Sir Gerhard further enhanced his growing reputation, as he claimed the Listed BetVictor Flash Cashback "Future Champions" INH Flat Race.

A winner of a point-to-point at Boulta for Ellmarie Holden in November of last year, the son of Jeremy subsequently changed hands for 400,000 pounds.

Again successful on his debut for Gordon Elliott and Cheveley Park Stud at Down Royal in October, the five-year-old was expected to maintain his unbeaten record this afternoon and was sent off the clear 4/9 favourite.

Settled in second behind market rival Letsbeclearaboutit the bay victor got to the front over a furlong from home and he soon powered clear, coming home four and a half lengths to the good.

The previously unbeaten Letsbeclearaboutit (9/4) had to settle for second, while Anglers Crag was another nine lengths back in third.

"His work has been really good at home," said Codd, who partnered Envoi Allen to victory in this race in 2018 for the same connections.

"You are always slightly concerned when you get to Navan in December with the ground but he handled it. Good horses tend to handle it and he was very good.

"We're delighted with him and we'll roll on into the spring now.

"His pedigree suggests he'll be better on a bit of nicer ground, being by Jeremy. Down Royal wasn't too bad.

"He's a very nice horse."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson