Royal Choice sparkles on chase debut

Royal Choice like the winner of the race a year ago, Hill Fairy, created an excellent impression on her debut over the larger obstacles by taking the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Lombardstown Mares Novice Steeplechase by four lengths under Andrew Lynch.

A partnership that is certainly in form, Lynch was riding this daughter of King's Theatre for trainer Henry de Bromhead. His wife, Heather owns the 8/1 chance, who won a point-to-point and a Tramore maiden hurdle prior to today's big success.

When Brave Betsy led shortly after three out, she looked very likely to score. However Royal Choice, who appeared as if she was struggling early in the straight, hit top gear to lead away from the last and she went on to beat Brave Betsy by four lengths.

Lynch commented: "She hit a flat spot coming out of the back straight and I said I'd ride her to be placed and try and get a bit of black-type from there. She jumps great though and she really took off with me in the straight."