Navan 2.20pm
I’ve chosen Bachasson in the Boyne Hurdle over 2m 5f. The drier ground should really suit him and he’s not slow. He looks to me to have a great chance. I was a little disappointed with stable-mate Coquin Mans on Thyestes Day although he’ll probably improve for the run and he’s probably better running on right-handed tracks as he jumps a little to his right.
On ratings, Charles Byrnes’ Off You Go is the one we have to beat as was a very impressive winner at Leopardstown where he showed some turn of foot in the final two furlongs to win. Last year’s Grand National winner, Tiger Roll, starts his season back here but he’ll probably have the first Saturday in April as his target again this year.
Navan 2.55pm
Oscars Den trained by my Dad Ted, is ridden by Michael Stenson in the handicap hurdle. Michael claims 4lbs off him and he’ll appreciate going left-handed and he ran really well when I rode him at Fairyhouse last time. He won’t be far away.
Navan 3.25pm
This is a competitive race and Gordon Elliott’s Champagne Classic and Chris’s Dream are key players. While Any Second Now is still a maiden over fences, he’s loads of experience and ran really well in the Paddy Power Chase at Christmas and can get involved.
Navan 4.00pm
There are some great old horses in this Hunters Chase and our Billaway is having his first run on the track, is ridden by 7lb claimer Billy Gleeson and should improve for the run.
It should be a great race to watch but Ucello Conti, Salsify, and Patrick Mullins’ mount Thunder and Roses for Ross O Sullivan will have too much experience for Billaway.
I reckon you’ll go well over at PaddyPower.com!