Logic impressive on chase debut

Defy Logic made an impressive start to his career over fences when claiming the beginners chase at Naas.

Mark Walsh made all on the Paul Nolan-trained gelding and he pulled clear in the closing stages to post a 19-length victory at odds of 2/5.

The JP McManus gelding was a classy novice over hurdles last season but had tended to be very keen in his races.

James Nolan, brother of trainer Paul, was delighted with the way the Flemensfirth gelding relaxed on his seasonal debut:- "You're always nervous when it's your best horse and it was hard to eat breakfast this morning! "I'm glad that's out of the way. He's been more relaxed since he came back this year and we've been concentrating at home on getting him to switch off.

"Some people had the attitude that he's a bit quirky but he's as genuine as the day is long and would gallop to the end of the earth for you.

"He just got a bit silly when he came racing. He relaxed in the parade ring today and in the stable yard and I was even worried that he was too quiet.

"Mark was delighted with the way he relaxed. He said he took a big old blow about seven furlongs out and there is a lot of improvement to come.

"You can't help but dream with him and that's why you get up in the mornings.

"The plan was, that if everything went according to plan today, that he would go for the Craddockstown at Punchestown and we'll talk to Frank (Berry) now."

Paddy Power gave Defy Logic a first show of 16/1 for the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival.