Son Of Yeats Not For Catching On Chase Debut

The Nicky Henderson-trained Royal Ruby (9g Yeats - Close Harmoney, by Bustino) could hardly have been more impressive on his chase debut at Stratford on Sunday.

Successful on his sole bumper start and a winner over hurdles, Mrs Rita Brown’s homebred was making his first start since February of last year, but was sent off second favourite under Nico de Boinville. Racing over two and a half miles, he made all of the running and went clear from the second last, going on to score by 23 lengths with ease.

The son of Yeats is bred to excel over fences, as a close relation to Listed winner and Grade 1 performer Barbers Shop (Saddlers’ Hall).