Larkwing could beone for the locals

Limerick Preview: Local trainer Eric McNamara looks to provide the solution to today's conditions hurdle at Limerick with Larkwing set to make a successful return to jumping.

The former English-trained stayer hasn't been seen in a jumps race since last April when running fourth to a high-class operator in Tidal Bay at the Aintree Grand National meeting.

However, Larkwing has been busy on the flat and wound up that campaign in Leopardstown's November Handicap when eighth in the valuable November Handicap.

His hurdles rating gives him a clear shout in this afternoon's two-mile-three-furlong race against the likes of Alexander Taipan who returns to flights from jumping fences and the former top bumper performer Leading Run who has yet to make a similar impact over hurdles.

Coolcashin could make it a true stamina test in the manner of many of the Michael Bowe string but that will be no problem to Larkwing who can provoke some local celebration.

The McNamara team also look to have a leading player in the featured €45,000 Duggan Memorial Handicap Chase in the shape of Marhaba Million who belied 20 to 1 odds with a good second to Glencove Marina in a Navan novice chase.

Off a low weight, the novice will be fancied to go one better but this trip and this ground look to be ideal for the ex-hunter Ballistraw who can return to action with a win.

Ground conditions are much more testing in the south than at Leopardstown but that won't be any problem to Bridge Run who can win for the first time over fences in the Beginners Chase.

Stamina is the Noel Meade-trained horses's strong suit and this two-and-three-quarter-mile journey will be right up Bridge Run's alley. He also has a nice bit of from to boast with a third to Notable D'Estruval and Notre Pere at Fairyhouse already under his belt.

Kasimali won on testing conditions at Gowran and can win the handicap hurdle today.