Tricky handicaps the key to Navan calculations

Sorting out a total of 29 runners in a pair of handicap hurdles represents the main challenge for Pick6 punters at Navan. The Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle (3.40) involves a tough test of stamina over 2m6f on very soft ground, and few of the 15 runners bring a consistent or progressive profile to the race.

In terms of progress, Nicole's Milan is the exception since he won two races at Fairyhouse last month. Trained in County Cork by Sean Aherne, the six-year-old has taken a sharp rise but still gets in here on a low weight.

Gordon Elliott runs three in the race. Rightdownthemiddle is perhaps the most interesting, since he is having only his second run for the stable and is well treated relative to his form over fences. Stablemate Dounikos suffered a reverse last time, but had previously given the impression of being on the upgrade. For further comfort the locally-trained veteran Mad Brian is worth including.