Dundalk preview The Crowne Plaza Race & Stay Handicap tops the bill on an eight-race programme and last year's winner of the centrepiece, Shalaman, returns in search of further Dundalk honours. A three-times winner overall at the Dowdallshill venue, Shalaman has his first start now for the David Marnane yard. Previous trainers Matthew Smith and Denis Hogan enjoyed good days with the Bart Smith-owned Shalaman, and it will be fascinating to see if Marnane can achieve more with the seven-year-old. Not surprisingly given the prize-money on offer, Shalaman certainly will not have it easy off top weight in this extended mile-and-a-quarter heat. The second top-rated horse in the six-runner affair is Political Policy. There have not been many more popular performers since the Polytrack was initiated here in 2007, as Gavin Cromwell's charge has landed eight wins and has been placed seven times at the course. Political Policy has basically been a marvellous servant for local owner Frank Lynch, an All-Ireland winning footballer with Louth back in 1957. Sean Corby takes the reins again on Political Policy and the son of Bushranger seems sure to be on the premises. Despite the small field, this does not look easy for punters, and, in truth, there are not any that could safely be ruled out. Brosnan does have to compete from 1lb out of the handicap, though. The Big Bad Bob Maiden has been divided. In the opening split, the very-well-related Love In The Sun looks a big player for Moyglare Stud Farm and Dermot Weld after a reasonable debut effort over the course and distance in early October. Obviously a market watch will be required with the four newcomers. In division two, all 12 participants have already tasted racecourse action. The Mouse Doctor and Zilbiyr would seem to be two of the more noteworthy runners.
