Martin upbeat after Dedigout defeat Tony Martin remains upbeat about the long-term prospects of Dedigout - even though he suffered a first defeat over hurdles at Naas yesterday. The Punchestown and Navan winner was sent off the hot favourite for the Grade Two Slaney Novice Hurdle, but had to make do with an honourable third behind runaway winner Monksland. Martin feels his charge performed with credit, and sees him as a staying chaser for the future. "There's not a bother on him and it wasn't a bad run," said the County Meath handler. "He's still inexperienced and he got in a bit close to the second-last. "The winner was impressive and we were just beaten by a better horse on the day. "Our lad is a real staying chaser in the making and there is still plenty to look forward to with him."
