A pair of high-class Flat recruits take their first steps into the jumping game at Gowran Park this afternoon and it would be no surprise to see both De Laurentiis and Liss Ard make successful starts to their new careers.

De Laurentiis, an ex-Ballydoyle inmate who now sports the JP McManus colours, has been set a stiff task in the opening hurdle. He had only two starts for Aidan O'Brien but after running very green on his debut he then went on to beat Dream To Dress at Listowel.

He looks the sort of progressive type to make a go of jumping, especially on the decent ground that is forecast for today.

In contrast Liss Ard is much more exposed but the four-year-old maiden looks a suitable opportunity and if he takes to the game his Flat rating is hard to argue with.

Major Stampi beat all but his better fancied stable companion Celtic Sammy on his Navan debut and odds on backers will be examining him closely in the bumper.