Fresh from their Grade 1 success with Tranquil Sea yesterday, Edward O'Grady and Andrew McNamara were on the mark with another good horse when Torphichen proved up to the task in the Chris "Hopper" McGrath 80th Birthday Beginners Chase at Clonmel.
A very well-backed 11/8 favourite, Torphichen had one danger removed when second market-choice Tharawaat departed early but Cadspeed really put it up to him, making it a good test from the front. However the successful Alhaarth got the better of the pace-setter from the second last, staying on well to score in the testing conditions.
O'Grady said of the former Michael Jarvis and David Pipe inmate, equipped with cheek-pieces for the first time here: "If he comes out of this okay he'll go for the big two miler (the Grade 1 Bord na Mona With Nature Novice Steeplechase on St Stephen's Day) at Leopardstown.
"I was disappointed that he got beaten at Limerick (by Quel Esprit) but I'd say that'll turn out to be as good a beginners chase as you'll see all season.
"I decided to put the cheek-pieces on him today because when he hit the front two out at Limerick he started to look around him.
"I hope he'll be an Arkle horse."
Stan James make Torphichen a 40/1 chance for the Arkle.
