Thurles preview

With the Cheltenham Festival drawing ever closer, Thurles is tasked with keeping punters occupied and the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Novice Chase (1.55) is of particular interest.

This looks chiefly to concern Carrigeen Lechuga and Definite Class, who reoppose having fought out out a good battle over two and three-quarter miles here two weeks ago.

The step up to three miles is expected to suit the Dessie Hughes-trained Definite Class who, although proving a little erratic at her fences, does appear to be improving on that score and meets her conqueror on 5lb better terms this time around.

With Hughes due to take the wraps off current Triumph Hurdle favourite Minsk at the weekend, the stable will be hoping for a nice tonic here after a number of near misses in the last month.

The following Horse And Jockey Handicap Chase looks particularly trappy, although The Book Thief seems sure to prove popular following his much improved second at Clonmel last week. That is certainly the pick of recent form on offer in this event.

The two maiden hurdles on the card ought to prove far more informative, with Silver Shuffle the one to beat in the Holy Cross Maiden Hurdle.

The five-year-old was last seen finishing third to Supreme Novices' Hurdle hopeful Midnight Game at Leopardstown and connections of the latter will be hoping to see that form franked.

The Cashel Maiden Hurdle sees Douneve tackle timber for the first time having been turned over at odds-on on debut in a course bumper just before Christmas.

He is evidently thought capable of better, but faces stiff opposition from dual runner-up Mazuri Cowboy and point-to-point winner Mr BB.

The action draws to a close with the Munster INH Flat Race, in which Jupitor boasts strong form claims following two solid placed efforts in bumpers at Gowran Park and Down Royal.