Willie Mullins hands chasing debut to Ballymore second Gaillard Du Mesnil

Thursday: Naas

Willie Mullins can see no reason why Gaillard Du Mesnil cannot emulate Ferny Hollow, Blue Lord and Stattler by making a perfect start to his chasing career at Naas on Thursday (2.00).

Gaillard Du Mesnil chased home Bob Olinger in last season's Ballymore Novices' Hurdle in between winning Grade 1s at Leopardstown and Punchestown.

His schooling over the larger obstacles is reported to have gone well by the champion trainer who is also represented by the JP McManus-owned Capodanno in the race.

But Gaillard Du Mesnil will be partnered by Paul Townend and the champion jockey will be bidding to maintain his perfect start since returning from injury at Fairyhouse on Saturday where the Cork native won on all three mounts for Mullins.

Gaillard Du Mesnil won two Grade 1s last seasonCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Gaillard Du Mesnil is a general 16-1 chance for the Turners Novices' Chase at Cheltenham and, speaking ahead of his chasing debut, Mullins said: "He has been jumping very well at home and he shouldn't have any problem with the trip. We're hoping for a real good run from him."

Capodanno signed off last season with a dominant display in a Punchestown festival handicap hurdle over three miles and Mullins expects the gelding to do better over fences.

He said: "Capodanno looks like he was made for fences. He's a tall, leggy sort who jumps very well and covers a lot of ground galloping. He's also one to look forward to going chasing."

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