Winner Giantofaman (right) jumps the last with Urano (eventual 2nd) at Thurles© Photo Healy Racing
Devils Bride continues his hurdling education in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Novice Hurdle at Thurles on Thursday.
Willie Mullins' charge justified long odds-on favouritism to score over the smaller obstacles for the first time at Limerick last month, and having put five lengths between himself and his nearest rival, he will be difficult to stop.
The biggest challenger appears to be stablemate Perfect Gentleman but with the on-fire Ruby Walsh electing to ride Devils Bride instead, it's tough to look elsewhere.
Gigginstown House Stud field another exciting prospect in the opening www.thurlesraces.ie Beginners Chase at 12.25 in Trifolium
Charles Byrnes' contender was third in the 2012 Supreme Novices' Hurdle but had his season cut short when tailing off in heavy conditions in the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle last term.
However, he has the class necessary to take this now switching to chasing.
Bryan Cooper can go close again if first-time blinkers do the trick on Giantofaman in the Munster (C & G) Maiden Hurdle.
Dessie Hughes' inmate is enigmatic to say the least and has thrown away his chances on a couple of occasions by hanging violently, but with blinkers replacing a hood, he may be worth one last try.< Kalico Kim is also one to watch out for in the competitive Thurles Handicap Chase, in which 18 runners are due to go to post.
John Ryan's mare shaped as if further would suit when finishing fifth in Grade Three company at Clonmel last week and has a lively chance.
Another big field takes to the track for the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle, where Bank Bonus could be in the money.
Formerly trained on the Flat by Andrew Balding for The Queen, the son of Motivator has improved with each run over obstacles and seems set to step up for the extra yardage he gets here.
The final Liscahill INH Flat Race can go the way of Western Boy who appeared to have retained the promise of last season when rattling the crossbar last month.
