We kick off the weekend with 8 runners in Punchestown today.

In the opener, the novice hurdle, we send out PLAYTIME. Third in handicap company at Tramore last time out, he holds a good each way chance but wouldn’t want the ground conditions to get much softer. James Smith rides.

We saddle two runners in the 3mile beginners chase. KAINSBOURG debuts over fences today. A winner and placed over 2m4f over hurdles, he should appreciate the step up in trip and will be the mount of Kevin Sexton. WENDROCK is another having his first start over the larger obstacles. His hurdling form slightly tapered off at the end of last season but hopefully he can show a good account of himself under James Smith.

In division 1 of the maiden hurdle we are represented by LUCKY SIGNAL who makes his hurdling debut. He hasn’t shown much in his bumpers but we are hoping he will come into himself over obstacles. James Smith is booked to ride.

Division 2 of the maiden hurdle sees bumper winner LIZZIE TWIGG head out on her hurdling debut. Last seen finishing 5th in a listed contest at Fairyhouse over Easter, she has been schooling well at home and holds a strong chance under Kevin Sexton.

We’re double handed in the 2m3f maiden hurdle. BROTHER WALFRID reverts back to hurdling after finishing 4th in a bumper last time out. He was second on his debut back in Fairyhouse at Easter and if he can replicate that form here today he should be in with a good chance of finishing in the frame under Kevin Sexton. MISERY HILL has been well held in both of his hurdling starts to date and will need to take a step forward from what he has shown so far. Paddy Cleary takes the ride.

Our final runner of the day is RETURNING OFFICER in the bumper. He finished a respectable 5th in Kilbeggan last time out after having a long lay off and this galloping track should be more to his liking. Harry Swan rides.