SEABOROUGH handler Harry Fry was delighted to see six-year-old American triumph at Exeter under the guidance of Noel Fehily on Sunday.

The 3-1 shot made all the running to set up a scintillating start to his career over fences, winning the Bathwick Tyres Novices’ Chase by two-and-a-quarter lengths.

That triumph landed American’s connections £9,495 in prize money, and Fry insisted “we can have a bit of fun with him in the next few months” as the ground continues to soften.

Speaking on his official website, Dorset trainer Fry said: “The deluge of rain which fell at the course overnight was extremely welcome for this talented but rather fragile young horse, who has not been the easiest to train as he has had trouble with his knees. That is why this was only his fourth start under National Hunt rules.

“So I would say that even after two inches of rain the ground was only just soft enough for American, who set off in front, jumping boldly and accurately.

“He was never headed and kept on strongly in the final straight to hold the persistent challenge of Label Des Obeaux.”

Fry added: “Noel Fehily was delighted by this fine debut over fences by American and suggested he might be the right type for the Welsh Grand National next season.

“Hopefully we can have a bit of fun with him in the next few months over the depths of the winter while there is plenty of cut in the ground.”

n At the same meeting Third Act (11-4) triumphed for Sherborne handler Colin Tizzard, and fellow Dorset trainer Robert Walford scored with Walk In The Mill.