamond.
