There is pre-Christmas action for punters to sink their teeth into at Navan and the Santa Claus Maiden Hurdle gets the fixture under way at 12.20.

With 60 runners split between the first two races, luck in running will play a vital role in the outcome, but Quempton will be on most shortlists for the opener.

Fourth on both of his starts so far, Noel Meade's charge has experience on his side, which could prove so important in a field of this size.

The same can be said of Strange Encounter though, while the market will be the best guide to the chances of JP McManus's newcomer Carey's Road.

The 2009 Navan Membership Maiden Hurdle sees the return of Shouldertoshoulder after a year-long absence.

The winning pointer was beaten only a neck by Taravada in a good race at Leopardstown and probably has Meade's Archiestown, All Diamonds and Fosters Cross to beat.

Meade also appears to hold a strong hand in the Christmas Greetings Handicap Hurdle with the consistent Rocheford Bridge.

The handicapper isn't relenting and should another 1lb hike prove beyond him, the returning Limestream could be the one to capitalise.

Mustangsallyrally attempts to supplement a determined Fairyhouse success in the Christmas Cracker Handicap Hurdle, but Mystical Breeze is making great strides and last year's Paddy Power Chase winner Newbay Prop remains on an attractive mark in this sphere.

The latter's stablemate Le Marquis goes for gold in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase and will strip fitter for his recent return from a lengthy absence.

Golden Silver will be a tough nut to crack for the all-conquering Mullins/Townend combination, however, particularly as he emerged from the Drinmore with plenty of credit in fourth.

Hairy Molly is proving frustrating to follow but is the class act of the 'Prancer And Dancer' Handicap Chase - providing things go right for him - while Earth Mother is capable of conceding weight all round in the concluding Kilmessan GAA INH Flat Race.

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