Aitmatov on track for Tara

Noel Meade is confident Aitmatov can get off the mark for the campaign in the Giltspur Scientific Tara Hurdle at Navan on Sunday.

The seven-year-old has failed to hit front since winning last year’s Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse but was a creditable fourth in this season’s renewal at the end of last month.

“He ran really well in the Hatton’s Grace and he was getting to them all the time in the straight,” said Meade.

“I think he is a fitter horse now and he seems in really good form with himself so I’m expecting him to run a very nice race.”

Aitmatov will certainly not have things all his own way, however, with the likes of Clopf and Shakervilz sure to put up stern resistance.

The six-strong field is completed by Baron De Feypo, Moore’s Law and Give It Time.