Grand National Runners: Irish National Review
March 24th, 2008Grand National Runners - Did the Irish National come too close to Aintree for these horses?
Alexander Taipan, Royal County Star, Homer Wells and Cool Running
All of the above could potentially make the cut for the Grand National but how likely are they to turn up at Aintree after running at Fairyhouse over 3m 5f just twelve days before the Grand National? How did they run at Fairyhouse? Have any of them enhanced their Aintree chances if they do make the journey?
Alexander Taipan
Suffered a horrific fall midway through the race - . (Unfortunately Alexander Taipan’s injuries were fatal - commiserations to all concerned - Admin)
Royal County Star
The ante-post gamble of the race travelled like the winner for nearly the whole way but found very little over the last two fences. This must seriously bring into question his stamina at extreme distances, although he could improve for really good or good to firm ground. Even so, hard to see him as an Aintree National winner after this performance.
Homer Wells
Was beaten a long way from home and this was the latest in a serious of disappointing efforts. Very difficult to see how connections would want to take in Aintree on the back of such a dismal display.
Cool Running
Although he was Pulled Up, did not run that badly given he has been off the track since October and probably needed this race. Could be the horse most likely to turn up at Aintree (if he makes the cut at 10-6) and connections will be hoping for good or good to firm going.
The other Grand National entries such as Flintoff and Newbay Prop who ran here are unlikely to make the cut for the big race.
One other likely Grand National runner today when Hi Cloy finished runner-up in a 3 mile Hurdle . Connections will have been well satisfied with that but he has a mountain to climb at Aintree under his massive burden of 11 stone 12 lbs.
Brody Says:
March 25th, 2008 at 12:39 am
Great race today shame Royal county couldn’t quite get home.
Sadly Alexander Taipan didn’t make it and had to be put down, condolences to connections
Can’t see any of the other Irish National winners making it to the GN this year so soon after that stiff test on soft ground. Was on Hi Cloy for that hurdles race, no way will he get 4miles in a taxi his top trip is 2.5miles.
One horse I’m putting in the notebook for 2009 was Notre Pere will be 8 next year, jumping looked sound today and he stays longer than the mother in law, didn’t have the finishing kick today but over the longer trip who knows. Will be keeping taps for ‘09.
Mouse was also very bullish about Hear the Echo afterwards and stated a trip to Aintree is definitely on the radar for him next year too!