Kopek reported to be doing well as Leopardstown looms
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Wed 21 Jan 2026
Kopek Des Bordes appears firmly on course for an appearance in the Goffs Irish Arkle Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Saturday week after connections declared “all roads are leading to the Dublin Racing Festival at the moment”.
Willie Mullins’ Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner dazzled on his chasing debut at Navan in November, but missed an intended run in Grade One company over the Christmas period after a “small hiccup” in his preparation.
He is now back in full work and was put through his paces at the Curragh earlier this week, with owner Charles McCarthy telling the Press Association on Wednesday: “All roads are leading to the Dublin Racing Festival at the moment.
“Patrick (Mullins) has said he rode Kopek Des Bordes at the Curragh yesterday and he gave him a very good feeling. He’s doing everything that is asked of him and should make the Dublin Racing Festival.
“Looking at pictures of him from today, he looks superb and is back now in full training and Patrick was very happy with him.”
Kopek Des Bordes has developed quite a following during his short career to date, with his enthusiastic owner excited his legion of fans will get to see him in action on January 31.
McCarthy added: “You have no idea the amount of pressure we feel to have so many people in love with our horse. There will be people coming over especially to see him and there will be a big crowd over from England for the weekend.”
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