Notebook returns with Grade 2 Naas win

Michael O'Leary's Notebook made a winning return following a Cheltenham 'blot' in the dramatic four-runner Grade 2 Poplar Square Chase at Naas today, scoring for trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore.

Three of the four runners contested the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham last March, where Fakir D’oudairies fared best in second-place, ahead of disappointing 5/2 favourite Notebook in sixth and Cashback, who fell when beaten at the second last.

The trio were today joined by front-running outsider Djingle and while Cashback was heavily backed in to 11/10 favourite, 'the jolly' fell at the first.

Leader Djingle folded entering the home straight as Notebook took over the lead, and in the end Notebook stayed on strongly for a 12 lengths win over Fakir D’oudairies.

Following today's race De Bromhead stated “he was a little bit rusty over the first few but then jumped really well and stayed at it really well.

“It’s good to see him back to form and I’d say he’ll go to Leopardstown at Christmas. He loves it around there and has won two Grade 1s there.

“Rachael said he took a blow at the fourth last and hopefully he’ll come on for it. I’m delighted with him.”

German-bred-and-named Notebook is owner O'Leary's sole purchase from John Nallen, as he won't advertise the Clonmel hotelier's other 'Minella' prefixed horses, and was later cut by Paddy Power to 20/1 (from 33/1) for the Champion Chase at Cheltenham in March.

Quotes from Alan Magee