Monksfield Hurdle Preview

Two of the most formidable forces in racing team up at Navan tomorrow as Tony McCoy rides the Aidan O'Brien-trained Carriganog in what promises to be an informative renewal of the 'Monksfield' Novice Hurdle.

The master of Ballydoyle has introduced a few National Hunt newcomers in recent months, with this four-year-old making a big impression when victorious on his hurdling bow at Clonmel in early October.

He was quickly snapped up by JP McManus and began to repay the leading owner's faith by winning at Wexford a few weeks later.

O'Brien's inmate features in an intriguing field of eight runners in the Grade Two heat and McManus's racing manager, Frank Berry, is hoping the youngster will handle the step up in class.

Berry said: "He has won his two hurdle races nicely. It was quite a weak contest at Wexford, but he did it nicely and it's time for him to step up in class now."

Of McCoy riding for O'Brien, he went on: "He has had a few rides for Aidan in the past, but I think that's going back a few years now. Aidan is happy with the horse. Let's hope he runs a nice race."

Willie Mullins is double-handed, with Alelchi Inois joined by stable companion Devils Bride.

The trainer's son, Patrick, said: "Both horses are well and want dry ground, which hopefully they'll get on Sunday. Hopefully they'll run well, but it is a big step up for them."

Devils Bride is one of three declared runners for Gigginstown House Stud, with the Eoin Griffin-trained Azorian and Empire Of Dirt from Colm Murphy's yard also in the field.

Griffin is hoping Azorian can handle the rise in grade following his impressive all-the-way win on his hurdling debut at Cork earlier this month.

The trainer said: "He's in good order. It represents a step up for him and we'll keep our fingers crossed and see how he goes in it. He has come out of Cork in great form and he looks a very nice prospect. We'd be expecting him to improve a little bit from the run. All being well, hopefully he'll give a good account of himself."

Paul Fahey believes a decent pace will bring the best out of relentless galloper Lots Of Memories. The six-year-old was a smooth 10-length winner of a Grade Three contest over three miles and steps back in trip.

The County Kildare handler said: "He did his last piece of work on Wednesday. The good novice hurdlers are coming out now, so we are going to have to take something on."

Noel Meade saddles Apache Stronghold, with Robert Murphy's in-form mare Mrs Mac Veale completing the field.