Cromwell eyes Limerick Grade Three for Espoir D'allen Gavin Cromwell is thinking of keeping Espoir D’allen to Grade Three company for the Irish Independent Hurdle on day three of the Christmas meeting at Limerick. The four-year-old, owned by JP McManus, made a winning return after 279 days at this level at Naas. It was his first run since he was beaten at odds-on after winning his first four starts over hurdles. He had been a leading fancy for the Triumph Hurdle up to that point and could meet the first two home in the Cheltenham juvenile championship, Farclas and Mr Adjudicator. Farclas is among four from the Gordon Elliott stable along with Commander Of Fleet, Mitchouka and Star Maker. Mr Adjudicator is one of four possibles trained by Willie Mullins along with Elimay, Saglawy and Stormy Ireland. Pleasant Company, runner-up in last season’s Randox Health Grand National, is among 17 entries for the Sky Sports Launching Jan 1st Novice Hurdle at the Patrickswell course on the Saturday. This Grade Two contest over three miles is one of three options over the festive period for the Mullins-trained 10-year-old. Mullins has also put in Dorrells Pierji, Pleasure Dome and Stay Humble. Gordon Elliott has given Commander Of Fleet this option as well and has five others — Defi Bleu, Felix Desjy, Monbeg Worldwide, Satoshi and Tintangle.
