3 minute read

Talented performer Letsbeclearaboutit looks set to take the step up to the top-level when tackling the Grade 1 Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase on December 3.

The Gavin Cromwell-trained runner showed some high-class form in hurdles and bumpers before creating a taking impression on his chasing debut at Gowran Park last month. He made it two from two over fences by beating six rivals in the Grade 3 Irish EBF Novice Chase at Cork and will now attempt to keep that unbeaten chase record intact, with the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse's Winter Festival next on the agenda.

Speaking at a press morning at his County Meath base on Wednesday morning, Cromwell said: "He came out of Cork great, it was a good run and he jumped very well, so touch wood we get him to Fairyhouse,"

"He looks like a chaser, and I suppose maybe with hindsight we should have gone chasing with him last year, but it is what it is.

"He missed a season with injury after his bumper year and there's not that many miles on the clock. Hopefully there's still plenty of good races to be had.

"He's taken to fences so well you'd have to be optimistic."

Gavin Cromwell's lightly-raced eight-year-old may not be the only horse competing in Grade 1 company that weekend, with Encanto Bruno likely to line up in the Bar One Racing Royal Bond Novice Hurdle on the same card.

The five-year-old, who was formerly trained by John McConnell, made the perfect start to his career with new connections when a ready two-length winner at Cheltenham in October.

Cromwell said: "He will run in the Royal Bond, all being well. I hope the ground doesn't get too soft, but so long as it doesn't get bottomless heavy, we'll give it a go,"

"He's very quick over his hurdles in Cheltenham, which I couldn't believe, as he doesn't show that type of speed at home.

"He obviously stays well, having won over two-and-a-half, and he has a bit of experience."