Le Vent D'Antan© Photo Healy Racing
Trainer Liz Doyle believes her talented bumper performer and smart hurdler Le Vent D'Antan could take his game to another level over fences ahead of his chasing debut at Naas.
The five-year-old finished seventh when joint-favourite for the Champion Bumper at the Cheltenham Festival in 2013 and although his hurdling campaign was hampered by numerous setbacks, he came good after the turn of the year.
Having got off the mark at Navan in March before finishing second at Fairyhouse, Le Vent D'Antan rounded off his season with an impressive success at the Punchestown Festival and he is the star name among eight runners in the Naas Annual Membership Beginners Chase.
Doyle, who also runs likely outsider Chief Admiral said: "His jumping has been very good, we've been happy with all his schooling at home and we're looking forward to it.
"He's fit and well and we've had a clear run with him. Last season was very stop-start with the problems he had with ulcers, but all has gone well so far this time around.
"He did well over hurdles, but we hope he can improve his mark over fences and it will be good to get him started.
"These races are never easy. You always get one or two in there and there are a couple of good ones. It looks a competitive race.
"We're just hoping our horse puts up a good performance and a clear round and we'll see what happens after that."
Le Vent D'Antan's rivals include the talented Real Steel who won a Grade Two over hurdles last season for Philip Fenton and is now trained by Mouse Morris.
Edward O'Grady saddles Flaming Dawn and Gallant Tipp while the Charlie Swan-trained Getoutwhenyoucan also features in an interesting contest.
