Nolan hoping Logic steps up Paul Nolan is hoping Defy Logic can make the step up in the Grade 2 paddypower.com Novice Hurdle at Naas on Sunday. The JP McManus-owned gelding has blown his opposition away on his last two starts and is held in high regard by the Wexford handler. The Flemensfirth gelding opened his hurdling account in great style at Fairyhouse earlier this month but faces tougher opposition now. Rivals include classy performers Don Cossack and Moscow Mannon as well as unbeaten mare Annie Power. “He's in good form. It's a very competitive looking race and could easily be a Grade One, but that's the way those graded races should be – they should be good races,” said Nolan. “It won't be the end of the world if he doesn't win as he's still a nice prospect. It's a step up so hopefully he runs well and jumps well. Tony McCoy comes over for the ride so hopefully everything goes well. “We're very fond of him and know what we think he is capable of, hopefully, in the future. He'll come on from the race, experience wise, and he's a chaser in the making. “He'll handle nicer ground as well, and it should be a bit better than they've been racing on all winter.”
