Gran Diose proves a grand steeple-chase Gr.1 winner for Planteur

The tough and consistent son of Planteur, Gran Diose, bravely fought out a tight finish to win the Grade 1 Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris at Auteuil today.

The eight-year-old has now won or been placed in an impressive 11 Stakes races over jumps. These include a Grade 2 double with victories in the Gr.2 Prix Georges Courtois and Gr.2 Grand Steeple-Chase de Compiegne, plus success in the Gr.3 Prix Romati Chase (pictured) and the Listed Prix Solitaire Chase all at Compiegne.

It was the third time his trainer Louisa Carberry has won this race, and it was a welcome success also for owner/breeders Luc Monnet and Frederic Hinderze.

Trainer Louisa Carberry said: "He’s a wonderful horse, and as fit and well as he can be. His breeders are incredible loyal, a big thanks to Fred and Luc who own him and bred him. He’s the best horse in world.“

A half-brother to Gr.3 Prix de la Gascogne winner Canichette (Prince Gibraltar), Gran Diose is out of Noanoa (Walk In The Park), a dual winner over hurdles at Auteuil and a half-sister to Listed hurdler winners/performers Arenui and Tjongejonge.

Gran Diose is Planteur’s best runner over jumps and hopefully one of many more to come. Over hurdles Planteur has also sired Gr.2 Premio Criterium di Primavera Hurdle winner Edidindo, and on the Flat the outstanding triple Gr.1 winner and triple Gr.2 QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup victor, Trueshan.