RACING:OSCAR TIME, runner-up in last season's John Smith's Grand National, starts on the road for another crack at the Aintree highlight when he reappears at Thurles today.

The 10-year-old, owned by Robert Waley-Cohen and ridden by his son Sam is among a field of five for the Rock Of Cashel Hurdle. Oscar Time began the last campaign by finishing second in this race 12 months ago and trainer Martin Lynch has mapped out a similar programme this time.

“He’s summered very well, he’s come back in, and his early training has gone very well,” said the Co Westmeath handler. “He’s more or less at the same stage of fitness as he was at this time last year when he ran in this race, which was a starting point then, as well.

“At the moment we have a similar plan to last year, but as we go along we’ll make it up if we have to. The idea is to end up at Aintree and do as good as last year or maybe three four or lengths better, if we can.

“The ground is particularly heavy, heavier than it was when we started him off last year. He’s handled it on other occasions and we’re hoping it’s not too heavy for his first run.”

Oscar Time’s rivals include last year’s Grade One novice hurdle winner Zaidpour, trained by Willie Mullins. The five-year-old steps up to this extended two and three-quarter miles for the first time and he should prove too good for his four rivals.

Meanwhile, Peter Schiergen reports Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Danedream in rude health ahead of the Japan Cup in Tokyo on Sunday.

The German-trained filly pleased connections when put through her paces on Wednesday morning.

“I asked the jockey to drive her a bit strongly in the last 600 metres. We used the dirt course because the turf was a bit too firm, but I’m very satisfied with the condition she is in,” said Schiergen.