Permis switches to hurdles in Navan feature Navan plays host to a valuable programme of National Hunt action this afternoon with the eCOMM Merchant Solutions Handicap Hurdle the highlight on a seven-race card boasting total prize-money well in excess of €200,000. The three-mile feature with €80,000 up for grabs has attracted 16 runners and Tout Est Permis catches the eye at the foot of the handicap on his return to the smaller obstacles. The Gigginstown-owned gelding won three in a row over fences last season including the Ladbrokes Troytown Chase at this venue plus the Grade 2 Horse And Jockey Hotel Chase at Thurles. He’s currently rated 155 over fences but was soundly beaten behind Douvan in the Clonmel Oil Chase last month. Trainer Noel Meade is hopeful of a big run saying, “I know he’s out of the handicap and we were disappointed with his run the last day but it’s worth a lot of money and we said we’d give it a try. “He’s 8lb wrong off 122 but even still he’d look well in. I suppose he has the mark for a reason.” Sire Du Berlais, winner of the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham last March, heads the weights while J P McManus’ colours are also carried by Gran Geste who bids to follow up a victory at Galway. The €50,000 Foxrock Handicap Chase is another competitive affair with the likes of Ex Patriot and Jetz likely to play a prominent role, while the Gordon Elliott-trained pair Ben Dundee and Glenloe are others to consider. There is also Grade 3 action in the shape of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Klairon Davis Novice Chase where Tornado Flyer has strong claims. Elliott is double-handed with Eclair De Beaufeu and I’m A Game Changer, while Due Reward and Grand Partner complete a five-runner field.
