Trainer Gordon Elliott, successful with Don Cossack in last week’s Punchestown Gold Cup, started the new jumps season in style when sharing a double with amateur rider Barry O’Neill in Down Royal yesterday.

John F Kennedy lost his place as favourite for the Investec Derby after finishing a well-beaten last of three on his seasonal debut at Leopardstown.

Neptune Investments Novices Hurdle: The strength of the Willie Mullins novice brigade is again in evidence and his Nichols Canyon pips stable companion Outlander for favouritism. Both have strong claims, but Tell Us More may be forgiven his defeat on his most recent outing, and is also a player.

Unbeaten in three outings this season, Kitten Rock should book his ticket to the Stan James Champion Hurdle by landing the Grade 2 Red Mills Trial Hurdle in Gowran Park today. 

Jim Dreaper plans to target Los Amigos at the Irish Grand National after the eight-year-old made a triumphant return following a 328-day absence at Fairyhouse on Saturday.

The Dermot Weld-Davy Russell combination hasn’t exactly set the winter alight, but can begin to redress the balance by landing the Online Discounts @fairyhouse.ie Maiden Hurdle at the Co Meath track this afternoon with Zafayan.

Dermot Weld’s Brooch put up a fine performance to land the Listed Vincent O’Brien Ruby Stakes at Killarney last night.