Plenty of life in veteran Brian still

Most of the chat prior to the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle at Navan concerned market-leaders Nicole's Milan and Rightdownthemiddle However, out on the track 12/1 chance (from 16s) Mad Brian completely stole the show with an easy win under Danny Hand.

The successful Brian Boru gelding, an eleven-year-old at this stage, was without a win since May 2013 but here it was 'bar a fall' over the final couple of hurdles. Gillian Callaghan's charge strode away for a fifteen length and a half a length win over the aforementioned pair, Rightdownthemiddle and Nicole's Milan.

"We were delighted with him in Punchestown the last day when he ran on really well in the National trial," said Callaghan.

"He's had a few niggly problems, and a wind op as well, but it all seemed to come right today.

"The plan is to go for the Midlands National at Uttoxeter again. Fingers crossed he comes out of this well and that will be his next outing all being well."

Hand was riding a winner here on his first attempt for Mrs Callaghan. It was his third winner and he gave credit to his agent Ken Whelan for his efforts.

A.W. Short, rider of Man With Van trained by Patrick Griffin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount had a good blow and got tired on the ground, and may need better ground in future.

A. Ring, rider of Aimin For Anna trained by Thomas P.O'Connor, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled and was pulled up.

(GC & EM)