1.40 JOHN LYNCH MEMORIAL MAIDEN HURDLE 2M

Makitorix can make a winning debut for Willie Mullins. This French import won once and was placed on a further six occasions from nine starts on the level. His sole victory came on heavy ground at Cholet so there is a good chance that he will cope with the prevailing conditions and he is a thoroughly intriguing recruit to jumping. He is chosen ahead of the 110-rated Big Ben who has filled the runner-up spot on his three outings over hurdles. In two recent outings, Big Ben has yet to match the form that saw him chase home stablemate Landofhopeandglory in a Fairyhouse maiden last November.