Saturday, April 3, 2004
MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL MEETING
RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE
AINTREE, SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2004
Martell Cognac Grand National
WINNING TRAINER INITIAL QUOTES
Winning trainer Ginger McCain, who saddled Red Rum to three Grand National victories in 1973, 1974 and 1977, said: “I think I am too old for that. I thought three out Graham (Lee) had given him too much to do - he was creeping and creeping and I thought magic we would be fourth.
“It was not very sporting but I was thinking get down the ones in front. Then the old horse came wide on the outside. Graham said he was going to hold him up more this year and he was quite correct.
“I never thought I was ever going to win another National - it was as simple as that. I would have been delighted to have been in the first eight. He is a great little horse round here, isn’t he. He is foot-perfect, a good sort of horse, a professional. He’s positive, he’s exact and he's the best thing that has happened to me for a long, long time.
“I would not have won it without John (Halewood the owner) - he said you are a doddering old bastard and it is time that you won another National and I shall be eternally grateful to him for giving me that opportunity.
“The credit goes to my son Donald who has lived this horse - he rides him in all his work and everything that goes with it. I am getting a bit too old and haven’t the patience to do what I used to do - credit to Donald.”
Ginger will hold open house at his Cheshire stables for the media at 11am tomorrow, Sunday.
Race 4 3.45 MARTELL GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP CHASE
DUMBSTRUCK JOCKEY
Graham Lee, who gave Amberleigh House the ride of a lifetime to win the world’s greatest steeplechase, was momentarily stuck for words after his exhilerating victory but recovered to say
“This is just a fairytale - a dream. I cannot believe it. He was just so tough - I didn’t have a very good passage down over the first six fences, with loose horses.
“He had to jump Bechers from a standstill first time around and he got a bit of fright but I just hunted away on him and never thought of winning to get his confidence back.
“He was so brave and all I had to do was steer.”
Jimmy Mangan, trainer of the fourth Monty’s Pass, said: “I couldn’t be more pleased with his run - absolutely delighted. He had a big weight and it was bound to tell out there.”
Race 4 3.45 MARTELL GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP CHASE
OWNER AND TRAINER
John Halewood, owner of the winner, was fighting back tears as he said:”It’s the best day of my life. That jockey Graham Lee gave Amberleigh House a brilliant ride. I’m a local lad, born in Liverpool and after I saw Red Rum win I vowed I’d come back one day and win the race.”
“I told everyone it would win and as I’ve got a big drinks firm there will be no shortage of celebrations tonight.”
Winning trainer Ginger McCain said: “I thought the National might have passed him by when he was third last year as he’s 12 now but then he ran well in the Bechers and I thought, if we could improve 3lb we’d have a chance.”
McCain, in ebullient mood, added: “I said if I could win another National I might retire and hand over to my son Donald, but bugger it he can wait. After all, Fred Rimell won four so we’ll come back next year and make it five! “
“All the credit for Amberleigh House goes to Donald and John. My son rides him out every day and John has provided me with the financial backing.
“John’s wife Judy used to train and ran Harley, who finished 12th in the 1991 National. I told him if i’d have trained the horse he’d have won. You shouldn’t let women mess around with racehorses.”
Describing how Amberleigh House had been bought by Halewood in Ireland, McCain said: “John bought him for about 90,000 punts off Michael Hourigan. I went over to see the horse and the woman who was selling him had the greatest legs I’d ever seen. I’m a great legs man and I couldn’t resist. I came home and let John do the deal.”
Race 4 3.45 MARTELL GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP CHASE
MORE JOCKEY, OWNER, TRAINER
Winning owner John Halewood was both effusive in his praise for Aintree Racecourse and McCain added: “You can keep your Ascot and your Cheltenham. Liverpool is the place.”
Graham Lee, reflecting on his winning ride aboard Amberleigh House said: “I promise you, eight out of 10 horses couldn’t have done what he did at Bechers. He jumped from a standstill, that’s why I was so far behind.”
“I ended up not being where I wanted to be because of loose horse and fallers and I didn’t want to go after him because he’s only got the one run. I just waited for the leaders to come back to me and luckily they did.”
MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL PLACED QUOTES
J P McManus, owner of second-placed Clan Royal, said: “It was a great effort and he ran his heart out. He was a bit free at Bechers but Liam got a great jump out of him. It’s a brilliant win for Ginger and full marks to him.”
Clan Royal’s rider Liam Cooper said: “He gave me a fantastic ride and I’m delighted for Amberleigh House and Graham Lee to be honest. I could have done with a lead two out but that’s the way it goes. I’m sick as a pig to be honest but also delighted to have got round and done so well.”
Jimmy Mangan, trainer of fourth-placed Monty’s Pass, said: “I’m absolutely delighted but he just had too much weight. He will be especially trained for this again next year, he’ll probably have a few runs over hurdles beforehand, but he seems to love this place.”
Barry Geraghty, rider of Monty’s Pass, said: “It was a combination of the weight and ground that beat him. He’s a much better horse on fast ground but you can’t have that every year.”
Hedgehunter was travelling ominously well when coming down two out and his jockey David Casey said: “He was probably just going too well and had to do too much in front. He didn’t deserve to fall, it was very unfortunate. I’m disappointed but more disappointed for the horse.
“He was just tired and gave me everything all the way. I was getting tired but felt the two in front were coming back to me. It was a super ride, I was enjoying it and he was enjoying it. Let’s hope he’s back next year.”
Davy Russell, rider of faller Takagi, said: “We were just starting to get into it but he left his hind legs in the ditch and it was goodnight after that.”
Paul Carberry, rider of Joss Naylor, said: “I was never travelling”
MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL JOCKEY QUOTES
Conor O’Dwyer: (Le Coudray): “ I got to Bechers second time. He jumped well prior to that and was going OK but it was a long way out and its hard to know would have happened.”
JP McManus (owner of Clan Royal) : “I was living in hope but he did not have a lot to give at the end. He was keen from Bechers second time round.Liam Cooper gave him a great ride.”
Mark Bradburne, rider of third-placed Lord Atterbury, said: “He’s wanted to stay on his feet the whole way round, He kept on his feet and kept me. I just loved where I was, I missed the break but kept him in the first dozen so was always hopeful.
“If Rodi Greene had not been there I would have been taken out by the loose horse. All I do is stay, I knew he was not the quickest, that’s why I had to be where I was.”
Barry Geraghty (Monty’s Pass): “No excuses. He just ran a fantastic race as we expected but it’s possible that the ground had gone against him. He gave his all as usual.”
Richard Johnson (What’s Up Boys): “We were brought down at Bechers first time round when a horse fell in front of him he had nowhere to go.”
Shay Bary (Alexander Banquet) “We got to the one before Bechers second time but he was beginning to struggle. He gave me a great ride until a loose horse fell infront of us and he jumped into the board.”
Mick Fitzgerald (Kingsmark): “No excuses for him. We got round but he did not have the pace to get competitive.”
Dominic Elsworth (Artic Jack): “It was shortlived. We fell at the first.”
Timmy Murphy (David’s Lad) “We got round but we could get to the leaders and after the rain the ground was a bit too soft.”
Danny Howard (Puntal): “He gave me the thrill of a lifetime and jumped brilliantly.”
David Casey (Hedgehunter): “He ran a fantastic race and jumped brilliantly but he was empty when he came down.”
Davy Russell (Takagi): “He was going really well when he left his hind legs in The Chair. He was just getting into his rhythm and I was happy with him.”
Jim Culloty (Just In Debt): “We got to Foinavon the second time round but he was losing touch when he came down.”
Robert Thornton (Bear On Board): “I had two falls before the start because he got rid of me twice. He ran a solid race, jumping really well but we thought he might just lack the pace to reach the leaders and he got very tired in the closing stages.”
Andrew Tinkler (Smarty): “I think we finished in sixth place. We were no danger on the second circuit but he kept trying the whole way and it was a fantastic experience.”
Tony McCoy (Jurancon II): “I am disappointed but I am alright.”
Andrew Thornton (Bounce Back): “We turned a right somersault at Bechers.”
Paul Carberry (Joss Naylor): “ He was never really going and he was not really enjoying the experience.”
Seamus Durack (Risk Accessor): “The loose horse caused a bit of traffic and interference.”
Ross Geraghty (The Bunny Boiler): ”He was always jumping that bit slowly and they got away from us on the final circuit.”
Paul Moloney (Royal Atalza) said: “He gave me a brilliant ride but the trip was just too far for him. He’d be just the horse for the Topham next year. I pulled him up before two out.”
Ollie McPhail (Mantles Prince): “I pulled him up after he jumped the chair, he just didn’t have a cut at the fences like he did last year.”
Jimmy McCarthy (Blowing Wind): “He’s getting on now and refused at Bechers first time.”
JP McNamara (Wonder Weasel): “He lasted a lot longer than last year but they were always going too qucik from him from halfway but he gave me real good spin.”
Brian Harding (Luzcadou): “He fell at the first.”
ALL HORSES FINE
Davies and Scudamore Taken To Fazakerley
Tom Scudamore, rider of Shardam in the Martell Cognac Grand National, has been taken to Fazkerley Hospital with a suspected broken wrist and James Davies, who partnered Bramblehill Duke, has gone to the same hospital with neck injuries.
All the horses returned back fine after the Martell Cognac Grand National.
FOURTH RACE QUOTES
MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP CHASE (GRADE 3)
MORE JOCKEY QUOTES
Paul Moloney, who pulled up Royal Atalza before the 29th fence, said: “He just didn’t stay the trip, but he could be brilliant in next year’s Topham Trophy.
“It was great fun, brilliant. He was going really well on the second circuit but it was just too far.”
Warren Marston, who finished seventh on Ardent Scout, said: “He jumped great and never touched a fence, but I got hampered at Becher’s both times, especially on the second circuit when there were loose horses. Otherwise I might have finished fourth or fifth. The ground was plenty quick enough.”
Joey Elliott, who fell on Montreal at Becher’s Brook on the first circuit, said: “I was midway back, perhaps a bit handier, when a loose horse came across and ran into a couple of us and I came down.”
Rodi Greene, who fell at Becher’s Brook first time around on Akarus, said : “A loose horse ran down the fence and I suppose you could say that we were baulked and I could not jump the fence. He jumped super until then, and although there was a long way to go, I was happy up until then.”
Record £200 million gambled on the National
This year's Grand National has broken all records for turnover with a massive £200 million taken in bets on the race.
Turnover was up 20% and Ladbrokes alone took £40 million on the Aintree thriller.
Ladbrokes spokesman Balthazar Fabricius said: "Turnover was up in betting shops, and there was an even bigger increase in telephone and internet betting."
"With Mr Aintree training the winner, it was a popular result for punters."
"Ginger McCain is the first trainer to win two Grand National in a day after Red Rum won the virtual Grand National."
House 500-1 to emulate 'Rummy'
Ladbrokes offer 500-1 that Ginger McCain's Amberleigh House can emulate the achievements of McCain's great chaser Red Rum and win three Grand Nationals.
Ladbrokes go such a huge price due to the relative ages of the two horses when they won their first National.
Ladbrokes spokesman Balthazar Fabricius said: "Red Rum was an eight-year-old when he won his Grand National in 1973. Amberleigh House is 12 so time is not on his side to emulate Rummy. That's why we have offered the 500-1 about Amberleigh House to win the next two Nationals.
"Amberleigh House's win was popular with punters. No matter what Ginger McCain runs in the National we know we will see money for it and when the horse has such good Aintree form as Amberleigh House did then we know it will be well backed."
Race 4 3.45 MARTELL GRAND NATIONAL CHASE
OVERWEIGHTS
No 36 Skycab 10-1
No 37 Wonder Weasel 10- 6
FOURTH RACE RESULT - FINAL RESULT
3.45pm THE 2004 MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL
Class A, Showcase Handicap, Total Prize Fund £600,000, Four Miles & Four Furlongs (Over the Grand National Course). For six-year-olds and upwards which are allotted a rating of 110 or more by the Senior BHB NH Handicapper following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including February 1. Horses which are not qualified for a rating in Great Britain or Ireland at January 21 may also be entered. Such horses may be eligible for a weight providing the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances to February 1 would merit a minimum rating of 110, and that the horse has either won a Steeple Chase or Hurdle Race, or has run at least three times collectively in Steeple Chases or Hurdle Races run under the Rules of Racing of the same Recognised Turf Authority by February 1. At the Handicapper’s discretion, such horses may be allotted a rating. The decision of the Senior BHB NH Handicapper shall be final. Penalty Values: 1st: £348,000; 2nd: £132,000; 3rd: £66,000; 4th: £30,000; 5th: £15,000; 6th: £9,000
1) AMBERLEIGH HOUSE (Halewood International Ltd) Ginger McCain 12-10-10 Graham Lee 16/1
2) CLAN ROYAL (J P McMAnus) Jonjo O'Neill 9-10-05 Liam Cooper 10/1 Co Fav
3) LORD ATTERBURY (David Johnson) Martin Pipe 8-10-01 Mark Bradburne 40/1
4) MONTY'S PASS (Dee Racing Syndicate) Jimmy Mangan IRE 11-11-10 Barry Geraghty 20/1
5) SPOT THEDIFFERENCE (J P McManus) Enda Bolger IRE 11-10-04 Richard McGrath
6) SMARTY (Tracy Brown) Mark Pitman 11-10-00 Andrew Tinkler
7) ARDENT SCOUT (Alicia & Warren Skene) Sue Smith 12-10-03 Warren Marston
8) BEAR ON BOARD (Jim Brown) Alan King 9-10-01 Robert Thornton
9) KINGSMARK (Sir Robert Ogden) Martin Todhunter 11-11-07 Mick Fitzgerald
10) THE BUNNY BOILER (The Usual Suspects Syndicate) Noel Meade IRE 10-10-08 Ross Geraghty
11) DAVIDS LAD (Eddie Joe’s Racing Syndicate) Tony Martin IRE 10-11-04 Timmy Murphy
BD 1) KELAMI (Halewood International Ltd) Francois Doumen FR t6-10-07 Thierry Doumen
BD 6) WHAT'S UP BOYS (Jacky Deithrick) Philip Hobbs b10-11-09 Richard Johnson
F 1) LUZCADOU (Andrew Chappell) Ferdy Murphy b11-10-00 Brian Harding
F 6) BOUNCE BACK (Belinda Harvey) Martin Pipe b8-10-04 Andrew Thornton
F 6) MONTREAL (David Johnson) Martin Pipe 7-10-00 Joey Elliott
F 18) ALEXANDER BANQUET (Miriam O’Callaghan) Willie Mullins IRE 11-11-08 Shay Barry
F 6) RISK ACCESSOR (J P McManus) Christy Roche IRE 9-11-04 Seamus Durack
F 1) ARTIC JACK (Trevor Hemmingfs) Sue Smith 8-11-07 Dominic Elsworth
F LAST) HEDGEHUNTER (Trevor Hemmings) Willie Mullins IRE 8-10-12 David Casey
F 4) JURANCON II (David Johnson) Martin Pipe 7-10-07 Tony McCoy 10/1 Co Fav
F 6) AKARUS (John White) Martin Pipe 9-10-04 Rodi Greene 10/1 Co
F 22) LE COUDRAY (J P McManus) Christy Roche IRE t10-11-12 Conor O'Dwyer
F6) SKYCAB (P H Betts (Holdings) Ltd) Nick Gifford 12-10-001 (1lb ow)Aspell
PU BEF 9) EXIT TO WAVE (Malcolm Pearce & Gerry Mizel II) Paul Nicholls t8-10-05 Bobby McNally
PU BEF 2 OUT) ROYAL ATALZA (Terry Ramsden) Conrad Allen p7-10-06 Paul Moloney
PU BEF 20) GUNNER WELBURN (William Ritson, David Hall, D Ellis) Andrew Balding 12-10-08 Tony Dobbin
PU BEF 19) JOSS NAYLOR (Darren Mercer) Jonjo O'Neill 9-10-11 Paul Carberry 10/1 Co Fav
PU BEF 25) ALCAPONE (Ann Daly) Mouse Morric(IRE 10-11-00 Noel Fehily
PU BEF 3 OUT) WONDER WEASEL (Alan Halsall) Kim Bailey p11-10-06 (6lb ow)J P McNamara
PU BEF 18) SOUTHERN STAR (Trevor Hemmings) Henrietta Knight 9-10-13 Joe Tizzard
PU AFT 16) MANTLES PRINCE (Emlyn Hughes’ Cleobury Golfers) Alan Juckes v1 20-10-01 Ollie McPhail
REF 6) BRAMBLEHILL DUKE (Mel Davies) Venetia Williams 12-10-00 James Davies
REF 6) BLOWING WIND (Peter Deal) Martin Pipe 11-10-01 Jimmy McCarthy
UR 23) JUST IN DEBT (Bill Hazeldean) Martin Todhunter 8-10-05 Jim Culloty
UR 3) SHARDAM (Howard & Alan Parker) Nigel Twiston-Davies 7-10-11 Tom Scudamore
UR 19) PUNTAL (Terry Neill) Martin Pipe t8-10-13 Danny Howard
UR 15) TAKAGI (Dermot Cox) Edward O'Grady IRE v1 9-10-11 Davy Russell
UR 6) BINDAREE (Raymond Mould) Nigel Twiston-Davies 10-11-04 Carl Llewellyn 10/1 Co Fav
39 ran Non-Runner: Tyneandthyneagain (ground)
Breeder: Robert McCarthy Breeding: br g Buckskin (FR) - Chancy Gal
Distances: 3, 2, 29, 1, 3.5, 17, 8, 18, nk, dist
Tote Win: £15.50 Places: £3.00; £3.40; £14.50; £5.10 Exacta: £124.50
Winning trainer: GINGER MCCAIN Born: September 21, 1930 Based: Bankhouse, Cholmoneley, Cheshire Horses in Training (1996-2003): 41; 44; 54; 57; N/R; 53; 56; 47 Number of Winners (1995/96-2002/03): 4; 2; 5; 11; 14; 6; 10; 11 Date of First Trainer’s Licence: Permit 1952. Licence 1969 Major Wins Include: Martell Cognac Grand National (1973, 1974, 1977 Red Rum, 2004 Amberleigh House)
Winning Jockey: Graham Lee Born: December 16, 1975 Background: Irish pony-racing circuit, left school at 15 to join handler Noel Meade. Five rides for Meade then joined Dessie McDonogh in County Meath. Ger Lyons then obtained Lee a position with Mary Reveley when he was 17. Began riding out for Bill Haigh, before joining Malcolm Jefferson. Number of Wins (1993/94-2002/03): 6; 20; 11; 16; 21; 24; 28; 25; 58; 66 First Winner: Navan, November 7, 1992, Blushing Pearl Big Race Wins: Charlie Hall Chase (2003 Ballybough Rasher) Aintree Festival Wins: Martell Cognac Beeefeater Restaurants Handicap Hurdle (2004 Batswing), Martell Cognac Grand National (2004 Amberleigh House)
2004 MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL FACTS
Youngest Jockeys:
Andrew Tinkler (Smarty) 18
James Davies (Bramblehill Duke) 19
Oldest Jockeys:
Carl Llewellyn (Bindaree) 38
Conor O’Dwyer (Le Coudray) 37
First-time jockeys:
Andrew Tinkler (Smarty)
James Davies (Bramblehill Duke)
Ross Geraghty (The Bunny Boiler)
Joey Elliott (Montreal)
Henry Oliver (Tyneandthyneagain)
Bobby McNally (Exit To Wave)
Most successful jockeys:
Carl Llewellyn (Bindaree) 2 wins from 12 rides
Jim Culloty (Just In Debt) 1 win from 5 rides
Paul Carberry (Joss Naylor) 1 win from 8 rides
Mick Fitzgerald (Kingsmark) 1 win from 8 rides
Least successful jockeys:
Tony McCoy (Jurancon II) 0 wins from 8 rides
Conor O’Dwyer (Le Coudray) 0 wins from 8 rides
Andrew Thornton (Bounce BacK) 0 wins from 8 rides
Youngest trainers:
Andrew Balding (Gunner Welburn) 31
Nick Gifford (Skycab) 32
Oldest trainers:
Ginger McCain (Amberleigh House) 73
Francois Doumen (Kelami) 63
Winning trainers:
Ginger McCain (Amberleigh House) (3 wins before 1980, 14 unsuccessful runners since)
Nigel Twiston-Davies (Bindaree, Shardam) 2 wins from 19 runners
Jimmy Mangan IRE (Monty’s Pass) 1 winner from 1 runner
Kim Bailey (Wonder Weasel) 1 winner from 16 runners
Martin Pipe (Puntal, Jurancon II, Akarus, Bounce Back, Lord Atterbury, Blowing Wind, Montreal) 1 winner from 66 runners
Least successful trainers:
Paul Nicholls (Exit To Wave) 0 wins from 22 runners
Mouse Morris (Alcapone) 0 wins from 14 runners
Philip Hobbs (What’s Up Boys) 0 wins from 12 runners
Ferdy Murphy (Luzcadou) 0 wins from 9 runners
Venetia Williams (Bramblehill Duke) 0 wins from 9 runners
Francois Doumen (Kelami) 0 wins from 6 runners
Oldest Horses:
Amberleigh House, Ardent Scout, Bramblehill Duke, Skycab - 12-year-olds
Youngest Horse:
Kelami - 6-year-old
Biggest Earner:
Monty’s Pass £511,881 in prize money
Lowest Earner:
Just In Debt £41,697 in prize money
2004 GRAND NATIONAL SMASHES ALL RECORDS
A great day for the bookies as turnover on Grand National day smashed the £200-million mark and the results worked out pretty well too - Arsenal being beaten in the football and a sporting result with Ginger 'Red Rum' McCain's Amberleigh House winning the National.
Hills spokesman David Hood said, "What a great result for everyone - the 'Red Rum' factor made Amberleigh House a popular choice, but from our point of view he also managed to prevent the well tipped Clan Royal from winning!"
"We are delighted with the day, the shops were packed to the rafters, the Internet was flooded and the telephones were ringing off the hook as soon as the Man Utd / Arsenal match finished! We predicted a new record for turnover would be set and it has surpassed all our expectations!"
Hills make Amberleigh House a 25-1 shot for a repeat victory next year, while places Lord Atterbury and Clan Royal are both 20-1 chances.
TODAY’S CROWD
Today’s attendance of 70,739 is the highest on Martell Cognac Grand National day since the 74,189 seen in 1989 while last year’s crowd came to 68,180.
The three-day attendance of 147,439 is the highest seen at Aintree in modern times, with last year’s coming in at 138,060.
Friday’s crowd was a record 50,500, beating last year’s figure of 47,430.
The first-day crowd of 26,200 was a new record for the Thursday of the Grand National meeting, being up 3,750 (+17% (per cent) on the 22,450 racegoers seen last year.
RECORD TOTEPOOL TURNOVER
Today’s totepool turnover came to £1,758,783 at Aintree racecourse, up 7.7 per cent on the 2003 figure of £1,663,723.
The three-day total was a new record - £4,461,670, up 10.7 per cent on the 2003 total of £4,029,914.
Day 2004 2003
Friday £1,626,907 £1,474,021 +10 per cent
Thursday £1,075,980 £892,170 +20.6 per cent
PIPE RETAKES LEAD IN TRAINERS’ TITLE
At the conclusion of the Martell Cognac Grand National meeting Martin Pipe has retaken the lead in his battle with Paul Nicholls for the trainers’ championship.
Pipe’s Well Chief won the Martell Cognac Maghull Novices’ Chase, beating Nicholls’ Thisthatandother, and winning £58,000, but Pipe gained a bigger payout when Lord Atterbury finished third in the Martell Cognac Grand National, picking up £66,000.
Pipe’s total now stands at £2,106,669, which is £86,215 ahead of Nicholls, who has earned £2,020,454.
Pipe won the Daily Telegraph Award for leading trainer at the meeting.
FIRST RACE WINNING QUOTES
MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE
FIRST AINTREE WIN FOR TEENAGER WALSH
Christy Roche’s 18-year-old apprentice Mark Walsh had a dream first ride at Aintree when landing the opening Martell Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle aboard Puck Out.
Walsh - whose cousin David is a former conditional with Nigel Twiston-Davies - was landing his 15th success and lost his 7lb claim with this victory.
“I haven’t ridden here before so I walked the course beforehand,” said Walsh, who has been with Roche since leaving school two years ago. “The only time I had ridden over here before was when I had a couple of rides at Cheltenham’s Paddy Power meeting in November.
“I was lucky not to get brought down at the second hurdle when Barry Geraghty came down.”
Roche was full of praise for the rider. “He rode for me in the school holidays before he joined me full time and he will still be value for a 5lb claim,” said the trainer.
“I bought the horse off his breeder Willie Robinson, of Team Spirit fame, and the horse’s sister and brother were five-furlong horses. So Willie was a bit surprised when he came down to see him that I had his balls cut and he was in a field of 20 store horses.
“He had to be pulled up at Ascot when he last ran and my horses haven’t been right so he hasn’t run since. I’ve got no real plans for him now.”
Roche is also increasingly confident about Le Coudray’s Martell Cognac Grand National. “We were debating whether to take him out because of the ground but we’ve decided to let him take his chance. It’s a big ask off top weight but if it wasn’t Aintree you’d fancy him to beat the eight or nine below him.
“But he’s in brilliant form, stays well and I think the race is made for him - I’m quietly confident.”
Paul Carberry who was brought down on Portant Fella was treated for a cut lip.
RACE 1 1.45 MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE
GREAT START
J P McMANUS, owner of the winner Puck Out, said:”It’s a great start, great for Mark. It’s his first ride around Liverpool and I think it’s his last ride claiming 7lb.
“We’re hopeful of ours in the National but it’s nice to get one (winner). Hopefully, we’ll bring off the double now but it’s nice to get this one anyway.
“I’ve had a little bit on Le Coudray, as I think he’s the class horse of the race and I wouldn’t be surprised if he runs a big race and Christy (Roche) has shown that he’s in form”.
FIRST RACE PLACED QUOTES
MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE (LISTED RACE)
JACK DAWSON MAKES
BERRY PROUD
Jack Dawson, who had not raced over jumps since 2002, ran a fine race to take third, 8l behind winner Puck Out.
The seven-year-old gave jockey Jim Culloty a good warm-up for a more important assignment later in the day, and trainer John Berry said: “We’re delighted with him, especially on ground that’s softer than he likes.
“Jim said the Merewood Homes Handicap Hurdle at Haydock would be perfect for him and the ground is likely to be more suitable.
“He ran on the Flat last summer, but reared up in the stalls at Musselburgh and pulled muscles in his back.
“He was lame after that and needed a break, but we trained him for this race and he was fit enough. He won’t improve a lot for it, but today he was taking on horses who have been running all season.
“We’re very proud of him.”
GROUND NEWS FROM JOCKEYS
The rain before racing seems to have got into the ground according to jockeys in the Martell Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle, the first race on the card.
Jim Culloty, who rode third placed Jack Dawson described the course as "just on the easy side of good" with Warren Marston reporting the conditions on the "soft side of good."
Both Mick Fitzgerald and Tony Dobbin, described the going as "slow"
SECOND RACE QUOTES
MARTELL COGNAC MAGHULL NOVICES’ CHASE (GRADE 1)
CHIEF PROVES TOPS
The Martin Pipe-trained Well Chief proved himself the champion two-mile novice chaser when running out an emphatic winner of this race. The beaten horses included runner-up Thisthatandtother, who had fallen in the Arkle Trophy, won by Well Chief.
Reflecting on the two races, owner David Johnson said: “The Arkle wasn’t a fluke! A few people thought we were lucky [because Thisthatandtother fell].
“AP [McCoy] gave him a great ride from way out of his ground, but you can tell when AP’s worried and he didn’t move until he needed to.
“I shouldn’t think he’ll run again this season – the girls [his family] want to take the horse home.”
Martin Pipe said: “I was a bit worried turning for home but AP timed it to perfection and the race changed very quickly. The horse has plenty of
speed.”
Immediately after the race, bookmaker Paddy Power offered Well Chief at 7-1 (from 10-1) for next year's Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.
MARTELL COGNAC AINTREE HURDLE
RHINESTONE FIRST
Jonjo O’Neill could well aim Rhinestone Cowboy at the bonusprint.com Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham next year after the Sue Magnier owned eight-year-old held off the challenge of Rooster Booster to win the Martell Cognac Aintree Hurdle in a thrilling finish.
Rhinestone Cowboy had been entered in both the Smurfit Champion Hurdle and the Stayers’ Hurdle before opting for the Coral Cup, finishing third under top-weight, and O’Neill said: “Two and half miles suits him better than two miles.
“If I have any say in the matter, I would not want him to go chasing next season and look instead at the Stayers Hurdle.”
He added: “He was always been a straightforward horse and he has had a couple of problems that have not been his fault. JP (Magnier) has always ridden the horse well and Rhinestone has always been a good horse.
“The horse got himself into trouble but he got out of it again.”
John Paul Magnier, a student at Dublin University, is the 19-year-old son of John and Sue Magnier, and he said: “That was brilliant. I was worried, of course, when we were crowded at the second last but he just picked up again and ran all the way to the line.
Race Three - Martell Cognac Aintree Hurdle
Placed Quotes
ROOSTER BOOSTER “IN FRONT TOO SOON”
Sometimes you can jump a hurdle too well, and both Philip Hobbs and Richard Johnson felt that pinging the final flight cost last year’s Champion Hurdler the race.
Hobbs said:”Rooster Booster missed the second last, and, as a result, Richard had to squeeze him up and he ended up hitting the front too soon.
“However, there were still five horses in line at the last, so if he had made a mistake there he would not have won anyway, so we can’t complain.
“The plan had been to wait until after the last, but things did not work out. He has still run a brilliant race and is so tough that he will now go on to Punchestown.,”
Matt Archer, part-owner of third-placed Westender, is already looking forward to a career over fences next season.
He said:”He has schooled well for Tony (McCoy) and, though we were at one time considering the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham, we decided to stay hurdling for another season.
“If he had jumped the second last running it might have made a difference, but the rain didn’t help. He loves fast ground and I just wish the race had been run yesterday.”
Former Newcastle soccer star Terry McDermott, who heads the syndicate who own fourth-placed Intersky Falcon, was justifiably proud of his horse.
He said:”He has run a cracker. I stressed beforehand than anywhere in the first four would do, but he travelled so well that I thought he would win at the second last.
“Liam (Cooper) said he got the two and a half miles well, but he has always had a bit of a wind problem and after the last he gasped and emptied out. I would think Jonjo (O’Neill) might have done sooner rather than later.”
SIXTH RACE
MARTELL COGNAC CHAMPION STANDARD NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE
DIAMOND SAL SPRINGS 33/1 SHOCK IN FINALE
The Mary Reveley-trained Diamond Sal, ridden by Fergus King, showed a marked improvement in form to land the concluding Martell Cognac Champion Standard National Hunt Flat Race at 33/1.
“She has always been a high-class mare,” said Don Carcary, travelling head lad to Reveley.
“We always thought she could win a race but she has been her own worst enemy because she just wouldn’t settle and ran too free.
“But last time she ran well in a decent bumper at Sandown, she settled that day but the soft ground was her undoing then.”
MADDEN GIVEN SIX-DAY WHIP BAN
GOING STILL GOOD
Aintree missed the rain last night, getting only a spots of drizzle, but there was a brief shower at 10.50am this morning and up to two millimetres are expected to fall on the course before the Martell Cognac Grand National at 3.45pm.
The going is GOOD on all three courses, the National, Mildmay and hurdle courses.
Andrew Tulloch, Aintree’s clerk of the course said: “I am just walking the Grand National course at the moment and the ground is in excellent shape.
“There is fresh ground on the hurdle course as we have moved the bends and relocated the hurdles.”
VALET’S TIP: BINDAREE!
Few people will be closer to the action today than Chris Maude, who works in the Aintree jockeys’ changing room as a valet.
A retired jockey, he now looks after the riding kit of his ex-colleagues - that includes cleaning and maintaining their saddles and boots, and making sure they weigh out with the right amount of lead in place. But valets are also a shoulder to cry on and someone to pick up the pieces when jockeys take a tumble.
Maude knows about the special tensions of Grand National Saturday, and said this morning: “There’s a real buzz in the weighing room on this day. I remember as a jockey driving to Aintree and thinking, ‘this is it, the thing I have always wanted to do since I was a child’.”
Maude’s record in the Martell Cognac Grand National was not great - he rode in the race eight times, and his best result was fifth, on Young Hustler, in 1996, when Rough Quest was the winner.
“I did better in the other races over the Aintree fences,” he said. “I won the John Hughes twice, on Young Hustler and Indian Tonic, and also won the Becher Chase on Young Hustler. I miss riding, especially on days like this, but at least I’m part of the action.”
By 11am this morning quite a few of Maude’s clients had clocked on for work. “Some are having physio after taking falls yesterday, while others are in the sauna,” he said. “Some have to go to [corporate] boxes to give talks, and they like to get that sort of thing done early so they can concentrate on the race.”
And Maude’s tip for Grand National victory - “Bindaree. I think he’s got a great chance, as long as he doesn’t bellyflop at Becher’s, like he did last year.”
HRH THE PRINCESS ROYAL GUEST OF HONOUR AT INJURED JOCKEYS FUND'S 40th BIRTHDAY
HRH The Princess Royal will be Guest of Honour on the occasion of the Injured Jockeys Fund's 40th birthday at Aintree today (Saturday, April 3), the day of the Martell Cognac Grand National.
Today also sees the formal launch of an eight-page colour review looking back on the Fund's first 40 years and looking forward to its plans for the future.
The Fund, originally named the Injured National Hunt Jockeys Fund, was founded in 1964 following the falls and injuries to two leading jump jockeys of that era - Paddy Farrell's in the '64 National, and Tim Brookshaw's at Aintree's December meeting, four months earlier.
These falls left them both paralysed. Re-named the Injured Jockeys Fund in 1971, it has since helped over 1,000 injured jockeys (and their spouses and dependants) to put their lives back on track. Help is provided in many ways, but primarily financial in the form of weekly and monthly grants.
The Princess Royal followed in the footsteps of the late Queen Mother when she became the Injured Jockeys Fund's new Patron last year. At Aintree, she will meet many beneficiaries who have their own Grand National memories. These include: former champion jump jockey Jack Dowdeswell, now 86 years of age, who was champion jockey before the war and rode in eight Grand Nationals; Paddy Broderick, who rode in five, Pat McCarron, (4, coming second twice) and John Ciechanowski, (2); amongst many others (see below).
Also present will be Trustees, Almoners, staff and some key supporters of the Fund.
HRH will be photographed privately with a group of IJF beneficiaries who have formerly had rides in the Grand National. These include: Lord Oaksey, Michael Scudamore, Peter Scudamore, Terry Biddlecombe, John Buckingham, Jack Dowdeswell, Stan Mellor, David Mould, Paddy Broderick, Gerry Scott, Rodney Farrant, Johnny Kenneally, John Ciechanowski, Pat McCarron, Billy Worthington, Pat Hurley, Simon McNeill, Bob McCreery, Bill Smith and Brough Scott.
Copies of the above photograph will be available on request.
Further information from Jeremy Richardson, Chief Executive (01 638 662246 or 07890 830 876), or almoners Lady Chicky Oaksey (01 666 577 303) or Mrs Elaine Wiles (01 977 620 264), or any of the Trustees - Lord Oaksey, Sir Edward Cazalet, Brough Scott, Simon P Tindall, John Fairley, John L Smith, Simon McNeill, Jonathan Powell, Peter Scudamore, MBE and Jack Berry MBE.
UPDATED JOCKEY CHANGES
RACE 1 1.45 MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE
No 1 LIMERICK BOY Tony Dobbin
RACE 2 2.20 MARTELL COGNAC MAGHULL NOVICES CHASE
No 8 THISTHATANDTOTHER Joe Tizzard
RACE 3 2.55 MARTELL COGNAC AINTREE HURDLE
No 8 SPORAZENE Joe Tizzard
RACE 4 3.45 MARTELL COGNAC GRAND NATIONAL CHASE
No 26 EXIT TO WAVE Bobby McNally
RACE 5 4.35 MARTELL COGNAC NOVICES HANDICAP CHASE (amateur riders)
No 4 KELTIC BARD Mr DAVID DUNSDON
UPDATED NON RUNNERS
RACE 1 MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE
No 3 SPECTROMETER
No 15 BERNARDON
RACE 5 4.35 MARTELL COGNAC NOVICES HANDICAP CHASE (amateur riders)
No 10 MERCATO
No 11 JASMIN GUICHOIS
RACE 6 5.10 MARTELL COGNAC CHAMPION STANDARD NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE
No 7 THYNE FOR INTERSKY
No 18 GOLDEN ODYSSEY
LOOKING GOOD FOR INJURED NATIONAL RIDERS
Carl Llewellyn, who suffered a bruised thumb in a spill from Whereareyounow at Bechers in the Martell Cognac Topham Chase yesterday, has been passed fit to ride this morning.
Llewellyn, who has ridden winners of the Grand National (Party Politics in 1992 and Earth Summit in 1998), partners Bindaree in today’s Martell Cognac-sponsored big chase.
Leighton Aspell, who partners Skycab in the National, has also been given the all-clear, as has Mick FitzGerald, who is due to ride Kingsmark in the big one.
BETTING NEWS AT NOON
Bookmakers expect today’s Martell Cognac Grand National to be one of the most open for years with a broad spectrum of money for several horses rather than any one in particular.
Coral’s spokesman Simon Clare said: “It’s the first Grand National in decades when we won’t have changed the price of any horse before racing, showing what an open race it is.” The best-backed horses with the Barking-based bookmaker have been Gunner Welburn and Artic Jack, though their prices have not changed.
William Hill’s David Hood added: “We’re very chuffed with our National book. We were best price on ten of the first 13 in the betting this morning and consequently have laid every one.”
The tote face a big six-figure payount if outsider Skycab comes home in front. The Wigan firm have laid a bet of Ù1,000 each-way at 200/1 on Nick Gifford’s charge, who has now been cut to 100/1.
The Pricewise horse Le Coudray is 22/1 from 33/1 with the tote, who have also cut Just In Debt from 33/1 to 28/1.
Skybet ducked Le Coudray, going 18/1, and the Harrogate company have not cut any horse, seeing a broad range of interest.
Ladbrokes have clipped Jurancon II from 11/1 to 10/1 and The Bunny Boiler is 66/1 from 100/1 with the same company.
Paddy Power, who offer 33/1 that Clare Balding cries if Gunner Welburn wins, make Joss Naylor 10/1 joint-favourite from 11/1 while Hedgehunter is 11/1 from 12/1.
McNALLY’S BIG CHANCE ON LITTLE HORSE
The injury which has ruled Ruby Walsh out of today’s Martell Cognac Grand National, has provided a fantastic opportunity for Bobby McNally, who now takes the ride on Exit To Wave.
The Paul Nicholls-trained French-bred gelding is petite, but McNally says: “He’s very small, but he’s tough, and I’m really looking forward to the
ride.”
McNally hails from Summerhill in Co. Meath, but currently lives near Nicholls’ Somerset yard. He said: “I’ve been staying at a hotel in Liverpool with Paul and Jeremy Young [Nicholls’ assistant trainer], but we had a quiet evening and I was in bed by 10 o’clock. Then Paul rang me and told me I was riding the horse because Ruby had broken his wrist. I feel sorry for Ruby,but for me it was a dream come true.”
McNally has been making the most of limited opportunities at this week’s Martell Cognac Grand National meeting, having achieved two seconds and a third.
He added: “I’ve ridden over the National fences once, when I was 17. It was at the autumn meeting, and I fell at Becher’s on a horse called Aly Daley.”
Exit To Wave goes by the nickname of Wayne among stable staff at Nicholls’ yard. He’s not the biggest horse in the yard, but he’s certainly one of the most popular.
SWAN FANCIES LE COUDRAY
Irish jumping legend Charlie Swan has not ruled out top weight Le Coudray of winning the 2004 Martell Grand National.
Swan who had eight races over the National fences and three times finishing in the top seven, said: "Even though he has top weight, I would not rule him out. He is a class horse but he will need some rain before the race to improve his chances."
Swan - who retired from the saddle on this day 12 months ago - ran the rule over the other Irish challengers who are bidding to give the Emerald Isle their fourth win in the race since 1999, pointed out: "It is a pity that our two big hopes Timbera and Rince Ri are both out. Monty's Pass has been round here before and it is very much horses for courses, Risk Accessor has his chances but I believe that Spot Thedifference could run a big race and is certainly each-way value."
Swan had been hoping to have a runner in the Martell Cognac Grand National this year but This Is Serious suffered a leg injury and had to be ruled out.
Swan added: "Everything is going well for me at the moment but I would love to have a horse in the Grand National and, hopefully, This Is Serious will be able to run next year."
STEWARDS HAVE PLENTY OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Five stewards will be scrutinising the action in today’s Martell Cognac Grand National, and no fewer than four have ridden over the famous spruce fences.
The odd one out is Peter Innes, but stewards’ chairman Joey Newton and Christopher Collins both rode winners at the meeting – in different years, but, ironically, on the same horse – while Richard Shepherd and Robert Waley-Cohen were among the many amateurs who have tried their luck.
Collins won the Martell Fox Hunters’ Chase on the Arthur Stephenson-trained Credit Call in 1972, but later sold the horse to Newton’s mother, Ursula.
Her son rode Credit Call to victory in the Fox Hunters’ in both 1975 and 1976.
Looking back on his experiences in the saddle, Newton said: “I had four rides over the National fences. Two on Credit Call, plus one each on Barleydale and Cantabville.
“Aintree has always played a very special part in my life and it means so much to so many people. The team at Aintree, including the ground staff, love coming here.
“They come back year after year from other courses like Carlisle, Bangor and Haydock. The place is infectious, and I’m top of its fan club.”
TYNEANDTHYNEAGAIN OUT OF NATIONAL
The Richard Guest-trained Tyneandthyneagain is a non runner in the Martell Cognac Grand National.
The nine-year-old has been taken out of the race because of the ground.
FIRST RACE RESULT
1.45pm MARTELL CORDON BLEU HANDICAP HURDLE
Class A , Listed Race, £45,000 Total Prize Fund. For 5yo+, 2m .5f. Minimim weight 10st. Penalties: after March 27, a winner of a hurdle 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £26,100; 2nd: £9,900; 3rd: :£4,950; 4th: £2,250; 5th: £1,125; 6th: £675
1) PUCK OUT (J P McManus) Christy Roche IRE 6-9-10 Mr Mark Walsh (7) 10/1
2) FUNDAMENTAL (D N Green) Jonjo O'Neill 5-10-01 Liam Cooper 4/1 Fav
3) JACK DAWSON (The Premier Cru) John Berry 7-10-00 Jim Culloty 25/1
4) GREENHOPE (Lynn & Giles Wilson, Martin Landau) Nicky Henderson 6-10-07 Mick Fitzgerald 11/1
5) IN CONTRAST (Tony Staple) Philip Hobbs 8-11-11 Richard Johnson
6) JABOUNE (Carol Skan) Alan King 7-10-08 Warren Marston
7) LIMERICK BOY (Favourites Racing) Venetia Williams 6-11-12 Tony Dobbin
8) DESERT AIR (Belinda Harvey) Martin Pipe tv5-10-02 Rodi Greene
9) NOWELL HOUSE (John Walsh) Mick Easterby 8-9-13 (1lb ow) Mr Tom Greenall (7)
10) SHAYADI (Ashley Carr) Brian Ellison t7-9-07 Steven Craine (7)
11) ANNO JUBILO (N O’Flaherty) Charlie Swan IRE 7-10-01 David Casey
12) ITALIAN COUNSEL (B V Ward) Luke Dace 7-9-07 Derek Laverty (7)
BD 6) PORTANT FELLA (Portant Fellas Syndicate) Joanna Morgan IRE 5-10-00 Paul Carberry
F LAST) DEMI BEAU (Hugh Villiers) Charlie Mann 6-10-09 Noel Fehily
F6) RED SUN (Bulls Head Racing Club) John Mackie t7-9-12 Lee Vickers (3)
PU BEF 3 OUT) IDAHO D'OX (The Donysius Partnership) Martin Pipe 8-10-04 Tony McCoy
PU BEF 3 OUT) KING SOLOMON (Seasons Holidays) Venetia Williams t5-10-00 Richard McGrath
PU AFT 3) MAN O'MYSTERY (Bjorn Nielsen) Paul Webber 7-11-00 Barry Geraghty
19 ran Non-Runner: Spectrometer, Bernadon
Breeder: G W Robinson Breeding: ch g Topanoora - Prosiac Star (IRE)
Distances: 4, 4, nk, 6, 13, 4, .5, 2, 2.5, 12, 24
Tote Win: £14.60 Places: £2.90; £1.80; £5.70; £3.50 Exacta: £51.90
Winning Trainer: CHRISTY ROCHE Based: Curragh View House, Kildare, County Kildare, Ireland Previous Occupation: Professional Flat jockey. Won 1984 Epsom Derby on Secreto. Cheltenham Festival Winners: (3) Coral Cup Hcap Hurdle (1999 Khayrawani), Gerrard Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Like-A-Butterfly), William Hill National Hunt Chase (2003 Youlneverwalkalone) Aintree Festival Wins: Barton and Guestier Top Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Joe Mac), Martell Noblige Hcap Hurdle (1999 Khayrawani), Martell Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle (2004 Puck Out)
Winning Jockey: Mark P Walsh Age: 18 First Winner: Shrug (Peggy Barry-Walsh Memorial Handicap Hurdle, Punchestown, September 29, 2002) Aintree Festival Wins: Martell Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle (2004 Puck Out)
SECOND RACE RESULT
2.20pm MARTELL COGNAC MAGHULL NOVICES’ CHASE
Class A , Grade One, £100,000 Total Prize Fund. For 5yo+, 2m. Weights: 5yo 11st 1lb; 6yo+ 11st 4lb. Allowances: mares 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £58,000; 2nd: £22,000; 3rd: :£11,000; 4th: £5,000; 5th: £2,500; 6th: £1,500
1) WELL CHIEF (David Johnson) Martin Pipe 5-11-01 Tony McCoy 15/8 Fav
2) THISTHATANDTOTHER (Graham Roach) Paul Nicholls 8-11-04 Joe Tizzard 2/1
3) MISTER MCGOLDRICK (Richard Longley) Sue Smith 7-11-04 Dominic Elsworth 12/1
4) BONUS BRIDGE (Lady Knutsford) Henry Daly 9-11-04 Mark Bradburne
5) EMPERORS GUEST (Mrs Paul Duffin) Paddy Mullins IRE 6-11-04 Robbie Power
6) PALUA (Mark Barrett & Partners) Emma Lavelle 7-11-04 Jimmy McCarthy
7) VENN OTTERY (Oliver Carter) Paul Nicholls t9-11-04 Timmy Murphy
8) NO SHENANIGANS (Bridget Hanbury) Nicky Henderson 7-11-04 Mick Fitzgerald
9) KALCA MOME (Miss I D Du Pre) Philip Hobbs 6-11-04 Richard Johnson
PU) NEV BROWN (Geoffrey & Donna Keeys) Nigel Twiston-Davies 8-11-04 Carl Llewellyn
10 ran
Breeder: Gestut Norina Breeding: ch g Night Shift (USA) - Wellesiena (GER)
Distances: 2.5, 5, 7, 1.5, hd, 13, 17, .5
Tote Win: £3.00 Places: £1.60; £1.50; £2.90 Exacta: £7.00
Winning trainer: MARTIN CHARLES PIPE Date of birth: 29/5/45 Date of first licence: 1977 Previous occupation: Amateur rider, shop manager for father, bookmaker David Pipe. Aintree Festival wins: Martell Top Novices’ Hurdle (1991 Granville Again, 1996 Tragic Hero, 1998 Fataliste), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (1992 Cyphrate, 2004 Well Chief), Martell Cognac Cup Chase (1991 Aquilifer, 2004 Tiutchev), Martell Noblige H’cap Hurdle (1990 Sayparee, 1991 Trefelyn Cone, 1997 Cadougold), Martell Mildway Novices’ Chase (1995 Banjo, 1997 Cyborgo), Martell Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (1993 Lemon’s Mill, 1994 Cyborgo, 1996 Silver Shred, 2002 Classified), Martell Topham Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Northern Starlight), Martell Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), Martell Aintree Hurdle (1998 Pridwell, 2002 Ilnamar), Martell XO 4-Y-O Hurdle (1999 Hors La Loi III), Martell Novices’ Hcap Chase (1999 Royal Predica), Martell Cognac Handicap Hurdle (2001 and 2003 Carlovent), Martell Cognac Red Rum Handicap Chase (2003 Golden Alpha), Martell Cognac Grand Nationaal (1994 Miinnehoma), Cheltenham Festival wins: (32) JCB Triumph Hurdle (1981 Baron Blakeney, 1995 Kissair), Bonusprint Stayers' Hurdle (1994 Balasani, 1996 Cyborgo), Smurfit Champion Hurdle (1997 Make A Stand, 1993 Granville Again), Coral Eurobet Cup (2002 Ilnamar, 1997 Big Strand, 1993 Olympian), Royal & SunAlliance Chase (1991 Rolling Ball, 1992 Miinnehoma), Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Chase (1991 Omerta, 2003 Royal Predica, 2004 Maximize), Royal & SunAlliance Hurdle (1989 Sayfar's Lad, 1990 Regal Ambition), Gerrard Supreme Hurdle (1989 Sondrio, 1999 Hors La Loi III), Cathcart (1991 Chatam, 1996 Challenger Du Luc, 1998 Cyfor Malta, 2002 Royal Auclair), Irish Independent Arkle (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), Mildmay of Flete (1997 Terao, 1999 Majadou, 2000 Dark Stranger, 2002 Blowing Wind), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (1998 Blowing Wind), Pertemps Final (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2003 Liberman) Other major wins: Welsh National (1993 Riverside Boy, 1992 Run For Free, 1991 Carvill's Hill, 1988 & 1989 Bonanza Boy), Scottish Grand National (1993 Run For Free), Paddy Power Gold Cup (1987 Beau Ranger, 1996 Challenger Du Luc, 1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Lady Cricket, 2001 Shooting Light, 2002 Cyfor Malta), Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (1991 Chatam, 1988 Strands Of Gold), Whitbread Gold Cup (1995 Cache Fleur), Tote Gold Trophy (1997 Make A Stand), Tripleprint Gold Cup (1993 Fragrant Dawn, 1998 Northern Starlight), Long Walk Hurdle (1992 Vagog, 2002 Deano’s Beeno), cantorsport.co.uk Silver Cup (2001 Shooting Light, 2003 Horus), Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase (2004 Our Vic) Wins (1974/75-2002/03): 1, 5, 5, 2, 6, 12, 14, 20 23, 32, 51, 79, 106, 129, 208, 224, 230, 224, 194, 126, 137, 176, 212, 208, 187, 243, 168, 235, 190 Number of horses in training (1984-2003): 28, 38, 65, 60, 62, 108, 107, 131, 120, 81, 122, 66, 91, 94, 106, 136, 146, 103, 140, 165 Wins This Season: 156
Winning Jockey: Anthony Peter McCoy Date of Birth: 04/05/74 First Winner: Thurles, 26/03/92 (First winner in Britain: 07/09/94, Exeter, Chickabiddy) Apprenticeship: Four years with Jim Bolger.Cheltenham Festival Wins: (15) GRAND ANNUAL CHASE (1996 Kibreet, 1998 Edredon Bleu), IRISH INDEPENDENT ARKLE CHASE (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), SMURFIT CHAMPION HURDLE (1997 Make A Stand), TOTE GOLD CUP (1997 Mr Mulligan), CATHCART CHASE (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2002 Royal Auclair) Pertemps Final (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), VINCENT O’BRIEN COUNTY HURDLE (1998 Blowing Wind), GERRARD SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE (1999 Hors La Loi III), THE MILDMAY OF FLETE CHALLENGE CUP HCAP CHASE (1999 Majadou), QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE (2000 Edredon Bleu), WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER (2003 Liberman) Aintree Festival Wins: MUMM MELLING CHASE (Viking Flagship 1996), GLENLIVET ANNIVERSARY HURDLE (Zabadi 1996, Hors La Loi III 1999), BARTON & GUESTIER NOVICES’ HURDLE (1998 Fataliste), JOHN HUGHES TROPHY CHASE (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Northern Starlight), MUMM MILDMAY NOVICES’ CHASE (1998 Boss Doyle), BELLE EPOQUE SEFTON NOVICES’ HURDLE (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), MARTELL AINTREE HURDLE (1998 Pridwell), MARTELL COGNAC HANDICAP HURDLE (1996 Top Spin, 2003 Carlovent), CHIVAS REGAL NOVICES’ HCAP CHASE (1999 Royal Predica), MARTELL COGNAC RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE (2003 Golden Alpha), MARTELL COGNAC CUP CHASE (2004 Tiutchev), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (2004 Well Chief) Other major wins: KING GEORGE VI CHASE (2002 Best Mate), SCOTTISH GRAND NATIONAL (1997 Belmont King), REHEARSAL CHASE (1996 Belmont King), PADDY POWER GOLD CUP (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Lady Cricket, 2001Shooting Light), PILLAR PROPERTY CHASE (1999 Cyfor Malta), TRIPLEPRINT GOLD CUP CHASE (1998 Northern Starlight), EXTRAMAN HENRY VIII NOVICES’ CHASE (1998 Dines), MILDMAY & CAZALET HCAP CHASE (1999 Eudipe), GROSVENOR CASINOS LONG DISTANCE HURDLE (1999 Galant Moss), SCILLY ISLES NOVICES’ CHASE (2000 Upgrade), FIRST NATIONAL GOLD CUP H’CAP CHASE (2000 Upgrade), LONG WALK HURDLE (2002 Deano’s Beeno) Winners 1994/5-2002/03:74,175, 189,253,186,245,191, 289, 257 Wins this season: 195
THIRD RACE RESULT
2.55pm MARTELL COGNAC AINTREE HURDLE
Class A , Grade One, £150,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4yo+, 2m 4f. Weights: 4yo 11st;56yo+ 11st 7lb. Allowances: fillies & mares 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £87,000; 2nd: £33,000; 3rd: :£16,500; 4th: £7,500; 5th: £3,750; 6th: £2,250
1) RHINESTONE COWBOY (Sue Magnier) Jonjo O'Neill 8-11-07 Mr J P Magnier 5/2 JF
2) ROOSTER BOOSTER (Terry Warner) Philip Hobbs 10-11-07 Richard Johnson 5/2JF
3) WESTENDER (Matt Archer & Jean Broadhurst) Martin Pipe b8-11-07 Tony McCoy 25/1
4) INTERSKY FALCON (Interskyracing.com & Jacqui O’Neill) Jonjo O'Neill tb7-11-07 Liam Cooper
5) STARZAAN (Ben Arbib) Hughie Morrison 5-11-07 Timmy Murphy
6) MONKERHOSTIN (Martin St Quinton) Philip Hobbs 7-11-07 Carl Llewellyn
7) FOREMAN (J P McManus) Thierry Doumen FR b6-11-07 Thierry Doumen
8) QUAZAR (David Carr) Jonjo O'Neill tb6-11-07 Tony Dobbin
9) SLEEP BAL (Mrs M O Bryant) Nicky Henderson 5-11-07 Mick Fitzgerald
10) THE FRENCH FURZE (Jim Ennis) Nicky Richards 10-11-07 Graham Lee
11) SPORAZENE (Ged Mason & David Jackson) Paul Nicholls 5-11-07 Joe Tizzard
11 ran
Breeder: Mrs Frances Whelan Breeding: b g Be My Native (USA) - Monumental Gesture
Distances: .75, .5, .5, 2.5, 3.5, 7, .5, .5, 1.25, 1.75
Tote Win: £3.60 Places: £1.70; 31.70; £4.20 Exacta: £8.30
Winning trainer: JONJO O’NEILL Born: April 13, 1952 Based: Jackdaws Castle, Gloucestershire Career: former National Hunt jockey Cheltenham Festival wins: (10) Pertemps Final (1991 Danny Connors, 2003 Inching Closer, 2004 Creon); National Hunt Chase (1995 Front Line, 2002 Rith Dubh, 2003 Sudden Shock, 2004 Native Emperor); Vincent O’Brien County H’cap Hurdle (2000 Master Tern), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2003 Spectroscope), bonusprint.com Stayers’ Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift) Aintree Festival wins: Martell Cognac V.S. Hcap Chase (2000 Radiation, 2002 Carbury Cross, 2003 Master Tern), Martell Handicap Hurdle (2002 Sudden Shock); Martell XO Anniversary 4YO Hurdle (2002 Quazar), Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), Martell Cognac Topham Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Martell Cognac Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Iris’s Gift), Martell Cognac Champion Standard National Hunt Flat Race (2003 Classic Native), Martell Cognac Laurel Pub Company Liverpool Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), Martell Aintree Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy) Horses in Training (1996-2003): 53; 59; 59; 78; 78, 75, 98, 90 Number of Winners (1995/96--2002/03): 18; 17; 32; 38; 44; 58; 113; 114 Other Big Race Wins: Tripleprint Gold Cup (1999 Legal Right), Tote Silver Cup (2000 Legal Right), Tote Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle (2002 Native Emperor), Kingwell Hurdle (2003 Rhinestone Cowboy), Challow Hurdle (2002 Coolnagorna), Reynoldstown Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Welsh National (2002 Mini Sensation), Tote Becher Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Edward Hanmer Chase (2003 Keen Leader) Wins this season: 98
Winning Jockey: John Paul (J P) Magnier Status: amateur jockey who is son of John and Sue Magnier. His father is the boss of Coolmore Stud in Ireland, while his mother owns Coral Cup hope Rhinestone Cowboy and Royal & SunAlliance Hurdle prospect Collier County Big Race Victories: Betfair Open Bumper (2002 Rhinestone Cowboy); Tote Placepot Handicap Hurdle (2003 Rhinestone Cowboy); Agfa Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy) Aintree Festival wins: Martell Aintree Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy
FIFTH RACE RESULT
4.35pm MARTELL COGNAC NOVICES’ HANDICAP CHASE (AMATEUR RIDERS)
Class B, £30,000 Added. For 5yo+, 2m 4f. Minimum weight 10st. Penalties: after March 27, a winner of a chase 6lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £19,256; 2nd: £7,034; 3rd: :£3,652; 4th: £1,660; 5th: £830; 6th: £498
1) KELTIC BARD (M Rowland, M Collins & P Cox) Charlie Mann 7-11-01 Mr David Dunsdon 12/1
2) THE BANDIT (Richard Lavelle) Emma Lavelle 10-09 Mr Robert Widger 16/1
3) POLAR RED (Lady Clarke) Martin Pipe 7-11-04 Mr Tom Malone (5) 7/1
4) OUR ARMAGEDDON (Leslie John Garrett) Richard Guest 7-11-09 Mr Dale Jewett (3) 9/4 Fav
5) MOUNSEY CASTLE (Alan Peterson) Philip Hobbs 7-10-00 Mr Robert Stephens
6) BENRAJAH (Brian Murfin) Martin Todhunter 7-9-09 Mr Keith Mercer (5)
7) CYANARA (Steven Hanney) Dr Philip Pritchard 8-10-00 Dr Philip Pritchard
8) JARDIN DE BEAULIEU (Mr & Mrs John Poynton) Ian Williams b7-10-05 Mr Alan Crowe
DNF) RODBER (K J Fehily) Lucy Normile 8-10-06 Mr R Loughran
DNF) HEHASALIFE (Norton House Racing) Heather Dalton 7-10-00 (3lb ow) Mr Tom Greenall (3)
DNF) PHARPOST (Direct Sales UK Ltd) Venetia Williams b1 9-9-08 (1lb ow) Mr D Jacob (7)
DNF) BLACK FROST (Trevor Hemmings) Sue Smith 8-10-08 Mr Jamie Codd
DNF) TALBOT LAD (M J Talbot) Steve Brookshaw t8-10-00 Mr Niall Madden
DNF) LE DUC (Judy Stewart) Paul Nicholls 5-11-00 Mr Nick Williams (3)
14 ran Non-Runners: Mercato, Jasmin Guchois
Breeder:Michael Broughton Breeding: b g Emperor Jones (USA) - Broughton Singer (IRE)
Distances: 5, 4, 2.5, 30, 19, dist, 5
Tote Win: £18.50 Places: £4.20; £2.90; £3.20 Exacta: £124.50
Winning Trainer: CHARLIE MANN Born: April 3, 1958 Based: Whitcoombe House Stables, Upper Lambourn, Hungerford, Berkshire Big Race Wins: Charisma Gold Cup (1995, General Rusty), Grand Pardubice (1995, Its A Snip), Mitsubishi Shogun Game Spirit Chase (1999 Celibate), BMW Chase (1999, Celibate) Horses in Training (1994-2003): 10; 25; 32; 34; 48; 44; 50; 64; 72; 63 Number of Winners (1993/94-2002/03): 15; 16; 17; 24; 25; 37; 20; 43; 35; 27
Winning Jockey: David Henry Dunsdon Born: July 11, 1982 Based: with Nick Gifford at Findon Background: four-time champion jumps jockey Josh Gifford is his uncle. Rode for Geoff Lewis as an amateur. Champion point-to-point rider in 00/01 season, which was curtailed by foot and mouth disease. Wins in 2001-2002 to 2002/3: 3; 2 Big Race Victories: Swedish Grand National (2001 Silent Keys)
SIXTH RACE RESULT
5.10pm MARTELL COGNAC CHAMPION STANDARD NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE
Class B, £30,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4-6yo which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing except NH Flat taces run in GB/IRE; horses are not to have run in more than four NH Flat races, or five such races if the fifth was the 2004 Weatherbys Champion Bumper at Cheltenham, 2m 1f. Weights: 4yo 10st 12lb; 5 & 6yo 11st 4lb. Penalties: a winner of a Grade 1 NH Flat race 4lb. Allowances: fillies & mares 7lb.Penalty Values: 1st: £17,400; 2nd: £6,600; 3rd: :£3,300; 4th: £1,500; 5th: £750; 6th: £450
1) DIAMOND SAL (Richard Haggas) Mary Reveley 6-10-06 Fergus King (5) 33/1
2) YOUNG SCOTTON (The I B & D F Partnership) Kevin Ryan 4-10-07 Mr Niall Madden (5) 12/1
3) REBEL RHYTHM (The Fees R US Syndicate) Sue Smith 5-10-13 Gino Carenza (5) 13/8 Fav
4) TIGERS LAIR (Gay Smith) Jonjo O'Neill 5-11-00 Mr Tom Greenall (3)
5) HISTORIC PLACE (Georgina Bishop) Toby Balding 4-10-07 Tom Best (5)
6) QUEEN SORAYA (Mrs Oliver Fox-Pitt) Henrietta Knight 5-10-06 Robert Biddlecombe (5)
7) FIRST HARMONY (Mel Brittain) Mel Brittain 5-10-04 Steven Craine (7)
8) WITHOUT A DOUBT (Malcolm Denmark) Mark Pitman 5-11-01 James Davies (3)
9) ENHANCER (Gallagher Equine Ltd) Linda Jewell 6-10-11 Ciaran Eddery (7)
10) TEN PRESSED MEN (Valda Burke) Jonjo O'Neill 4-10-12 Mr Alan Crowe
11) FLYING FALCON (Peter Diamond) Venetia Williams 5-10-08 Mr Nick Williams (7)
12) RENDOVA (J C, J R & S R Hitchins) Andrew Balding 5-10-11 Mr Tom Malone (7)
13) ALL THINGS EQUAL (John Hales) Simon Sherwood 5-10-13 Mr Richard Burton (5)
14) RATHOWEN (Alistair Charlton) Alistair Charlton 5-10-11 Liam Berridge (7)
15) SCAMP (John Webb) Steve Gollings 5-10-11 Bobby McNally
PU) CANDELLO (Erik Thorbek) Nicky Henderson 6-10-08 Andrew Tinkler (3)
16 ran Non-Runners: Thyne For Intersky, Golden Odyssey
Breeder: Goldford Stud Breeding: b m Bob Back (USA) - Fortune’s Girl
Distances: .5, 2, 2.5, 1.25, .5, 1.75, nk, 20, 1.5, 10, .5, 4, 11, 21
Tote Win: £37.70 Places: £6.60; £4.00; £1.80 Exacta: £759.30
Winning trainer: MARY REVELEY Born: Lingdale, September 22 1940 Based: Groundhill Farm, Lingdale, Saltburn, Cleveland Date of first licence: July 1982 Aintree Festival Wins: Barton & Guestier Novices’ Hdle (1995 Sweet Mignonette), Mumm Mildway Novices’ Chase (1993 Cab On Target), Belle Epoque Sefton Novices’ (1995 Morgan’s Harbour), Martell Champion Bumper (2004 Diamond Sal) Other major wins: Great Yorkshire Chase (1991 Dalkey Sound, 1994 Carbisdale), Wensleydale Hurdle (1991 Swift Sword), Newbury Long Distance Hurdle (1991 Cab On Target), Spa Hurdle (1991 Cab On Target), Mildmay Novices' Chase (1993 Cab On Target), Future Champions Novices' Chase (1993 Cab On Target), Philip Cornes Saddle of Gold Novices' Hurdle (1993 Brackenfield), Tote West Yorkshire Hurdle (1998 Marello), Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (1998 Random Harvest) Number of wins (1988/9-2002/03): 23, 41, 58, 99, 90, 103, 100, 86, 87, 89, 104, 105, 62, 90, 58 Number of horses in training (1992-2003): 103, 135, 142, 145, 145, 140, 134, 139, 125, 123, 127, 106
Winning Jockey: Fergus King Based: c/o Mary Reveley, Groundhill Farm, Lingdale, Saltburn, Cleveland Background: previously worked for Aidan O’Brien and Nicky Richards Number of Wins (2001-2002 to 2002/03): 3; 19 First Winner: Toby (Clerical Medical Amateur Riders’ Handicap Hurdle, Perth, September 22, 1999) Big Race Wins: Martell Champion Bumper (2004 Diamond Sal)
LEADING TRAINERS AT THE END OF DAY THREE FOR THE DAILY TELEGRAPH TROPHY
1st 2nd 3rd
Martin Pipe* 2 1 3
Jonjo O’Neill 2 2 -
Paul Nicholls 1 3 3
Nicky Henderson 1 1 1
Sue Smith 1 - 2
Toby Balding 1 - -
Steve Brookshaw 1 - -
Brian Ellison 1 - -
Richard Ford 1 - -
Steve Gollings 1 - -
Jessica Harrington IRE 1 - -
Charlie Mann 1 - -
Ginger McCain 1 - -
John Queally IRE 1 - -
Mary Reveley 1 - -
Christy Roche IRE 1 - -
Paul Webber 1 - -
Venetia Williams 1 - -
Philip Hobbs - 4 1
Howard Johnson - 1 1
Kim Bailey - 1 -
Francois Doumen FR - 1 -
David Easterby - 1 -
Henrietta Knight - 1 -
Emma Lavelle - 1 -
Mouse Morris IRE - 1 -
Nicky Richards - 1 -
Kevin Ryan - 1 -
Nigel Twiston-Davies - - 2
John Berry - - 1
Henry Daly - - 1
Paul Keane - - 1
Arthur Moore IRE - - 1
Kevin O’Donnell IRE - - 1
Richard Price - - 1
Charlie Swan IRE - - 1
* Martin Pipe wins the Daily Telegraph Trophy. He and Jonjo O’Neill trained the same number of winners, but O’Neill earned less prize money.
LEADING JOCKEYS AT THE END OF THE MEETING FOR THE DAILY TELEGRAPH TROPHY
1st 2nd 3rd
Graham Lee 2 1 1
Tony McCoy 2 1 1
Barry Geraghty 2 - -
Jim Culloty 1 1 2
Joe Tizzard 1 1 -
Ruby Walsh 1 - 2
Paul Carberry 1 - 1
Tom Best 1 - -
Tom Doyle 1 - -
Mr David Dunsdon 1 - -
Mrs Carrie Ford 1 - -
Fergus King 1 - -
Mr J P Magnier 1 - -
Richard McGrath 1 - -
Timmy Murphy 1 - -
Robert Thornton 1 - -
Mr Mark Walsh 1 - -
Richard Johnson - 4 1
Bobby McNally - 2 1
Liam Cooper - 2 -
Mick Fitzgerald - 1 1
David Casey - 1 -
Tony Dobbin - 1 -
Thierry Doumen - 1 -
Mr Tom Greenall - 1 -
Mr Niall Madden - 1 -
J P McNamara - 1 -
Mr Robert Widger - 1 -
Mark Bradburne - - 2
Carl Llewellyn - - 2
Gino Carenza - - 1
Dominic Elsworth - - 1
Mr James Jenkins - - 1
Mr Tom Malone - - 1
Jimmy McCarthy - - 1
Conor O’Dwyer - - 1
Graham Lee wins by virtue of having ridden two fourth-placed horse whereas McCoy did not finish fourth in any race
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