Professor Maria Hinfelaar Handicap Hurdle (Div II)

Remains a maiden after 19 starts; well beaten in C&D novice in December and no better when upped to 3m at Cork; struggled off this mark on last handicap start; hard to fancy.

Maiden's best run was when third in Gowran handicap in October (2m4f, yielding); better than bare result at Fairyhouse (2m4f) in December, headway to lead after three out but could find no more in closing stages; could go well after a break.

Win came at Gowran (2m4f, soft) in October off 86; safely held next two starts but fair run here over an inadequate 2m last time when 4.75l fifth of 13, best work late on; merits consideration back up in trip.

Veteran improved his hurdles strike-rate to 5-60 with Clonmel victory on the 101st outing of his career in January off 93; generally unpredictable; pulled up on his three most recent attempts.

Dual point winner; confirmed his liking for a stamina test when second over 3m at Naas (soft to heavy) last month; below that level when remote third of 15 here (2m7f, heavy; favourite) eight days later; that perhaps came too soon but he may want further than this; cheekpieces.