16:50 - Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle

Yet another needle in a haystack race, with most firms paying five places as a result. We've got it down to five, but that still sounds a bit long, so we'll pick the best three and kick ourselves when one of the two we kick out romps home.

Let's kick off with Melrose Boy, running with Kieron Edgar aboard for Harry Fry. From five starts on soft to heavy ground, he's never been out of the places, and won twice, and also won on his only visit to the Cheltenham fences. He looks to have some improvement left in him, and has form figures of 3231313. He's also been successful over slightly longer trips, which given the conditions is another bonus.

Our next best is Deal D'estruval who runs for Willie Mullins - a proven candidate in this heat. He did really well to finish 2nd in the Coral Hurdle at Leopardstown in a big field handicap so won't be put off by those around him and he continues to show improvement as well, so looks a really solid candidate. He looks a much better prospect than some of his more experienced rivals here.

Our other one will be Carter McKay who adds to the Mullins contingent and has to be respected at 16/1. He's not been out of the frame this season with form figures of 133, has previously won over hurdes and also has a couple of NH flat races to his name on soft and heavy ground.

The two we nearly backed for the record were Mr Big Shot and Flawless Escape.

1pt e/w Melrose Boy at 20/1 (Get five places)

1pt e/w Deal D'estruva at 15/2 (Get five places)

1pt e/w Carter McKay at 16/1 (Get five places)

#HorseRacing