While most eyes are now firmly fixated on next week's Cheltenham Festival, racing enthusiasts have been provided with a fine appetiser at Naas on Sunday.
The feature race of the afternoon is the Grade 3 Naas Directors Plate Novice Chase and Noble Emperor will be fancied to improve upon his already impressive record having only found the Cheltenham-bound Very Wood too strong at Navan last month.
Tony Martin looks to have a fine prospect on his hands but he comes up against another classy performer in the shape of Rule The World, a dual Graded winner over hurdles and twice a runner-up in three starts over the larger obstacles.
The action gets underway at 2.25 and Tennis Cap is a fascinating runner in the Hospitality At Naas Racecourse Beginners Chase.
Willie Mullins' 2013 County Hurdle second hasn't been sighted for almost two years now but it seems significant that his master handler has been happy to adopt a patient approach with him and this looks a good spot for his return to action.
A cracking renewal of the Listed Irish Racing Writers Kingsfurze Novice Hurdle has been assembled with Gigginstown House Stud responsible for three promising runners alone.
The pick of that trio appears to be Identity Thief, previously unbeaten until struggling in Grade One company last time.
Paddy Power Chase winner Living Next Door will be bidding to plunder another decent prize when he lines up in the Woodlands Park 100 Club Leinster National Handicap Chase.
However, the handicapper has taken no chances with him and the likes of Letter Of Credit and Miss Xian appeal as solid alternatives.
Last Encounter chased home the smart Modem over hurdles on his debut and can go one better in the concluding Tipper Road INH Flat Race.
