Murphy looks to Punchestown with Roque

Quito De La Roque could bid for further big-race glory in the Growise Champion Novice Chase at the Punchestown Festival.

Colm Murphy’s charge disproved the theory that he needed testing conditions to be seen at his best when he won his third Grade Two race of the season at Aintree.

The seven-year-old has only lost once over fences, to subsequent RSA Chase winner Bostons Angel at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting.

He is likely to step back up to the highest level next month, as long as the ground is safe.

“He’s come out of the race well, and handled the ground OK,” said the Wexford handler.

“But it was genuine good ground and we are mindful that we want to have a horse for the future. He does handle soft ground much better than most horses.

“He will get an entry in the Growise Champion Novice Chase at Punchestown, and we will see what the weather does. I’ll have to talk it over with the owner to see if we will run.”