Grimme Ireland Maiden Hurdle

PRESS THE BUTTON caught the eye when runner-up on his hurdling debut at Ballinrobe, beaten only by a well-regarded winner, and that promising effort builds a strong case now he steps up in trip. A bumper winner who was already tested in good company, he is clearly open to further improvement, wears cheekpieces for the first time, and looks sure to progress with more experience for a powerful yard. HIGHLAND REALM, who showed encouraging signs when beaten at short odds on his sole bumper start, and the experienced WACKESTONE, third in a Flat contest at The Curragh last time, look the chief dangers, while KASPER HAUSER cannot be dismissed if he brings his best. PRESS THE BUTTON, though, remains the pick to open his hurdling account.