Flynn on a high with Rome

Pat Flynn can barely contain his excitement after seeing the highly-regarded Designs On Rome shed his maiden tag at Naas on Monday.

Following a couple of encouraging performances in defeat, the juvenile got off the mark in good style at the third attempt and his multiple Grade One-winning trainer believes the youngster is the best horse he has ever trained.

That theory is likely to be put the test next month as Designs On Rome is set for a major step up in class for the Goffs Vincent O'Brien Stakes at the Curragh, a Group One better known as the National Stakes.

"We were delighted as we've always rated him highly. I've been saying for a while he's the best horse we've ever had," said Flynn.

"He got beaten on his first couple of runs and that was probably my fault. I shouldn't have run him until now as he was weak earlier in the year, but he was so good at home I put pressure on myself to try and get him to Royal Ascot.

"He ran well on his first run and then on his second run he reared up in the stalls and the door hit him in his face. He lost six lengths at the start and was only beaten three lengths.

"He's just starting to come to himself now and he's only going to get better.

"I would say at this stage the National Stakes will be his next run. There really isn't much for him between now and then."

Designs On Rome currently carries the colours of Flynn's wife, but he is for sale if the price is right.

"We're delighted to have him as everyone needs a good horse and we really think we've got one," said the trainer.

"He's a half-brother to a Group Two winner and beautifully bred. He is actually for sale and I think anyone who buys him will be getting a top-class horse with stallion potential. There has been some interest already."