Gordon Elliott is double-handed as he bids to land the Grade Two Irish Form Book 'Monksfield' Novice Hurdle at Navan for the second year running.
All eyes will be on his unbeaten Bonisland, who shaped like he had a big future when scoring with ease on his hurdling bow, but his stablemate Shrapnel completed a double in good style at Fairyhouse on Wednesday and is far from out of it.
The County Meath handler's duo could have most to fear from Rule The World, a head second to Our Vinnie in a Grade Three contest at Cork earlier three weeks ago, while Dessie Hughes' Seefood steps up in trip as he bids for a four-timer and shouldn't be underestimated.
The most valuable race on the seven-race card is the Ladbrokes Troytown Handicap Chase, and comfortable Fakenham winner Romanesco is sure to be popular with punters with Ruby Walsh is doing the steering.
Tofino Bay found one too good when bidding to make it two from two over fences in a Grade Three event and is very interesting on his handicap chase debut, while last-time-out winners Faltering Fullback, Orpheus Valley and Kyle's Turn will have their supporters in a wide-open contest.
Honey Bach will have to defy a double penalty if she's to complete a hat-trick in the closing ITBA Fillies Scheme E.B.F. Mares Flat Race, but the manner of her facile Punchestown triumph latest suggests this Listed prize is well within her capabilities.
Action gets under way at 12.25 with the I.N.H. Stallion Owners E.B.F. Maiden Hurdle, at which Elliott also launches a two-pronged assault, with his Torn Asunder setting a higher form standard than Bronze Adonis thanks to a good second on his hurdling bow.
Noel Meade has his string in fine form and he has strong claims in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners E.B.F. Maiden Hurdle and Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. Beginners Chase courtesy of Ally Cascade and Sword Of Destiny respectively.
