Apache in search of Navan scalps

Apache Stronghold clashes with Champion Bumper hero Briar Hill in what promises to be a hugely informative Navan Novice Hurdle tomorrow.

Third behind The Liquidator in the Grade One bumper at the Punchestown Festival in the spring, the Noel Meade-trained Apache Stronghold scraped home on his hurdling debut at the same track in mid-October.

However, he was far more impressive when landing the Monksfield Novice Hurdle over this weekend’s course and distance and he now steps back up to the highest level for a race Meade won with Aran Concerto seven years ago. The trainer said: “All has gone well since the last day. We couldn’t be happier with him at home.