The winter isn't the same without Thurles on Thursday and the Co Tipperary track stages it's first meeting of the season at 1.55pm.
The Vendee Hurdle sees the seasonal reappearance of Eric McNamara's 149 rated hurdler Strangely Brown.
The 5yo son of Second Empire, a winner at Aintree in April, faces opposition from Noel Meade's Wild Passion and 130 rated Ray Boy while chasers Barrow Drive and Strong Project are also in the field.
Wild Passion is himself making his seasonal reappearance following some good efforts over fences last season and rates biggest danger while Ray Boy does have the benefit of a recent run but may lack a little of Strangely Brown's class
Eddie Harty's Baron De'l can gain an overdue success in the Horse And Jockey Maiden.
Rated 84, the son of In The Wings was second at Navan recently with today's opponent Melilotus in fourth while 80 rated Jayo has claims following a runner-up effort at Tramore recently.
The Killinan 3YO Maiden Hurdle can see Edward O'Grady's Belord defeat Victoria Night while the concluding Holycross Handicap Hurdle can go to Genger, under Ruby Walsh.
