REPORTED to have "schooled" very well prior to his hurdles debut at Leopardstown, Dr Michael Smurfit's Humbel was something of a Christmas disappointment in finishing third, eight lengths behind Bukhari. He had, after all, finished closer to the Derby winner, Lammtara, when as a three year old he was 8th of 15 in the Epsom classic.

Brittle feet have dogged his racing career but if anywhere near his best, he should outgallop his 29 rivals in the Fanmond Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse this afternoon.

Despite the number of rivals, the only real danger may come from Digin For Gold who like

Humbel is owned by a former chairman of the Racing Board, Denis McCarthy. He, too, was a well backed Leopardstown loser when third to Finnegans Hollow and Be Home Early, both of whom have been beaten since.

All In The Game turned out to be a very cleverly named winners at Punchestown, for while he drifted out to an SP of 16 to 1, there was plenty of money after the "off", indicating that the major business had been done off course.

The gamble was duly landed with some comfort and in victory he beat Baile Na Gcloch, carrying a statutory 4lb penalty for a seven lengths win at Fairyhouse three days earlier. All In The Game should win again off a mark 7lb - higher in the Impudent Barney Handicap Chase.

For the nap I go for the well reported Colonel Henderson in the Clonee Flat Race. This is a first run for the Aidan O'Brien trained - five year old but he promises to be a horse with a future.