Thornton returns at Dundalk Andrew Thornton makes his return to the saddle at Dundalk on Friday night and trainer Pat Martin is hopeful that he will have a winning comeback on Reckless Lad. Thornton, who rides both on the Flat and over jumps, enjoyed his finest hour when Lion Na Bearnai won the Irish National at Fairyhouse in 2012. He has been out of action since a schooling fall in mid-October but returns with one ride on the all-weather. Reckless Lad was twice successful over a mile at the course in the autumn and Martin is hoping he can handle the slight drop in trip. "It's a slight concern coming back to seven furlongs as we've been riding him to come home well in his races," said the Navan trainer. "It's important that he relaxes early on and the faster pace will suit. It may just be on the short side but he's in good form. "He's a horse that's after bucking up (his ideas) a bit. He has a decent draw and we're expecting a good run. "It's Andrew's first ride back since he hurt his shoulder and ankle. It's nice to be able to give him a ride as he's been out a long time." Eddie Lynam saddles course and distance winner Doc Holliday, who carries top-weight and renews rivalry with Reckless Lad having finished a length third to the Martin runner last time out. Lynam said: "He's got plenty of weight and the handicapper put him up again while he was standing in his box. "I thought he had plenty to do against Elusive In Paris but he's in very good form and will like the distance. "You just have to wonder if he's capable of winning off 79."
