Thurles Preview:There will be plenty of interest in the jumping debut of Via Mantua at Thurles this afternoon where the ex-John Oxx-trained filly has her first start for Philip Rothwell in the three-year-old maiden hurdle over two miles.
The Halling filly was a late starter during a short flat career for Oxx but two wins from two starts indicated that Via Mantua possesses more than a little talent.
A debut win at Galway was followed with a Gowran handicap success off an official mark of 77 and also left the impression of a horse rapidly on the upgrade.
It's significant she goes jumping so quickly after leaving the Curragh and her flat form gives her a clear edge over the Sligo winner Sonnium and the experienced Amidreamin.
Barry Geraghty has a potential lucrative Grade One weekend looming but that hasn't stopped the former champion jockey from taking on today's Beginners Chase with Albanov.
Two runs over the course recently suggest a race like this is well within the grasp of Jessica Harrington's runner.
The Michael Bowe team can warm up for Sweet Kiln's Hatton's Grace attempt with a victory for Earth Magic in the conditions hurdle.