Supermac's Rated Novice Hurdle

Fairly useful runner-up in 3 maidens prior to falling in last year's Fred Winter. Off the mark with ease in first-time hood at Bellewstown in April and ridden with an eye on the future (easy to back) on return at Listowel. May do better with hood refitted on first try at 2½m, especially if backed.

Opened his account in maiden hurdle at Punchestown in June. Disappointed over C&D prior to career best when 6½ lengths behind a useful winner at Killarney (23f) in August. Better than the beaten distance at Downpatrick last time, too, and he's feared if able to reproduce his Killarney form.

Arrives in top form. Drop back in trip no hindrance when making it 2 wins from 4 starts (runner-up twice in between) in a well-run Punchestown handicap last time. No guaranteed pace on this time, though he has made the running previously (typically finds plenty).

Maiden who hasn't been at his best in a couple of 2m events here in recent months. Stiff task at the weights, for all this step back up in trip can only benefit.

Low-mileage 6-y-o mare. Steadily progressive over hurdles, going one better than at Navan when off the mark in a Limerick maiden (21f, heavy) in April. Forecast rain no harm for one who'll stay further, and she may well progress again this season, especially if the money is down.