Galway's Grade 3 Hartmans Jewellers Ballybrit Novice Chase has attracted a quality field of seven runners.

The Jessica Harringtontrained Studmaster won the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown in early January, but only got as far as the third fence on his chasing debut at Fairyhouse. He is sure to have been well-schooled in the interim, but Conna Castle, from the Jimmy Mangan stable, has a valuable edge with his experience gained in the point-to-point field.

The seven-year-old acts well on soft ground, and Ruby Walsh's presence in the saddle is an added bonus. Urban Rebel, was not disgraced when third to Zum See in a handicap chase at Cork two weeks ago, while Vic Venturi must also be considered.

The Philip Fenton-trained eight-year-old rounded off a successful campaign over hurdles last term by finishing a creditable third to Nicanor in a Grade 1 event at the Punchestown Festival in April.

He is sure to give a good account of himself, but Conna Castle holds more appeal.

Elsewhere on the card, further improvement can be expected of Freddie Foster, when he goes to post under Niall Madden for the Galway City Tribune Handicap Hurdle. Conor O'Dwyer's mount Rathkenny ranks as the danger.