Mouse Morris insists a good round of jumping is the primary objective for First Lieutenant in the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse this afternoon.
The six-year-old won the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at last season's Cheltenham Festival, and has made a decent start to his career over fences without being spectacular.
Morris is keen for his charge to get plenty of experience over fences and sees this weekend's contest as another stepping-stone along the way.
"The main thing we're looking for on Sunday is to see him jump round and jump well. If he wins, I'll be delighted," said Morris.
"He's a horse I want to get plenty of experience into and that's the main reason he's running on Sunday really.
"We know he handles softer ground as he's won on it before, but he's not at his best on it. I'm hoping he'll come to his best in the spring. We'll get Sunday out of the way and then maybe look for something around Christmas time."
Owners Gigginstown House Stud have a hugely strong hand, with First Lieutenant, Bog Warrior and Rivage D'Or all lining up.
Retained rider Davy Russell takes the ride on First Lieutenant, but Bog Warrior's trainer Tony Martin is pleased Ruby Walsh will take over the reins on his charge.
"He's only had four runs in his life but he's a very good horse and it's only a small field, so it should be good experience for him," said Martin.
"It's a very good race. First Lieutenant is a good horse and a Cheltenham Festival winner.
"Davy rides him and it's always hard to get off a Cheltenham winner, but our horse has got a great man on his back in Ruby. The ground won't be a problem for him, so hopefully he can run well."
Joining the Gigginstown trio are Paul Nolan's pair Alpha Ridge and Shinrock Paddy and Imperial Shabra from the Oliver Brady yard.
