Dubh delivers as Mikael flops

Realt Dubh under Paul Carberry, caused a 10/1 upset in the featured Grade 1 Bord Na Mona With Nature Novice Steeplechase at Leopardstown today, capitalising from a below-par run from Mikael D’Haguenet and the final fence fall of leader Saludos

Mikael D’Haguenet faded tamely after two out, eventually finishing a well beaten fifth while Saludos was an unlucky loser, having held every chance when exiting at the last obstacle.

Afterwards winning trainer Noel Meade stated “I was a bit disappointed with him the last day at Fairyhouse but he jumped brilliant today. I always thought the world of him but did think he always wanted two and a half miles.”

“He could come back for the Irish Arkle and we’ll see what happens but he could be a contender for the Cheltenham Arkle next March.”

William Hill introduced Realt Dubh at 25/1 for the Arkle, while the same firm and Paddy Power both took Mikael D'Haguenet out of their Gold Cup ante-post lists.

Thomas Weekes