Race Preview: 5:32 Navan

The card concludes with a real puzzle for punters: a very competitive low-grade (0-60) handicap with a huge field of 21 runners. The race is run over a demanding 1 mile and 6 furlongs on Soft ground, meaning this will be a thorough test of stamina and resolution. Finding a horse with proven form in these conditions is crucial.

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The Leading Contenders

• Gamigin: The market leader, and for good reason. He ran a major eye-catcher at Bellewstown last time out on soft ground, staying on strongly from the rear under what appeared to be considerate handling. He’s a winning hurdler on soft ground, so these conditions are perfect for him. The step up in trip looks ideal and he is a major player, though his price is short for such a competitive race.
• Bynx: Arguably the most solid option for an each-way bet. This mare is a model of consistency at this level, finishing third on her last three outings. One of those placed efforts came over this course and distance on yielding ground, proving she handles the track. She stays well, handles cut in the ground, and has her rider’s 3lb claim to assist. She is almost certain to be in the shake-up.
• Maxwell Smart: Boasts some of the strongest recent form, having won at Down Royal in September before good runs on soft ground at Bellewstown, where he chased home a clear winner and then stayed on for fifth. He is clearly in excellent heart and handles the conditions.
• Numidia: Another who comes here after a good run on soft ground at Bellewstown, where he finished a staying-on third. He is now on an attractive handicap mark, and the booking of a 7lb claimer is a massive advantage in a race like this.

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Others to Consider

• Charlie Brow’n: He is a 15-race maiden, but his best effort this season was a good third on soft ground at Killarney. The return to these conditions is a big positive, and if he can be persuaded to settle, he could outrun his odds.
• Daymer Bay: Another long-standing maiden, but he has been running with great credit recently on soft ground, including a career-best second at Roscommon last time. He’s in form and clearly handles the ground.

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Verdict

This is a wide-open and tricky handicap to close the card. While the favourite Gamigin is respected after his eye-catching last run, the value may lie with an each-way play.

At the prices, the consistency of BYNX is impossible to ignore. She’s in great form, has run well here before, and stays all day. She looks a fantastic each-way proposition. Gamigin is the most likely winner if building on his last effort, while Maxwell Smart and Numidia have strong claims to hit the places.

1. Bynx (e/w)
2. Gamigin
3. Maxwell Smart