Kopek Des Bordes all set to light up Navan for owner McCarthy

There will be plenty of nerves but even more excitement at Navan on Saturday where the pride and joy of the McCarthy family, Kopek Des Bordes, makes his eagerly-awaited chasing debut.

Willie Mullins’ supremely talented five-year-old has already given owner Charles McCarthy and his sons a day to remember when winning the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, but there are now dreams of even greater days with attentions turned this season to the larger obstacles.

“He’s been a revelation for me and the boys and the joy he has given us, money couldn’t buy it,” said McCarthy ahead of the Pat Sheils Memorial Irish EBF Beginners Chase.

“I am a little nervous ahead of Saturday as we have had a lot of rain, but he has schooled very well and as we all know he was a little suspect last year at some of his hurdles and having seen him school, his jumping has to be admired – he’s respecting the fences a lot better than he did hurdles.

“If it all goes ahead he should win and we look forward to seeing him.”

Kopek Des Bordes’ ability and early accolades on track have already seen him drum up a legion of supporters, but the enthusiasm of his owners has also not been lost on the passionate jumps racing fraternity.

Although, hailing from the all-conquering Closutton set-up, the early Arkle favourite’s personable connections ensure he can at least lay claim to representing the man on the street on the big-stage.

And with only bigger and better expected in his new discipline, the Kopek Des Bordes journey could only just be beginning.

“I’ve always owned a number of horses throughout my life but I’ve been so lucky to come across this guy that I thank God every time I wake up,” added McCarthy.

“He’s frightening and he would frighten anyone, he just has an engine in him that is hard to believe.

“We’ll all be there and the public seem to love him and that might be because of myself and the boys, but we love the joy he seems to bring to people.”