Sunday horse racing tips: Johnny Ward's trio for Navan

We are edging ever closer to the Cheltenham Festival and entering that short phase of the season where the trials and prep runs are over.

Navan's card may still offer a couple of clues ahead of the Cotswolds, though it is notable that Willie Mullins has a relatively small number of runners (eight) compared to Gordon Elliott's 21.

Elliott likes to target Navan and looks set for a good day. Be lucky.

1.40 Navan: Ho My Lord

If the market was correct at Leopardstown then he should win this far lesser race. The form of his sole previous start, a win in Durtal in France, has been quite nicely advertised by the well-held third, Odela.

3.10 Navan: Arctic Ambition

I am a little worried about how badly he ran at Leopardstown over fences last time, but previously over hurdles he was 4-11F at Tramore when unfortunate to unseat and he is clearly thrown in here.

Gordon Elliott likes to target this track with hurdlers who are trying to exploit favourable ratings relative to their chase marks, as it is such a galloping track. This is the jockey's first ride over jumps.

4.10 Navan: Sweet Will

Another local trainer, Gavin Cromwell, continues in blistering form. I was taken with Sweet Will's jumping at Fairyhouse last time, which was an improvement on his chase debut at Kilbeggan last spring even though he was beaten. He is really game.