Forza Milan Sets Sights On Irish National

Forza Milan ( 9g Milan - Nonnetia, by Trempolino) gained a deserved win over fences when taking Sunday’s Beginner Chase at Fairyhouse.

A useful hurdler in the UK, the son of Milan made a bright start to his chasing career for the James Nash yard, including when finishing second in a Grade 3 Novice Chase and was last seen finishing fourth in a valuable stayers’ chase. Dropping back to two miles and five furlongs at the weekend, the bay raced prominently under Kevin Brouder and stayed on strongly in the closing stages to lead close home.

A step up in class is now on the cards for the winner, according to his trainer, who said, “He's after winning and being placed here a couple of times so I suppose the Irish National is going to be his aim. He ran so well in the Porterstown, so it's the obvious thing to do. Another mile, when they'll be going a stride slower, will suit him.”

Forza Milan’s family is no stranger to National success, with his full-brother One For Arthur (Milan) having captured the Aintree prize. Owned by the TSKOC Syndicate, Forza Milan was bred by John Dwan.