Zaarito to step up in Deloitte

Zaarito is set to test his powers in Grade One company next month after his decisive success at Punchestown recently.

The smart bumper performer was beaten just a short-head on his hurdling introduction at Navan but made no mistake at the second time of asking as he won by a cosy length and a quarter.

The Deloitte Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown on February 8th is next on the agenda for the seven-year-old before a likely trip to the Cheltenham Festival.

"I was delighted with Zaarito the other day and he has bounced out of the race very well," said the trainer.

"I would imagine he will now go for the Deloitte on Hennessy day and all being well he will head to Cheltenham in March.

"He will have an entry in a couple of races but I suppose it's more than likely the Supreme Novices' will be the race for him."