Island set for return

Michael Hourigan has Church Island pencilled in to make his first start since April 2007 in The Star “Best For Racing Coverage” Chase at Punchestown on Thursday.

The nine-year-old won five times over fences in his novice chase season, and after losing his way somewhat subsequently, he appeared back to his best when last seen finishing fourth in the 2007 Irish Grand National.

The gelding has been out of action since due to injury but Hourigan is hopeful he is still up to making his mark in the new campaign.

“He just had one or two niggly little things, nothing serious, but we just decided to give him all last season off,” said Hourigan.

“He was very smart as a novice but he has had lots of little problems and it stopped him from racing.

“I still think he retains all of his old ability but he will obviously come on for the run if he does take his chance at Punchestown.

“I’m thinking about maybe going for the Hennessy at Newbury afterwards but we will just have to wait and see.”