COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE

2.10: 2 MILES 1 FURLONG

FIRST STREET ran a fine race to chase home Champion Hurdle runner-up State Man in this event 12 months ago and could go one better now he has had a wind operation and been equipped with a tongue tie.

He underperformed at Wincanton last time, but appears much better suited by a big-field handicap than a small conditions race.

FILEY BAY is also sporting a tongue tie for the first time and there was much to admire in his fine second to Aucunrisque in the Betfair Hurdle last time, as the duo pulled 11 lengths clear of Teddy Blue in third.

He has clearly been laid out for a tilt at this race and looks to still be improving.

That comment doesn’t necessarily apply to BALLYADAM but he ran a blinder behind Gaelic Warrior last month at Leopardstown and was fifth in this contest in 2022.