Flemenstar bolts up in Arkle Chase

Peter Casey trained his first Grade 1 win at Leopardstown today when Flemenstar turned the top level Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase into a one-horse race, trouncing his rivals by 19 lengths.

Ridden by in-form Andrew Lynch, the son of Flemensfirth improved to lead before three out before stretching clear of his rivals in the straight. Flemenstar eventually sauntered to an effortless win, seen often in maiden company but rarely at Grade 1 level.

Afterwards Casey said “we’re not going to Cheltenham with him this year but we might go for the Powers Gold Cup instead – he likes that soft ground.

“It’s great that his owner (Stephen Curran) hung onto him or else I wouldn’t have him! My son Peter said this morning that Flemenstar was in great form and he had a spin at The Curragh last week.

“He settled well and did everything right and is a lovely horse. I always thought the world of him and am delighted to have him!”