Dinoblue and Mark Walsh jump the last© Photo Healy Racing
Champion trainer Willie Mullins had mixed fortunes in Naas' Grade 3 Barberstown Castle Chase today and while he collected with winner Dinoblue suffered a reversal as stablemate Sir Gerhard fell, while giving chase.
Runner-up in March's Grand Annual Chase before winning at Fairyhouse and Punchestown, Dinoblue (5/6f) today faced four rivals which included dual-Cheltenham winner Sir Gerhard (15/8), which was trying fences following mishaps during his novice chase campaign.
Sir Gerhard was in hot pursuit and just a length behind Dinoblue when falling at the second-last with Dinoblue eventually shaking off the challenge of runner-up Fil Dor on the run-in.
Mullins wasn't present and Frank Berry, representing Dinoblue's owner J.P. McManus, said “she (Dinoblue) jumped well and handled the ground well. It’s a nice start to the season and you couldn’t be happier with her.
“I’m not sure what plans Willie has for her but I’m sure there will be similar (races) down the road.
“She was getting all the allowances which was a huge help. She will come on from the run and Mark (Walsh, winning jockey) was delighted with her.”
Dinoblue was cut into 9/2 (from 6/1) with the sponsors for the Mrs Paddy Power Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.
Quotes from Alan Magee
