Albert Bartlett favourite Holymacapony faces Envoi Allen half-brother in Grade 2

1.35 Navan
BetVictor Make Your Best Bet Novice Hurdle (Grade 2) | 2m4f | 4yo+ | ITV4/RTV

This Grade 2, registered as the Navan Novice Hurdle, has a rich history of producing top-class performers and threw up the 2020 Albert Bartlett runner-up 12 months ago in Latest Exhibition.

This time the race offers an opportunity to learn more about the current favourite for the Albert Bartlett, with the exciting Holymacapony out to build on a promising rules debut success at Punchestown five weeks ago.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained four-year-old, who joined his team after a commanding seven-length point-to-point win in February, was hugely impressive when getting the better of a €250,000 French recruit from the Willie Mullins stable.

Fakiera: posted a likeable performance in the Grade 3 BetVictor Casino 'Monksfield' Novice HurdleCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Carrying the same Barry Moloney colours as some of de Bromhead's leading lights, the bright young prospect faces a strong test against six useful rivals, two of whom are provided by Gordon Elliott.

The top trainer is seeking his third win in the race, having seen his Andy Dufresne turned over at 1-3 last year, and sends out recent Grade 3 Monksfield Novice Hurdle winner Fakiera and Champion Bumper fifth Eskylane, who disappointed as 5-4 favourite in the Grade 3 For Auction Novice Hurdle last month.

Jack Kennedy partners Fakiera, a top price 33-1 for the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle, and carries a 3lb Graded penalty, while his stablemate has a tongue-tie added for the first time.

The Willie Mullins-trained Fighter Allen, a half-brother to Envoi Allen, created a favourable impression when winning on debut for the stable at Punchestown and looks the sort to keep progressing with more experience.

Fighter Allen: half-brother to Envoi Allen impressed when winning at Punchestown last monthCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

This stamina test should suit him well, while Gabynako, representing Gavin Cromwell, is entitled to a crack at this level after getting off the mark in good style at Naas four weeks ago.

Lieutenant Command looked useful when winning at Galway in October but will need to jump better than last time when down the field behind Fakiera, while Ashdale Bob returned to his best after a break on the same card and faces a tougher task now.

What they say

Henry de Bromhead, trainer of Holymacapony
He seems in great form. He won his maiden hurdle really nicely at Punchestown, so this seemed the right step forward for him. We'll see where we are on Friday.

Gavin Cromwell on Gabynako: 'He's a horse we've always liked'Credit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Jessica Harrington, trainer of Ashdale Bob
We were delighted with his win last time on his first start back for some time. It's a big step up for him but we know he likes Navan and we're happy to take our chance.

Willie Mullins, trainer of Fighter Allen
He won well at Punchestown and the conditions of this race seem to suit him. We're hoping he can step up into this class. He looks a real staying type for the future.

Gavin Cromwell, trainer of Gabynako
He was good and professional at Naas and has been in good nick since. Hopefully, the step up in trip will bring out improvement in him; it needs to as this is a good race. He's a horse we've always liked.

Noel Meade, trainer of Lieutenant Command
He jumped terribly last time and we were very disappointed with him, but hopefully he'll be a better proposition now. We think he has plenty of ability.

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