Limerick

With an official rating of 136, LE COQ HARDI sets a good standard and goes well fresh. The dual hurdles winner can make the breakthrough over fences now, following some good runs in defeat with good ground to suit. Shadow Paddy made rapid progress over hurdles last season, including a Listed win at this track. An Aintree Grade 1 was a bridge too far last time, but this is more realistic for his chasing debut. Ocastle Des Mottes is entitled to respect with Townend aboard. [Denis Harney]