THE growing appeal of Elusive Pimpernel among National Hunt breeders is understandable, and in the last two seasons he has covered an average of 170 mares. The son of Elusive Quality (Gone West) is at the Irish National Stud and is certain to be as busy as ever this year.

The 14-year-old Elusive Pimpernel’s reputation is being built on the success of Grade 2 winning chaser Ex Patriot, Grade 2 winning hurdler Coeur Sublime, Grade 3 winning hurdler Soviet Pimpernel, and now the listed winner Thedevilscoachman.