Concertista stretches out in trip for Limerick’s Grade Two highlight on Tuesday but still looks the one to beat.
It will be just her second start over fences when she lines up for the Boylesports Dawn Run Mares Novice Chase although inexperience doesn’t appear to be much of an issue with Concertista.
It didn't stop Willie Mullins pitching her straight into a Grade Two at Cork earlier this month and she made light work of that with a narrow but ultimately authoritative victory over Jeremy's Flame with Sayce Gold back in fourth.
That was over an extended two miles and Mullins has opted to go out over an extra six furlongs for her Christmas assignment.
That is the furthest this high-class mare has ever gone and she also has to concede a 5lbs penalty to half a dozen rivals on very testing ground.
However, her hurdling career underlined how classy an operator Concertista can be and Mullins’s readiness to test her versatility suggests a fifth career victory is on the cards.
Testing ground won't be an issue for Full Time Score in the €40,000 Tim Duggan Handicap Chase while the step up to three miles could suit That's Lifebuoy in a handicap hurdle after a decent run on St Stephen's Day.
The good form enjoyed by Gordon Elliott’s team is evident through the festive period and can continue at Limerick.
Monkstreet was a decent third to Grand Jury at Punchestown last month and that looks to set the benchmark in the opening maiden hurdle.
Bold Getaway was beaten at Clonmel on his last start but can go one better in the other maiden while newcomer Boulon Trou is one to check out in the bumper.
