Racing News round-up:  Solerina has emerged "kicking and squealing" from her Christmas defeat at Leopardstown and will return to the Dublin track for the AIG Irish Champion Hurdle on January 23rd if the conditions are suitable.

The James Bowe-trained mare faded to fourth behind Macs Joy in the Bewleys Hotels December Festival Hurdle on Wednesday but her connections yesterday pointed to both the ground and the inside circuit at Leopardstown as mitigating factors.

"That inner track suits some horses more than others and that is probably as good as our horse is in those conditions," said Michael Bowe.

"We will look at the AIG provided the race is run on an outside course. She needs space to gallop and loves tracks like Fairyhouse and Navan where she can beat the opposition out in the country.

"Wednesday's race was always going to be against her and I knew down the back she was beaten. I know the ground was officially soft but it was a lot better than it had been on the first three days," he said.

Solerina was extended in the Smurift Champion Hurdle market after Wednesday but that is a race that is not pre-occupying her trainer.

"We have never been that hell-bent on Cheltenham anyway," said Bowe. "I certainly haven't backed her myself!"

Solerina spent yesterday alongside veteran stable companion Limestone Lad and although Bowe ruled out a return this season for Limestone, he didn't want to use the word retirement.

"Unless you throw away the passport or burn it, you should never retire a horse. They can surprise you," Bowe declared.

Beef Or Salmon has also emerged in fine shape from his Lexus Chase success and will get a few day's rest before beginning his preparation for the Hennessy Gold Cup on February 6th.

Trainer Michael Hourigan's secretary, Tracey Hennessy said: "He is in great form and is bucking out in the field. He will have an easy couple of days now."