Grand National 2004 Preview

First Gold (FR)

**NON-RUNNER **

A top class well thought of bay gelding this that has been entered in the top races for the last few seasons. He is a past winner of the King George VI Chase which he won on his debut in this country in 2000 and that day he had good horses like the Gold Cup winner See More Business well beat as well as Florida Pearl and Beau in 2nd and 4th. In the same season (2000/2001) at this meeting he won the Martell Cup and was 10 lengths ahead of his nearest rival Lord Noelie. The following season saw him run some good races without winning however he did disappoint in his race at Leopardstown on heavy ground but after the race was found to have an infection of his respiratory tract. His form improved last season and his win at this meeting again in the Martell Cup showing his liking for this course although he has not been tried at these fences. He has a lot of weight to carry in this race and that will be the most likely thing to stop him winning but he does have the class to win this race. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 5f Past form: A winner of 11 from 32 starts including 1 hurdle and 10 chases. Recent form: His opener was a 5th in a hurdle race in France. His next run was in December in the King George VI Chase where he was a good 3rd. His only other start was in the Cheltenham Gold cup where he ran up with the pace for a long time before fading and finishing a creditable 5th Points for:Class Points Against : Weight

Le Coudray(IRE)

A French import to Ireland this 10 yr old bay gelding. He has only been seen twice in this country and both times he ran at the Cheltenham Festival. The first was a good 2nd in the Stayers' Hurdle and this season a 4th in the Cathcart Challenge Cup Chase. He is high enough in the weights for this race and you really have to look to his fine Irish form to see the worth of this. He is a winner of a The Grade one Pierse Group Drinmore Novice Chase in 2002 and in the same season won another grade one Denny Gold Medal Novice Chase. Last season without winning he still put in great performances getting fourth to the very impressive Beef or Salmon in the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase, another grade one. He has also put up good performances this season having only Best Mate ahead of him in the Ericsson Chase. The fact that he has never won a race further than 2m 4f would also be a worry for me as I don't really subscribe to the theory of a 2m4f horse getting the marathon trip. A class horse but would have to defy 28 years of stats for him to win with this weight. His winning has been done on soft ground. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from soft to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 10 from 21 starts including 7 hurdle and 3 chases. Recent form: Started season with a good 4th to Beef or Salmon in the John Durkan Memorial and followed that up with a second to Best Mate in the Erricson Chase. His last run was a second to Florida Pearl in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Leopardstown in February. Points for:Class Points Against : Weight, Distance.

Monty's Pass (FR)

A past winner of this race this bay gelding despite winning in his first run after the race like so many other past winners has found the winning touch out of his reach since. Monty's Pass is a good long distance type of horse however he has to carry 18lbs more in the race (at the time of writing) and that seems to be too big a rise in the weights to me. This race may have the right conditions for this horse but the stats are not good as there has been no dual winner for 30 Years and no horse has won with this weight for 28 Years. Last year this was the talking horse that everyone had on the tip of their tongue but we have seen nor heard any of that this year. Monty's Pass is a good horse however and despite the stats he has won some well contested races as well as making the frame regularly. He seems to handle any ground and that is a bonus, but a win looks a little too much for him this year although he would seem to have place claims. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from firm to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 4f Past form: A winner of 9 from 53 starts including 0 hurdle and 9 chases. Recent form: Started season with a 5th from 6 in a hurdle race. Then followed up with a very distant 7th in a 3m chase at Listowel Next time up was back hurdling and was last of 20 at 2m4f. Next was a 2m hurdle where he seemed to be running much happier. The results can probably be ignored this year as he has clearly been aimed at this renewal. Points for:Course, Distance. Points Against : Weight, Stats.

What's Up Boys (FR)

Following a fall in the Peterhouse Group Charlie Hall Chase in 2002 this popular Grey gelding was having his first run for over 470 days when running creditably in the Country Gentlemen's Association Chase at Wincanton last February. If he has come out of the race well he could now be on song for this race where he was a brave second to Bindaree in 2002. This horse has run some very good races and his best win was in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury in 2001 when despite having traffic problems at the end of the race battled on and finished like a train. He is also a winner on this course when in 2001 he won the Mildmay Novices' Chase and that day had Shotgun Willy and Hati Roy a distance and a distance behind (although this was not over the national fences). He is full of class and has good place claims as he carried this same weight when he ran his second place two years ago. Coming back to the race is not good as far as the stats are concerned as recent winners have been running in the race for the first time. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 2f Past form: A winner of 9 from 25 starts including 4 hurdle and 4 chases and a NHF. Recent form: only run a 4th of 6 in his comeback at Wincanton over 3m1f Points for:Course, Distance. Points Against : Weight, Stats.

ALEXANDER BANQUET (IRE)

Another good horse from Ireland. This bay gelding was a very good hurdler and looked as if he was going to make up to a fine chaser in his first season chasing, however since moving from novice class he has only won once despite running some good races in defeat, his win came in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase at Leopardstown He has been contesting top class races and has run in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham twice and had runs in the Ericsson as well as a run in this race in 2002 where he unseated last years winning jockey Barry Geraghty at the first fence. Looks to have it all to do and has a big weight but should run well enough. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from soft to heavy and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 10 from 27 starts including 4 hurdle and 4 chases and 2 NHF. Recent form: Started season in the Grade 1 Ericsson where he finished last of 6 finishers, next he finished 6th and 7th in two handicap chases. He then followed up with a 4th in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup and then second in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse where he looked as if coming into form only to finish last in the Gold cup where he was never dangerous. Points for:Comes from good well respected yard Points Against : Weight, Course, Only 2 wins in last 5 Years.

Kingsmark (FR)

This Grey gelding looks every inch a National type. He has won 3 times at Haydock and the fences there have a slight drop like the national fences, he has also won at Aintree in 2001 where he won the Chivas Regal Handicap Chase. He ran in this race two years ago and came in a creditable 4th to Bindaree, he carried 11st 9lbs that day so will have to carry less weight as long as the weights don't rise. He has made jumping errors in the past but as he has got around here once before I would not let that put you off, He is something of a Haydock specialist and has run there on 6 of his last 7 runs and in the past has always put up his best shows but his recent form has been poor and in his two runs this season has looked a shadow of his former self. If at his best he would have chances but his poor recent form is a worry. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 2f Past form: A winner of 12 from 29 starts including 4 hurdle and 8 chases. Recent form: Started the season a distant 3rd of three in the Edward Hammer Memorial Chase a race he had won three times before. His only other run was a distant last of 6 finishers in the Tommy Whittle Chase also at Haydock. Points for:Course, Distance. Points Against : Weight, poor recent form.

Arctic Jack (FR)

This 8 yr old bay gelding could have the best credentials so far. I still think this is too high in the weights and he has gone up in the handicap this year however his bold front running style could mean that if he gets into a good position early on he could have things his own way as he travels really well in a race and jumps for fun. He has had some time off with tendon injuries in the past but seems well over that now. He looks the type for long distances having won over 3m 4f. If he is still a little in front of the handicapper he could be a big price to finish in the frame and at 8 could have even more improvement in him. Certainly one of the better outsiders. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m 4f Past form: A winner of 5 from 16 starts including 1 hurdle and 4 chases. Recent form: Started the season with a fine win in the Tim Molony Handicap Chase ay Haydock. Next time a third at Wetherby in a listed chase. Next up was a win in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock and in his final start was third to Jurancon II giving 1st 6lbs to the winner who he meets today. Points for:Travels and jumps well, distance. Points Against : Weight

Risk Accessor (IRE)

Another 2m4f horse that is being tried at this marathon. This bay gelding does not look to have the necessary skills for this race. He can run in and out in his races but when he gets it right over the right trip he looks very good. He has to be held up and has in the past looked not too keen to go and win at the end of his races. He has not been very encouraging when tried over longer trips. Looks like one leave out unless there is a significant move in the market as he is owned by the betting guru J.P.McManus Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 6f Past form: A winner of 7 from 30 starts including 4 hurdle and 3 chases. Recent form: Started season winning a two horse race in Ireland. Next time out he fell at Cheltenham in the Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase Showcase Handicap. He bounced back a month later at the same course in the Tripleprint Gold Cup Showcase Handicap Chase with a short head second to Iris Royal and in his only other start was a well beaten 9th in the Vodafone Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury however he did make a bad mistake in this race early on and did not get back on terms in the race. Points for: Strong move in market should be noted. Points Against : Weight, Distance.

David's Lad (IRE)

As the winner of the 2001 Irish National this bay gelding looks to have the credentials to win a race like this. Looking at his past form however could be deceiving. His form prior to that win and immediately following it was good but he has not won since October 2001 and that is the deceiving bit as in many of the races it looks as if he was running in preparation for other big days. Prior to his good 3rd in the Cathcart Challenge Cup Chase in 2003 he ran in hurdle and then a 2m chase. Then in the 2002/2003 season ran in handicap chase and then a 2m chase in prep for his run in the Irish National where he finished 4th. This season Jan 04 in a 2m6f chase then a 2m1f chase before putting up a good performance in the Grade 2 2m 4f chase at Thurles to finish second. So his bare form should not be just skipped over. He has run in the National before in 2002 where he was strongly fancied and was going as well as anything else in the race and well within himself when he fell at the 27th. He was carrying the same weight as today and could run just as well. Any market move should be looked on as significant and he looks like a horse with place claims and could even win with a good run. He has been aimed at this race all season and as I have said his previous form has to be taken with that in mind. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 5f Past form: A winner of 10 from 44 starts including 4 hurdle and 6 chases. Recent form: Started season with a 5th in a 2m6f event and then was 6th in a 2m1f chase, Next up he was 2nd in a 2m 4f and his last run was a poor 6th in a 2m 2f chase. Points for: Distance. Points Against : Weight.

Bindaree

A great long distance chaser this bay gelding is one of the best. I will start by saying that the last horse to regain this title after losing it between wins was Red Rum back in 1977. I will also say that at 11st 1lb you have to go back to Corbiere's win in 1983 to find another winner carrying this weight, but this is one horse that I feel could upset the stats. A very fine past winner Bindaree looked to be going the way of so many National winners in that they loose their form and fail to get it back after the race, but the horse has had some problems with his back but this season he proved that when he is fit and well he still has the guts and determination and love of the game to win big races and his win in this seasons Welsh National was one of the most moving I can remember. In his past he has won the Victor Chandler chase carrying 12st and so he is capable of weight carrying. His main problem is that he can get left behind early on in a race and so soft ground helps him in that it slows the pace of the race down so unless he gets very far behind in the early stages I can see him running well and into a place and even winning the race for a historic second time. This year Carl Llewellyn has chosen to ride him again even though Nigel Twiston Davies has two others in the race, this should also be seen as a positive. Carl rode him last year in a year that Bindaree did not show his best Carl gave him a good ride and gave him every chance in the race and he did well to finish 6th after making a bad mistake at Becher's on the first circuit. One not to leave out of your shortlist. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 4f Past form: A winner of 9 from 35 starts including 4 hurdle and 5 chases. Recent form: Started the season with an uncharacteristic fall at this course and over these fences in the Becher Chase, but then followed that up with a fine second in the Rehearsal Chase at Chepstow. His next run was the win in the Welsh National over 3m 6f. His most recent start was in the Tote Classic Chase at Warwick where he finished 6th after being left behind early on. Points for:Distance, Course. Points Against : Weight.

Alcapone

This 10yr old Bay gelding has never won over a distance at 2m 2f. This will be a major factor in taking his form into consideration. He won last time out in a 2m 2f race but that was his first win since November 2002. His recent form seems to have him with a lot to do in this race. A significant move in the market should be noted. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from yielding to soft and up to a distance of 2m 2f Past form: A winner of 6 from 47 starts including 4 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: Started the season with a second at Gowran Park in the National Lottery Agent Champion Chase over 2m4f. then followed up by three consecutive 5th places and then being pulled up in the Pierse Leopardstown Handicap Chase over three miles. Latest run was a win in the Cashel Fine Arts Chase over 2m 2f. Points for:only a significant move in the market. Points Against : Weight, distance.

Puntal (FR)

A young bay gelding who has a good win/place record Puntal could be anything. This is his first season chasing but he is from Martin Pipe's stable so that should be no worry for him. He has won the Peter Bromley Novices' Chase at Cheltenham and also the Rosling King Novices' Chase at Ascot but these were at a distance of 2m4f and 2m. He has not been asked to run in a chase over 2m 5f so this is a worry as he tried 3m 1f as a hurdler and he was 7th, that was his debut in this country after being brought over from France. Should have some improvement but is not proven at this distance and the stable Jockey has chosen to ride another horse. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to soft and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 10 from 31 starts including 6 hurdle and 4 chases. Recent form: His form figure this season are 1211415 ur with him unseating in the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. All this seasons runs were under 2m4f Points for:Good Stable Points Against : Weight, distance,

Southern Star (FR)

This Chestnut gelding could be a bit of a Dark Horse, He is available at a big price currently. It is well known that the trainer does not like running horses in the Grand National so he may by-pass this for the Scottish version but she ran this horse last year and he got around in his own time to finish last. This in itself would not give you great hope but the horse is running into form and on his last outing this year won a 3m5f race in a good time (3secs outside the course record) at Warwick and had the likes of Jurancon II (2ND), Bindaree (6th),Gunner Welburn (PU), Carbury Cross (PU), Take Control (F) and Akarus (pu) all beaten. However that said it was his first win since Oct 2001. There is a lot to be taken on trust but could be a surprise if he takes his chance. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to good/soft and up to a distance of 3m 5f Past form: A winner of 6 from 23 starts including 2 hurdle and 3 chases and 1 NHF. Recent form: Started the season in the Open Trophy Handicap Chase at Cheltenham and finished 4th. Next run was in the Miles Gosling Handicap Chase over 4miles at Cheltenham and finished 3rd. Only other run a win at Warwick in the Tote Classic Chase. Points for:Course, Distance , Recent Form Points Against : Not a prolific winner

Wahiba Sands (FR)

**NON-RUNNER**

A Regular runner this bay gelding if not a regular winner. His last win was in the Cantor Sport Handicap Chase over two miles in December 2002 but he has run 22 times since then. Having not won over 2m2f and that fact he has not won for 22 starts he has too much to find to take a hand in this and looks out of his depth here. Note : It is interesting that this horse once beat Best Mate in a handicap chase at Ascot in November 2001 Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to soft and up to a distance of 2m 2f Past form: A winner of 10 from 53 starts including 3 chases. Recent form: Form Figures of F2443273,12,9 Points for:Good Stable Points Against : Distance , Course, Recent Form

Hedgehunter (IRE)

This 8yr old bay gelding really caught the eye in his run in the Welsh National in December. Held up in the back on that day was an unusual tactic which did not make full use of the horse as he can front run and likes to be up with the pace, this would have had him much closer at the finish. He has won on his one outing since then when making the running. Horses who can get to the front of the field after the first couple of fences generally are able to keep out of trouble and this could see him in good stead for the race. Hedgehunter can however make jumping mistakes and this could be a problem at Aintree as the national fences are large however they do let horses go through the top of them and if you can find a leg at the other side you can get away with it. Although this horse does make mistakes he has never fallen. While you could not say the horse is a prolific winner he does make the frame many times and has only been out of the first three twice in his 19 runs to date. He looks to me to be the national type of horse. He has won over 3m 4f and did stay the trip over 3m 5f at Chepstow in very soft ground. He is at the right end of the weights and worthy of his place at the front of the betting market. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from soft to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 4f Past form: A winner of 3 from 11 starts including 1 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: Started the season in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase Showcase Handicap at Newbury where he finished 4th. He then took on the Welsh National at Chepstow where he finished 4th. Last time out was at Gowran park where he won the Goulding Thyestes Handicap Chase over three miles and had The Bunny Boiler and Alexandra Banquet behind. Points for:Travels well in race, Distance, weight Points Against : Can make jumping errors.

Shardam

"Oh well we lost that one but he will win the Grand National"! Was the quote from the trainer after this horses second at the Cheltenham festival last month. He clearly thinks highly of the horse and he should know as he has saddled the winner of the National on two previous occasions with Earth Summit and Bindaree, but I fear that this year may not be this horses year at 7 you have to go back to Bogskar's win in 1940 to the last horse to win at this age. That said he is clearly a horse with talent and amongst his wins was the Open Trophy Handicap Chase at Cheltenham earlier this season. He is another who is a front-runner and goes well when up with the pace. Against him in this race is the fact that the stables number one jockey Carl Llewellyn has chosen to ride Bindaree in this race when he could have chosen this horse to ride, as he has ridden him in all of his wins so far. Carl was not on Bindaree when he won the National so perhaps it would not have been strange if he had plumped for another of the stables runners and this should be seen as significant. It would not be a surprise to see him run very well but I think he is a year too young yet. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m 3f Past form: A winner of 5 from 22 starts including 1 hurdle and 4 chases. Recent form: Opened his racing account this year when winning the Open Trophy Handicap Chase at Cheltenham. In his next race at Newbury he was pulled up. His next race was in the Aon Chase again at Newbury where he was last. He then ran a good 4th in the Racing Post Chase at Kempton before coming second in the William Hill National Hunt Handicap Chase at the festival at Cheltenham. Points for:Jumps well Points Against : Age, experience

Takagi (IRE)

This Irish trained bay gelding has only been seen once in the country and that was a disappointing run in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase at Newbury in 2002 where he was pulled up however he has run good races in Ireland amongst them was his win in the valuable Pierse Contracting Troytown Handicap Chase at Navan in 2002. His recent win in the Bobbyjo Chase last time out was a good run but it is difficult to access that form. Last year his trainer by-passed this event to go for a crack at the Irish equivalent. He ran okay that day but finished down the field. He is young enough to have improvement to come but would have to improve on what he has done so far or take a distinct liking to the course to take part in the finish here. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from Yielding to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 7 from 32 starts including 1 hurdle and 5 chases and 1 NHF. Recent form: Started season 3rd in the Pierse Group Troytown Handicap Chase at Navan. In his next race he was in a 3m hurdle and finished 5th. Next time out he was 6th of 10 behind Hedgehunter in the Goulding Thyestes Handicap Chase at Gowran Park. In January he was a distant 8th in the Event Power Handicap Hurdle over 3miles. In his last outing he came to winning form in the Bobbyjo Chase over 3m 1f Points for:Could Have improvement to come. Points Against : Age, experience.

Joss Naylor

This 9yr old bay gelding is well thought of in his stable and a look at his form figures will show you why he is consistent and reliable in fact his only poor run was in this years festival in the William Hill National Hunt Handicap Chase where he finished well down the field. In 2002 he ran a fine race to come second in the Coral Eurobet Cup Showcase Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival and also ran well at the same course in January this year in the Ian Williams' Owners Novices' Chase where he won over 2m 5f. this shows he has speed and he also has stamina as his win a the 3m chase at Utttoxeter shows. He has been strongly fancied for this race and is at the front end of the betting market and if there is more significant support then this should be noted with any horse from this stable. He has a good chance of making the frame and is not one to leave out of your final calculations. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/soft to soft and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 7 from 14 starts including 2 hurdle and 3 chases and 2 NHF. Recent form: only one run this season when 2nd in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase Showcase Handicap at Newbury behind Strong Flow. Points for:Lightly raced could have improvement to come Points Against : None.

Amberleigh House

A fine old chaser this brown gelding and an Aintree regular. He has run at this course no fewer than 6 times and has shown a liking for the course . He has run three times in the Tote Becher Chase Showcase Handicap a race he won in 2001, and was second in 2002 and also second in 2003. He was unlucky in the 2001 Grand National where he was brought down in the race Won by Red Marauder where only 4 horses finished. His poor luck continued the following year where he was balloted out of the race, however his luck changed last year and he ran a fabulous race right up to his best form when coming in 3rd behind Monty's Pass and Supreme Glory. At the ripe old age of 12 he is not going to improve but his liking for the course means that running up to his best may be enough to secure another place. His trainer knows what the Grand National is all about as he trained re Rum to win three times with his last win coming as a 12 yr old. A horse not without a winning chance. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 3f. Past form: A winner of 8 from 60 starts including 2 hurdle and 5 chases and 1 NHF. Recent form: Started the season with a acceptable preparation for the Becher chase when 5th of 6 in the Guinness Handicap Chase at Ascot. Next run was an acceptable second behind Clan Royal in the Tote Becher Chase Showcase Handicap at this course and over these fences. His next run was disappointing at Haydock in a 2m4f race. Last time out in the Tote Scoop 6 Grimthorpe Chase he was not going very well and finished 6th but Doncaster is a very different course to Aintree. Points for:Course, Fences, Distance Points Against : Age, recent Form has been below par.

The Bunny Boiler (IRE)

This 10Year old bay gelding is a good long distance chaser who has some fine wins already in the locker. In March 2002 he was a very impressive winner of the midlands national when he came home 20 lengths ahead of a good field of long distance chasers over the extended trip of 4m 2f. His very next race was in the Powers Gold Label Irish Grand National Chase where again he was an impressive winner. He obviously stays and runs well. In his next season he put up two impressive wins in hurdle races as preparation for a bid in the Welsh National. In the race however he was not going well and was pulled up and has lost his form since then. He ran in this race last year but unfortunately unseated his rider at the first fence. His four runs this year have also been disappointing. If up to his best he would have a fine chance in this race but there is a lot to take on trust. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 2f Past form: A winner of 7 from 30 starts including 3 hurdle and 3 chases and 1 NHF. Recent form: Started this season with an 8th in a 2m4f prep hurdle race then followed up being pulled up in a 3m chase at Gowran Park. On His latest run was a distant 13 of 15 in the Mick Holly Memorial Handicap Chase over 2m 5f at Leopardstown. Points for:Distance, weight. Points Against : poor recent form

Tyneandthneagain

A good chaser this bay gelding who appreciates long distances and soft going as his win over 4m 1f in the Tote Eider Chase Showcase Handicap earlier this year shows. He is a horse who every now and then runs a poor race and he can also make jumping mistakes. He is a novice at chases and at 9 years old does not have too many chase runs under his belt but he is from a Grand National winning stable as Red Marauder was a winner for them in 2001. he is an improving horse and has carried much more weight than this to victory and therefore this 10st 5lbs will seem very light to him. His last run was a poor run at Cheltenham where the ground was not soft enough for him and because of the dry spring he may not run if the ground is not soft, however with the right ground and if he is on song he will stand a lively chance in this race. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 1f Past form: A winner of 6 from 26 starts including 2 hurdle and 4 chases. Recent form: Started the season with a 2nd in a novice chase at Southwell over 2m 5f+. Next time out ran a good second carrying top weight in a handicap chase over 2m7f+. Next time out was disappointing and he was pulled up. The next race 2nd over 3 miles in a novice chase. And followed that up with a win in the Skybet Chase over three miles in soft ground. Next time out he was only 7th making jumping errors in a chase at Haydock. His next race came in the Tote Eider Chase where he was an impressive winner. His final start in what has already been a busy season he was pulled up at the Cheltenham Festival. Points for:Distance Points Against : Can run the odd poor race

Whereareyounow

** NON-RUNNER**

This chestnut gelding is another runner from the Nigel Twiston Davies yard. He is a young horse who has run well but does not quite look up to this class yet. He won a good race in the Steel Plate And Sections Novices' Chase earlier this season but he did only have 4 rivals that day. He takes his chance here I would guess on his fine run over these fences back in November in the Grand Sefton Chase over 2m 5f where although looking a little novicey at the fences ran really well to finish third. This race may just be a little too early in his career but he could be a anything just now and looks the type to improve. He likes good ground and has won on good/firm ground and if the ground turns out to be lively he may be one of the few that will handle it well and this would improve his chances considerably. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to good and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 3 chases from 14 starts Recent form: has run 7 times this season already and with for figures of 1134178 you can see he is consistent Points for:Consistent, may have improvement to come Points Against : Age, Can make jumping errors.

Red Striker

I can't believe this horse is only 10 as he seems to have been around a lot longer than that. This chestnut gelding must have soft ground to show his best and he will not run if he does not get ground to his liking. He has not run this season yet and his last run was in this race last year where he unseated his rider 4 from home. He has won some good races in the past and is a past winner of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase at Newbury in 2002. In 2001 he won the Heidsieck Diamant Bleu Novices' Handicap Chase at this meeting over 2m 4f and was very impressive in the soft ground. He could be the right type for this race however it is a lot to ask first time out for any horse to take on this marathon, however Mely Moss ran a good second in this race in 2000 on his first run of the year. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 10 from 34 starts including 5 hurdle and 5 chases. Recent form: has not run this season Points for:Well respected stable Points Against : has not had any prep races, must have soft ground

Gunner Welburn (FR)

A really fine chestnut gelding this horse has run some fine races in the past and looks to be coming back into form at the right time. In 2002 he was runner up in the Martell Fox Hunters' Chase over this course and fences. He travels well in the race even if he can be prone to making errors, which he did at the big Chair fence in this race last year where he finished a gallant 4th. He likes to be up with the pace and at the end of races does not find a lot and this can sometimes look like he has problems with the trip. Many people though this after his 3rd in last seasons Welsh National over 3m 5f but at the 4-mile marker in this race last year he was still going well. It would be really great to see "Wellie" as he is known at home to run creditably and who knows he may even win although 12 year olds do not have a great winning record with only 2 winners in the last 22 runnings of the race. Would not be such a surprising winner and the TV celebrations would be massive as the BBC racing correspondent Clare Balding's brother trains this horse. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m 2f Past form: A winner of 11 from 21 starts including 4 chases and 7 hunter chases. Recent form: Started the season disappointingly being pulled up in the ladbrokes.com Handicap Chase over 2m4f. However next time up was a fine win in the skybet.com Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase over 3m 1f in good/soft ground. His next race was the Tote Classic Chase where again he was pulled up, he made a few mistakes in this race. His final run was over 3m+ in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup Chase where he won the race but his was a class E handicap. Points for:travels well in a race, Course, Fences. Points Against : Can make jumping errors, two pulled up's this season.

Kelami (FR)

At six this bay gelding would have to break over 100 years of stats as the last 6yr old to win was Ambush II in 1900. At six however he has had plenty of racing with 20 starts. The first time we saw him in this country was in the valuable Pertemps People Development Group Handicap Chase at Kempton at Christmas where he was a winner. He was then 4th in the Festival in the William Hill National Hunt Handicap Chase. Of course he lacks experience but French trained horses do take to jumping fences earlier than they do in this country. He would be a remarkable winner but nobody can ignore any runner from his powerful Doumen stable. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 2 chases from 20 starts Recent form: Started the season with a poor run in Auteuil, but followed that up with a fine win at Kempton and a good run at The Cheltenham Festival(as Above) Points for:May Have improvement Points Against : Age, experience.

Jurancon II

A fine bay gelding this 7 year old is now coming into form at the right time. He is from the stable of Martin Pipe who often has young runners in this race. As I have stated before 7 yr olds have a poor record in the race and a 7yr old has not won since 1940. That aside this horse is a true long distance chaser. He has won over 4m+ and looks better the further he goes. He did hit a bit of a flat spot early in the season but now is running really well. The main pointer to this horse will be the Jockey, if A.P.McCoy chooses to ride this horse then that will show his well being and will be an indication of the high regard he is held in. If A.P. decides to ride another of the stables horses that will detract me from his chance. He is a good horse and perhaps may be a better horse next year. He is the right type to win this and has the credentials so a win would not be a surprise but I feel he may just be a little too immature yet. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 1/2f/ Past form: A winner of 6 from 17 starts including 3 hurdle and 3 chases. Recent form: A disappointing start when 4th of 5 finishers in the Sussex national however he did have a big weight that day. Next time out was in the Welsh national where he looked a little one paced and finished 5th and last in the gruelling race. His next race was another marathon over 3m 4f at Warwick where he started to come into form when he was second in the Tote Classic Chase. Last time out was a good return to winning in the Red Square Vodka Gold Cup Chase at Haydock over 3m 4f+ Points for:could have lots of improvement to come, Distance, weight Points Against : age

Royal Atalza

A recent import from France this Grey Gelding has had a really strange preparation for this race. So far this season he has run in a hurdle race a chase and some flat races. He looks like a nice sort of horse but he has never won over a distance greater than 2m 5.5f and has shown his best speed over flat distances. He is well regarded by his connections and as the betting price is only 50/1 or 66/1 I would guess they have had quite a bit on the horse but it would be a surprise if he has got what it takes to get to within a place in this race this year. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from slow to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 5f Past form: A winner of 5 from 18 starts including 2 hurdle and 2 chases and a flat race. Recent form: Started the season in France where he won the Prix Salon du Cheval de Paris 2003 over 2m 5 ½ f . Next time he was pulled up when not jumping fluently at Ascot. His next run was a 1m-4f flat race win on the all weather. On his most recent outing he was 8th of 10 in another AW flat race. Points for:Weight Points Against : Course, Distance, Age.

Hermes lii (FR)

**NON_RUNNER**

This bay gelding is anther 2m-4f horse having a crack at the marathon. He is owned by The Grand National Racing Club and therefore that is why he takes his chance here. He has not shown that he can handle long distances but never the less has run good races at shorter distances. For a 9yr old he has few miles on the clock. Would be a surprise winner. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/soft to soft and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 4 from 11 starts including 2 hurdle and 2 chases Recent form: only run this season was in February in the "Ubique" Hunters' Chase where he was second. Points for:Weight Points Against : Course, Distance, Age.

Just in Debt

The ground will be the key to this brown/bay gelding. If the ground is on the firm side then he will run much better and there are not too many horses in the race that will like the ground as much as he will. A recent import from Ireland he has run a bit in and out but was right back to form last time out. Possibly he has Place Claims. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from firm to soft and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 3 from 23 starts including 2 hurdle and 1 chases Recent form: Started season in Ireland with a prep race in a hurdle and then went on to contest the Guinness Kerry National Handicap Chase on really good ground and came home a good 3rd. Next time out for his new trainer was a poor race where he came 5th of 7 finishers. Next time out at Haydock he was pulled up in a race over 3m 4f+. However on his last run he was right back to form winning the Hamilton Campbell Handicap Chase which tuned into a 4 runner affair because of the firm ground. Points for:Weight, Points Against : Not a prolific winner.

Exit to Wave

This chestnut gelding has not won a race since March 2001 although he has run some good races. That said he has not won over a distance greater than 2m 2f. His trainer thinks he will get further and he has been running him at around three miles for some time now. Last year he had a crack at the Scottish national but was pulled up. It is hard to recommend a horse that has tried so many times at longer distances and has yet to win at them but his running form shows that he could be suited to a longer trip. In his favour he will have one of the finest jockeys in the world on his back in the form of national winning jockey Ruby Walsh. A good horse but a lot has to be taken on trust. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 2f Past form: A winner of 8 from 33 starts including 5 hurdle and 3 chases Recent form: Started season in with a third place at Ascot over 3m 1/2 f before going on to try the Tripleprint Chase Showcase Handicap at Cheltenham and was going well when he slipped and eventually finished 5th. Next time out saw him run into third place in a chase at Sandown. In his next race at the same course over the same extended 3miles he was third again. Last time out the finished 6th of 6 finishers at Haydock. Points for:Weight, Jockey Points Against : Distance.

Clan Royal

Unbeaten in last three runs, including a 3m 3f race at this course over these fences. He has done nothing wrong and is a worthy favourite for this race. Lots of money has been seen for this horse and there is a major gamble going on here. He has all the credentials for this race and his connections are bullish about his chances. He was 4th in the Tony O'Malley Memorial Handicap Chase before coming to this country. And besides that had been running in lower class races, and continued to do so until last February. He then took the leap in class and he never looked back oozing class with every run. His last two runs were both at this course and he seems to love it and that is also a very good sign. Has strong claims. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from firm to soft and up to a distance of 3m 5f Past form: A winner of 7 from 19 starts including 1 hurdle and 6 chases. Recent form: Only race this season was in the Becher Chase at this course over these fences where he won really well beating Amberleigh House who was admittedly giving him weight but the two were well clear of the rest of the field. Points for:Course, fences , distance, weight Points Against : none

Akarus (FR)

This bay gelding has had an unlucky season so far, he fell in the Welsh National when going as well as any, In his next race he was not going well when pulled up on only other start. He is from the M.Pipe stable and therefore unless there is a problem he will be spot on for this race. An import from France where he was only out of the frame once in 11 runs he has not yet found the winning way here. His best placing can in the John Smith's Midlands Grand National Chase Showcase Handicap where he finished second over 4m 2f. He has only won twice and that was at distances below 3 miles and that would normally be a worry for me but he should get the trip. If back to best would have place claims. Needs soft ground to show his best. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from Soft to Heavy and up to a distance of 2m 7f Past form: A winner of 2 chases from 16 starts Recent form: only two runs this season a fall and a PU Points for:Weight Points Against : has not won over three miles

Spot Thedifference

10th in last years grand national shows that this horse is a distance horse however this bay gelding has tried the National fences twice and has failed to complete falling on both occasions, Once in the National and Once in the Foxhunters. This does not give confidence in this race from what is a good horse. He has not carried a weight as low as this since his last crack at the race and that should help. His best recent for was a second over 4m + in the Britannia Building Society English Summer National Showcase. It is hard to see him getting in the frame in this race but not impossible. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 5 from 32 starts including 2 chases and 3 hunter chases. Recent form:Two runs this year both in hunter chases where he finished 2nd of 14 and 5th of 24 Points for:weight Points Against : course, fences,

Bounce Back (FR)

A nice horse if not a prolific winner. His best run to date was in the Attheraces Gold Cup Chase Showcase Handicap at Sandown where he came out the winner. Another French import as so many of Martin Pipes horses are he started with him winning at Chepstow in December 2001. This horse could be another dark horse from a good stable if he is fit and well, however he ran well below form in the Welsh National (his last run) and this must be a bit of a worry. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 5f Past form: A winner of 5 from 27 starts including 2 hurdles and 2 chases and a flat race. Recent form:Two runs this season a good third in the williamhill.co.uk Marathon Chase and followed this with a disappointing PU in the Welsh National. Points for:weight Points Against : Poor last run, not reappeared for over 90 days.

Ardent Scout (FR)

A nice old horse this bay gelding who has shown a liking for this course and fences when he won the Tote Becher Chase Showcase Handicap in 2002. That was his last win. He was tried in the same race this season but he was hampered and his 3rd place a distance behind the first two perhaps is a little deceiving. He is a good horse if not a prolific winner and he should appreciate carrying bottom weight in this race as he is the last horse in the handicap proper at this stage. At 12 he can't be getting better but takes his chance on merit. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 3f Past form: A winner of 8 from 48 starts including 2 hurdles and 6 chase. Recent form:5 Runs so far this season with form figures of 4,3,4,4,10 the best of which was in the Becher chase (noted above) His 10th place was in the Tote Eider Chase and was the last position, but many horses did not finish the race that day. Points for:weight, distance, course Points Against : Age, not prolific winner.

Royal Predica (FR)

**NON_RUNNER**

Has not won since June 2001 but this chestnut gelding will know what's in store today. He has run in this race the last three years falling the first year then a good 8th before finishing 13th last year. He is a good horse but it is hard to see him win this race now given that he has tried when he has had better runs leading up to the race. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from Firm to Soft and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 7 from 35 starts including 1 hurdles and 6 chase. Recent form:Started season finishing last of the 10 finishers in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup Chase Showcase Handicap He was pulled up on his next outing but fared better next time when 5th in the Jupiter ISA Handicap Chase over 2m 4 ½ f. His last run was in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase where he fell. Points for:weight, distance, course Points Against : Age, Poor recent form.

Bear on board (FR)

Very interesting contender this Irish Point-to-pointer. There are only two poor runs in his form line and both came on heavy ground. However you can see that this bay gelding is genuine as he has also won on that type of going. At 10 he has not got many miles on the clock since coming here with only 13 Races but this has been down to him being looked after by his trainer. He could be something of a good thing here as he has won over 4 miles and has also won at Haydock which is a similar course. His best run so far was over 4m 1f at Cheltenham in the Miles Gosling Handicap Chase, if he handles the course and there is no reason to suspect he will not then he has strong claims. He runs from out of the handicap proper and only two horses have won from out of the handicap in the last 20 years but if the weights go up that will help him sneak in and will increase his chances. Not one to leave out of your calculations. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 4m 1f Past form: A winner of 5 from 13 starts including 1 hurdles and 4 chase. Recent form:Started season in the Forgive N'Forget Handicap Chase which he won at a distance of 3m. next time out he won again in the Christmas Time Handicap Chase. He made it three from three in the Miles Gosling Handicap Chase at Cheltenham in January over 4m1f and was a second in his last start at Haydock in February. Points for:weight, distance, course Points Against : none

Simply Gifted

**NON-RINNER**

This bay gelding has had ligament problems and has also had a wind operation before the start of the season where he is running for a new yard. He had been off the racecourse for over two years and made a winning re-appearance at Chepstow in the Saltwell Signs Handicap Chase in January. It was a little disappointing to see him loose his rider in the Grand Annual at the Cheltenham festival as it would have been good to see him stamp his well being for this race. However he has been running in races at distances half of this marathon and he has not shown that this big step up in distance would suit. This would be a surprise winner or placed horse. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 2m Past form: A winner of 7 from 32 starts including 3 hurdle and 3 chases and a flat race. Recent form: Two runs this season following a long lay off both at 2m 1f a win and a PU Points for:weight Points Against : distance,

Lord Atterbury

Only 4 hunter chase runs from this horse under rules. This bay gelding has been carrying big weight and winning well however he failed to complete last time out in the Christie's Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup where he was strongly fancied and was very much a talking horse. Impossible to access his form so could be anything. Not a certain starter but if he does take part the market will be the best guide. If A.P.McCoy takes this ride that would also be a strong pointer. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to good/soft and up to a distance of 4m 1f Past form: A winner of 3 from 4 hunter chases Recent form: only one run this year when pulled up in the Foxhunters at the festival. Points for:weight, could be much better than his rating Points Against : Not Much experience.

Mantles Prince

Only 10 years old and 55 races under his belt, this chestnut gelding owes his owners The Emlyn Hughes syndicate nothing. He has run on the flat over hurdles and also in chases. He does not seem to be a long distance horse as the furthest distance he has won at is 2m. He ran in this race last year and he unseated his rider at the 25th fence. Difficult to see him winning taking part in the finish of this race. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from soft to heavy and up to a distance of 2m Past form: A winner of 8 from 55 starts including 4 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: One run this year where he was a distant 6th in an all weather flat race. Points for:weight Points Against : Course, Distance.

Izogoud

**NON_RUNNER**

Another 2 and a half-mile horse running in the marathon. This bay gelding has some good form but most of it at shorter distances. Only 8 and therefore could yet make into a distance chaser but is difficult to fancy without winning form over longer trips. From a top stable and therefore can't be written off completely but looks to have it all to do here. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 4 from 22 starts including 2 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: Started season with a 9th place in the Hennessey and was pulled up next time out. On next run was much better in a lower class of race. Next time he was tried in the Racing Post Chase where he finished 3rd. He then added to that a good run at the festival in the Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup where he was second to Tikram over 2m 4f Points for:weight Points Against : Course, Distance.

Maximise

**NON-RUNNER**

A good long distance chaser who per=haps does not take to this course. He has run over these fences on two occasions and the first time in the National last year where he fell at the 19th and again earlier this year in the Becher Chase where he was pulled up when running poorly. This is a good horse who if he put it all together could run to a place but he seems not to like this course. Going and distance: has won on good ground and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 4 chases from 23 starts Recent form: Started season 4th in the valuable Badger Ales Handicap Chase at Wincanton and then went to Cheltenham and gave a good account to come 2nd in the Paddy Power Amateur Riders' Handicap Chase over 3m+ Next was his poor run in the Becher here and he followed that up with a 9th of 10 finishers at Newcastle over 4m1f. Last run of the season he ran in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase at the festival a race he won. He has talent but his seemingly disliking for Aintree and his liking for good ground may see his connections preferring the Scottish equivalent. Points for:weight Points Against : Course

Blowing Wind

A really nice brown/bay gelding who has run in this race three times before. In 2001 he was third in the race where he fell and was remounted. In 2002 He ran a great race and was a good 3rd behind Bindaree. Last year he ran another good race without looking as if he could win but ran on into 8th place. From this you can see that you will get a run for your money. He has run some good races and showed it in the Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup at the Cheltenham festival in 2002 by winning that event. At 11 he will not be getting better now and has not looked like his former self this season. To cap that in his last race he refused and unseated A.P.McCoy two from home. He is another who has not won a race longer than 2 m 4f. I guess we have seen the best of him and although he should get around it is hard to see him making the frame this year. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 9 from 39 starts including 3 hurdle and 6 chases. Recent form: His first race he was 4th of 6 in a 2m4f chase at Kempton, He was off to Ascot for his next a 2m3f+ race where he was under pressure early and could only manage 7th. Last time out he refused at Sandown before unseating his jockey. Points for:Course, weight, fences Points Against : Below par this season

Skycab

Another 2m 4f horse, this bay gelding has not had the best of seasons. He is an average horse who frankly looks out of his class here. His most memorable win was in the attheraces.co.uk Handicap Chase in April last year. Looks to have it all to do. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to soft and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 10 from 40 starts including 2 hurdle and 8 chases. Recent form: Form Figures this season are 9, ur, 7th and on his last outing was 5th in a 3m+ chase at Sandown Points for:Weight Points Against : Below par this season, Distance.

Wonder Weasel

A proper chaser this bay gelding, he has not got too many mile on the clock and has ran some good races however he has also got 4 PU's ,1 UR and 2 F in his form figures. He ran in the 2002 Scottish National , and unseated his rider and last year he was in this race where he fell, He tried the Becher Chase earlier this season and also fell. Looks one to past over. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good to heavy and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 5 chases from 23 starts. Recent form: Form Figures this season are 5, F,PU,PU,10,3 in the Crudwell Cup and on last outing was 7th in a 4m race at Kelso. Points for:Weight Points Against : Course, Fences

Smarty

Been off the course a long time and his participation in the Rivar Hunters' Chase was his first outing since November 2002. He knows the national, as he was second and was the only other horse not to fall in the 2001 Grand National. He ran in the 2002 race but was pulled up. With his long recent lay off and his form not being up to what is was lately is if difficult to see him taking part in the race for the placing's this season but he does like the course and if he gets back to his best he could make the frame but is another who has not yet shown the his top form yet this season. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/soft to soft and up to a distance of 3m 2f Past form: A winner of 6 from 29 starts including 1 hurdle and 5 chases. Recent form: two below par runs this season the first was a 4th in the Rivar Hunters' Chase and followed that up with a 7th in a class C chase at Newbury. Points for:Course, Distance Weight Points Against : Poor recent form after long lay off.

Silver Streak

A nice Grey Gelding this who had a great novice season in 2001/2002 but has been unable to transfer that form to handicaps. Has the stamina to win over 3miles but his recent form looks like he will have to improve an awful lot to take part in the finish here. Going and distance: has won on good ground and up to a distance of 3m 1f Past form: A winner of 3 from 21 starts including 1 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: Two runs this season the first saw him unseat his rider in an amateur race at Cheltenham and on final start was 5th over 3m+ at Ascot. Points for:Top horse Points Against : Weight

Luzcadou

A 2m-4f handicap chaser who has been tried at a long distance this season in the Tote Eider and was brought down at the 3rd. He is unproven at this class and this distance he is another who will have to show form well above what we have seen from him so far. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from soft to heavy and up to a distance of 2m 4f Past form: A winner of 6 from 32 starts including 2 hurdle and 4 chases. Recent form: Started season with figure of 8,F and 5 before winning a 2m 4f chase at Ayr in heavy ground. Has since finished 4, BU,PU. Points for:Weight Points Against : Distance

********* RESERVES *******

These horses will only run should others horses be taken out before mid-day on Friday 2nd

Montreal

Young Chaser with lots of races under his belt. This horse is prone to making jumping errors and that would be a worry here. His form this season has not been good and would have to show much improvement to take part in the finish here. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to good/soft and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 5 from 27 starts including 3 hurdle and 2 chases. Recent form: Form Figures this season are 6,4,SU.6.PU Points for:Weight Points Against : Distance, Poor Recent form, Age

Bramblehill Duke

A grand old timer who has won at 3 miles but looks better in shorter trips. He fell in this race last year at the 2nd fence after making a mistake at the first. Ran a good race to come second earlier in the season in the Tote Credit Club Handicap Chase at Taunton when he came 2nd. Another who would have to improve to take part in the finish but at 12 years old I can't see him improving that much. Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to heavy and up to a distance of 3m Past form: A winner of 8 from 39 starts including 3 hurdle and 4 chases and 1NHF. Recent form: Form figure for the season are 6,PU,3,2,5 and 7 Points for:Low Weight Points Against : Age, Course, Long way out of handicap

Kildorragh (IRE)

Only three lifetime wins and these were over 3m 2f but they were in much lower class races than this. Can look as if he is not really interested in this game. Will have to show much better form than we have seen previously to take any hand here. A long way out of the handicap Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/soft to soft and up to a distance of 3m 2f Past form: A winner of 3 chases from 25 starts. Recent form: Form figures for the season are PU,2,REF,PU,3 Points for:Low Weight Points Against : Long way out of handicap

Scotmail Boy

A big chaser who's main forte is his jumping. A really good jumper who has handled this course and fences before. He was a good 3rd in the John Hughes Trophy Chase Showcase Handicap in 2001. and even better when second I the betfair.com Grand Sefton Chase Showcase Handicap that is over the National course in 2002. Has won up to 3m 3f. Needs 4 to drop out to get his chance but who knows he's consistent and genuine and a good jumper! Going and distance: has won on ground ranging from good/firm to soft and up to a distance of 3m 3f Past form: A winner of 5 chases from 35 starts. Recent form: Form figures for the season are 2,1,1 Points for:Low Weight, good jumper, course, distance. Points Against : Long way out of handicap