17:30 McHale Mayo Handicap Hurdle

Race preview

TROUBLED TIMES was a Listed bumper winner and can continue to make use of a favourable handicap rating. She is 9lb higher than when winning at at Cork recently but could be suited by today's extra distance and likes a sound surface. Lady Rita did well in the circumstances to finish 21 lengths fourth at Kilbeggan, where her rider misjudged the number of circuits. She also blundered badly at the third-last but still managed to beat today's rivals The Little Yank and Run For Pat. Prince Zaltar competes from a career high mark having won at Killarney but is thoroughly progressive and likes good ground. Merlin Giant is trip-versatile but concedes plenty weight while Ambitious Fellow should improve significantly from seasonal reappearance and likes good ground and this distance. Dollar Value was unsuited by soft on recent flat runs but is capable over hurdles on good ground. Power Of Pause needs to return to form while veteran Gold Speed has been running well and steps up in distance. Fruit Blossom steps up in grade following her Wexford win.