16:50 Killashee Hotel Handicap Hurdle (Grade B)

Race preview

TEKAO holds leading claims off a mark of 130 on just his second run in a handicap. The Willie Mullins-trained four-year-old was sent off favourite for the Boodles Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival but in truth, his chance had gone before the tapes went up. A buzzy sort, he suffered more than most from the false starts that plagued that particular race. Too keen in the initial stages, he never ran his race and is better than the bare form. Man O Work failed to complete on his last two starts but deserves consideration on his promising fourth placing at Fairyhouse in December. A strong traveller, he should enjoy the likely fast pace. Tax For Max was third in this contest last year and connections have probably had a repeat bid as a long-term target. He hinted at a revival when a close-up fifth at Fairyhouse last time.