Blackmore looking forward to Notebook spin Rachael Blackmore is looking forward to getting back on board exciting two-mile chaser Notebook in the Grade 1 Paddy's Rewards Club Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas. Henry de Bromhead's charge returned in fine style at Naas last month when running out a wide margin winner of the Grade 2 Poplar Square Chase. The German-bred gelding was beaten favourite in last year's Arkle having previously landed two top-level successes at Leopardstown in his novice campaign. “We couldn't have been happier with him after Naas and he's going to come on fitness wise from that run as well,” said Blackmore. “It gives you a big thrill riding a horse like him and I'm really looking forward to him. “He has incredible scope and makes extremely good use of himself. Even when he's in tight he's very agile and he's able to get from one side of the fence to the other very efficiently at speed. He's a thrill to ride. “The Christmas festival at Leopardstown is something that you look forward to all year.” It is set to be a busy Christmas for Blackmore and she has another Grade 1 contender to look forward to when Aspire Tower lines up in the Matheson Hurdle. The Born To Sea gelding was second in last year's Triumph Hurdle and started this season when defeating Abacadabras at Down Royal. “He ran really well in Down Royal and he's a horse with a very exciting future,” said Blackmore. “Things went all wrong for him in Cheltenham last year but he still managed to get up the hill in second. “I think he has a bit future and he's a great one to have in the yard.” Blackmore received one of the main prizes at the recent Horse Racing Ireland Awards when presented with the National Hunt Award and added:- “To be even nominated for an award like that is a massive deal. “I'm in an unbelievable position to be associated with Henry de Bromhead's stable and be getting the opportunity on all these fantastic horses so long may it continue.”
