Thursday, April 3, 2008

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING
RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE
FIRST DAY, THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 2008 JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL DECLARED RUNNERS

Form Horse Age/Weight Owner Trainer Jockey
1) 2/500-P502 HEDGEHUNTER (IRE) 12-11-12 Trevor Hemmings Willie Mullins IRE Ruby Walsh
2) P-2625142 HI CLOY (IRE) 11-11-12 Susan McCloy Michael Hourigan IRE Tom Doyle
3) U-135P16 KNOWHERE (IRE) 10 -11-11 Raymond Mould Nigel Twiston-Davies Joe Tizzard
4) 5/122-416 MR POINTMENT (IRE) 9-11-11 Stockton Heath Racing Paul Nicholls Sam Thomas
5) 210P-P123 TURKO (FR) 6-11-10 The Stewart Family Paul Nicholls Richard Johnson
6) 03-4425 MADISON DU BERLAIS (FR) 7-11-09 Roger Stanley & Yvonne Reynolds David Pipe Tom Scudamore
7) 11F-52U4 SIMON 9-11-07 Mercy Rimell John Spearing Dominic Elsworth
8) 1120-1P OPERA MUNDI (FR) 6-11-06 Sir Robert Ogden Paul Nicholls Liam Heard
9) r416F5PP IRON MAN (FR) 7-11-05 Roddy Owen & Paul Fullagar Peter Bowen Christian Williams
10) 6P-2412103 FUNDAMENTALIST (IRE)10-11-04 Colin Cornes Nigel Twiston-Davies Paddy Brennan
11)43011-303 BUTLER'S CABIN (FR) 8-11-03 J P McManus Jonjo O'Neill Tony McCoy
12) F53-62S5 SLIM PICKINGS (IRE) 9-11-03 Doubtful Five Syndicate Tom Taaffe IRE Barry Geraghty
13) 4P3F6514 CHELSEA HARBOUR (IRE) 8-11-02 Frances Duffin Tom Mullins IRE Davy Russell
14) 400-01105 VODKA BLEU (FR) 9-11-02 David Johnson David Pipe Paul Moloney
15) 00-63003 L'AMI (FR) 9-11-01 J P McManus Francois Doumen FR Mick Fitzgerald
16) 124-F1133 SNOWY MORNING (IRE) 8-11-01 Quayside Syndicate Willie Mullins IRE David Casey
17) P/420F-2P BEWLEYS BERRY (IRE) 10-11-00 Andrea & Graham Wylie Howard Johnson Denis O’Regan
18) 2P0450-0P CONTRABAND 10-11-00 Fergus Wilson Paul Murphy Keith Mercer
19) 410612-00 MCKELVEY (IRE) 9-11-00 Noel Elliott Peter Bowen Tom O’Brien
20) P-20030 JOAACI (IRE) 8-10-13 David Johnson David Pipe Johnny Farrelly
21) 2-0000403 POINT BARROW (IRE) 10-10-13 Clune Hughes,Helen O’Dwyer & John Foley Patrick Hughes IRE Tony Dobbin
22) PP2-P014 D'ARGENT (IRE) 11-10-12 Nigel Bunter Alan King Robert Thornton
23) 30-434P2 NO FULL (FR) 7-10-12 Mrs P Doyle Eoin Doyle IRE Shay Barry
24) 3-F106P0 BAILY BREEZE (IRE) 9-10-11 Adam Scott Mouse Morris IRE Paddy Flood
25) 522-360P BOB HALL (IRE) 7-10-11 J P McManus Jonjo O'Neil Noel Fehily
26) 201U-5111 CLOUDY LANE 8-10-11 Trevor Hemmings Donald McCain Jnr Jason Maguire
27) U22P-2221 KING JOHNS CASTLE (IRE) 9-10-11 J P McManus Arthur Moore IRE Paul Carberry
28) 422434-P36 MON MOME (FR) 8-10-11 Vida Bingham Venetia Williams Aidan Coleman
29) 026-2P0 CORNISH SETT (IRE) 9-10-10 Peter Hart Paul Nicholls Mr Nick Scholfield
30) PP-104329 NAUNTON BROOK 9-10-10 David Langdon Nigel Twiston-Davies David England
31) 554-50626 TUMBLING DICE (IRE) 9-10-10 Lucy Donegan Tom Taaffe IRE Tom Ryan
32) FP/24/0-14 BACKBEAT (IRE) 11-10-09 Andrea & Graham Wylie Howard Johnson Wilson Renwick
33) 6/4P/-0P21 COMPLY OR DIE (IRE) 9-10-09 David Johnson David Pipe Timmy Murphy
34) UU-20U505 IDLE TALK (IRE) 9-10-09 Trevor Hemmings Donald McCain Jnr Brian Harding
35) 2P-4300F2 KELAMI (FR) 10-10-09 Halewood International Ltd Francois Doumen FR Barry Keniry
36) 11305-540 MILAN DEUX MILLE (FR) 6-10-09 Fergus & Judith Wilson David Pipe Tom Malone
37) 3PF-013P7 NADOVER (FR) 7-10-09 George Storey Charlie Mann Robbie Power
38) 0-564420 BLACK APALACHI (IRE) 9-10-08 Gerard Burke Dessie Hughes IRE Andrew McNamara
39) 1P6/04-2B PHILSON RUN (IRE) 12-10-08 Gale Force One Nick Williams Daryl Jacob
40) 0F251P-062 DUN DOIRE (IRE) 9-10-07 Dunderry Racing Syndicate Tony Martin IRE Richard McGrath

40 declared runners

Reserve 1 62-166P0P ARDAGHEY (IRE) 9-10-07 D & S Goodman Nigel Twiston-Davies

Reserve 2 06/001P-U0 JOES EDGE (IRE) 11-10-07 Chemipetro Limited Ferdy Murphy

Reserve 3 43-630301 IN THE HIGH GRASS (IRE) 7-10-06 Mrs M Hally Tom Taaffe IRE

Reserve 4 312/452-6 OSSMOSES (IRE) 11-10-06 Don Forster Don Forster

Ollie Magern & Cornish Rebel were taken out this morning



LATEST BETTING FROM totesport, official betting partner of the John Smith's Grand National meeting.

JOHN SMITH'S GRAND NATIONAL
4½ MILES (H'CAP CHASE), AINTREE, SATURDAY 4.15pm, LIVE ON BBC.

5 CLOUDY LANE
9 SLIM PICKINGS
10 COMPLY OR DIE
12 BEWLEYS BERRY
12 SIMON
14 CHELSEA HARBOUR
16 BUTLER'S CABIN
20 KING JOHNS CASTLE
20 McKELVEY
22 MR POINTMENT
22 POINT BARROW
25 D'ARGENT
25 DUN DOIRE
25 HEDGEHUNTER
25 MON MOME
25 PHILSON RUN
25 SNOWY MORNING
33 L'AMI
33 TURKO
40 BLACK APALACHI
40 JOAACI
40 KELAMI
50 bar
E/W 1/4 THE ODDS A PLACE 1-2-3-4.

ABOVE RACE: - NON RUNNER - NO BET
IN THE EVENT OF ANY NR'S TATTERSALLS RULE 4(C) WILL APPLY.

OSANA SET TO GO ONE BETTER IN AINTREE'S FEATURE HURDLE

Osana, who came close to landing trainer David Pipe a first Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle at last month's Cheltenham Festival, is among 11 entries for Saturday's feature hurdle race at Aintree.

The six-year-old is likely to start favourite for the Grade One Scottish & Newcastle Pub Enterprises Aintree Hurdle (2.50pm) over two and a half miles that will see the reappearance of previous dual winner Al Eile.

Only Katchit proved too good for Osana in the battle from the final flight at Cheltenham, but the Tom Scudamore-ridden runner-up was beaten just one length and he was five lengths clear of third-placed Punjabi. On his previous outing at Cheltenham in December, Osana had beaten Katchit by eight lengths.

Key rivals to Osana in Saturday's £160,000 showdown include a number of horses who competed at the Cheltenham Festival, including Straw Bear and Afsoun, who were fifth and seventh in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle.

My Way De Solzen, a double Festival winner, and Lough Derg tackled the Ladbrokes World Hurdle, and they now step down in trip in a bid to get back to winning ways, while Chomba Womba finished third in the David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle. With Tom Scudamore on Osana and Timmy Murphy renewing acquaintance with Al Eile, Christian Williams is booked for Lough Derg Pipe who is running today in the opening race of the meeting - the John Smith's Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle - and he may run again to try and gain more points in his quest for the Order Of Merit title.

Al Eile was last seen in action at Dundalk's all-weather track in late February when he was unplaced in a Flat race, but he was third in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle (when Lounaos, another challenger on Saturday, was fourth) and won the Grade One December Festival Hurdle at Leopardstown during the Christmas meeting. He was successful in both 2005 and 2007 in the Scottish & Newcastle Pub Enterprises Aintree Hurdle.Another Irish challenger, Kalderon, was third in that Dundalk contest, and last week won a match over hurdles at Fairyhouse.

The field for the Scottish & Newcastle Pub Enterprises Aintree Hurdle is completed by the Paul Nicholls-trained Elusive Dream, who was fourth to Lough Derg at Fontwell and runs in today's Citroen C5 Mersey Novices' Hurdle, and Mephisto from Howard Johnson's County Durham yard.

GOING LATEST


Following a minimal amount of rainfall overnight (0.2mm), the going on all three courses is unchanged.

The Mildmay and Hurdle courses: Good

The Grand National course: Good to Soft, Good in places


Andrew Tulloch, Aintree’s clerk of the course, said at 10.30am this morning: “We are expecting a cloudy day, with a few sunnier spells. The strong probability is that it will be dry, but if we do have any rain it will only be a smattering and very unlikely to have any effect on the ground.”

Tulloch added: “After racing today, we will review whether selective watering is necessary to maintain the good ground.”

For Friday, all the bends will be moved on to fresher ground and the hurdles straight will be moved three yards.

KICKS FOR THE MONEY

Inglis Drever may be the darling of the Cheltenham Festival, but Howard Johnson’s stable star, who has won only once from four outings at Aintree, is still at odds against (6/5 with totesport) for the opening race of the John Smith’s Grand National meeting and totesport punters are latching on to a young pretender from the all-conquering Paul Nicholls’ stable.

Kicks For Free ran on well to finish second to Naiad Du Misselot in the 2m 5f Coral Cup at Cheltenham and the belief that the extra three and a half furlongs of the John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle will suit the seven-year-old has seen totesport bring the Nicholls’ horse in from 6/1 to 5/1.

Francois Doumen, who has two horses entered in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National, has Millenium Royal lined up in the opener. Though Doumen has not seen the heavens open, as he wished, his horse has nevertheless also been supported with totesport, now at 8/1 from 10/1. Millenium Royal receives a useful eight pounds from the favourite.

In the John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle, Binocular, who travelled so well for such a long way in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, has been supported against the Triumph Hurdle winner Celestial Halo, and is now down to 13/8 (from 7/4) with totesport.

For the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Chase (4.20pm), the market has been lively. John Quinn, whose Blythe Knight won the John Smith’s Imagine Appeal Top Novices’ Hurdle last year, is always a trainer worth watching. His Leslingtaylor has been backed with totesport and is now at 13/2 from 8/1.

In the same race there’s been some interest for Jonathan Gask-trained Desert Quest. It was Desert Quest who provided Gask with his first National Hunt winner when he beat City Affair in a two-mile novice chase at Ludlow last month. The horse has been backed with totesport to 14/1 (from 20/1) to follow up.

THEY CAN’T KEEP AWAYFROM KAUTO
Defeat at the Cheltenham Festival has done little to diminish the status of the Paul Nicholls high-flyer Kauto Star. William Hill describe the totesport Bowl Chase (2.35pm) as “a one-horse book”, with Kauto Star trading solidly at 4/6. As Kate Miller of Hills said: “A lot of punters see it as a 4/6 shot that should be 2/1 on or even 3/1 on.”

The busiest betting races of the day are proving not to be the star-studded early races, but the John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase (3:45pm) and the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase (4:20pm).

In the John Smith Fox Hunters’ Chase, Scots Grey, who took last year’s race with Richard Burton in the saddle, has been described by Paddy Power as “friendless” for this year’s staging. Available at 8/1 earlier, it is now 12/1 and drifting. Paddy Power, Hills and Boylesports all report solid support for Thisthatandtother, the mount of the 18-year-old Nick Scholfield, who is now 100/30 favourite from 4/1.

The Paul Jones-trained Christy Beamish is showing as the one to take on the favourite. Christy Beamish was second in the John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase behind Katarino two years ago. Though he fell at the Cheltenham Festival last month, his form before that makes him very interesting and Cashmans have brought him down to 7/1 from 10/7, Hills have him at the same odds and Paddy Power are taking no risks with the horse at 13/2.

In the John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase, Cashmans are refunding stakes on horses that fall, are brought down or unseat. Last year, that would have included the 4/1 favourite Ned Kelly.

In the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase, Leslingtaylor has got friends everywhere, with VCBet, Boylesports, Hills offering 7/1, from as long as 10/1 earlier today. Hills, who have also seen the Howard Johnson front-runner Lennon supported at 13/2, rate the 4:20 as their busiest race of the day. Boylesports have Lennon at a minuscule 5/1.

Magic Sky (4:20pm), having been given the thumbs up by Pricewise at an extravagant 40/1, has been supported with VCBet and is now on offer at 20/1.

O’REGAN HOPEFUL OF A BIG RUN FROM BEWLEYS

DOBBIN EXCITED ABOUT SPARE RIDE

Denis O’Regan, who will have his second mount in the John Smith’s Grand National on Saturday, is hopeful of a big run in the most famous race on Saturday.

He will get the leg up from trainer Howard Johnson on Bewleys Berry, whom he partnered to finish second in the totesport.com Becher Chase at Aintree in November. That was the second time the gelding had finished runner-up in that contest, while he was a faller at Becher’s Brook on the second circuit in last year’s John Smith’s Grand National.

“He should run a very big race but we’d be hoping that the ground doesn’t dry out too much. He had two good runs in the last two Becher Chases, so he should handle the course no problem. I’ve schooled him at home over Aintree-type fences and he jumped well yesterday morning. He’s in good shape and I’m looking forward to it.

“He has a good racing weight compared to some of them. There’s nothing on 10st who will be going off flat out, so it’ll be a really good, competitive handicap this year. There will be a few front-runners though to set a good pace.

“I haven’t spoken to the boss or the owner yet regarding tactics but we’ll see how we’re going and play it by year. I had my first ride last year and I got buried at the Canal Turn the second time around (on Ballycassidy) but hopefully I’ll get further this year. The main thing is to get around safe and anything after that is a bonus.”

Meanwhile, Tony Dobbin, successful on Lord Gyllene in the 1997 renewal of the John Smith’s Grand National when the race was postponed to the Monday after a bomb alert, is looking forward to riding last year’s favourite, the Pat Hughes-trained Point Barrow, who got no further than the first fence 12 months ago.

“Point Barrow was a good spare ride to pick up this week. I had no ride in this year’s race for a while because our horse got injured and there were a few other spares going but, thank God, I hung tight and got this one,” explained the rider

“Hopefully I’ll get further with him than he did last year! To be fair, he was a deserving favourite, he’s won an Irish Grand National and is decent horse. Back to his best, he’ll have a right squeak hopefully.

“I haven’t walked the National course yet, just the Mildmay Course, but they do an amazing job here. It is the best run course in the whole of England. It’s beautiful ground and there’ll be no excuses for any horse. I love this place, so hopefully I’ll get a winner.

“I haven’t spoke to Pat (Hughes) at all. A friend of mine, Brendan O’Rourke, has horses there and he rang me about it. I’ll be hoping for a good run though.”



PIPE CONFIDENT OF COMPLY’S CHANCES

In his second season as the master of Pond House, David Pipe will saddle five runner’s in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National. His contingent is headed by the David Johnson-owned Comply Or Die, who retained jockey Timmy Murphy will partner.

Also running in Johnson’s colours will be Vodka Bleu and Joaaci, while Madison Du Berlais and Milan Deux Mille complete the quintet, who will not arrive at Aintree until the morning of the race.

Pipe said: “Comply Or Die is the 10/1 second favourite and comes to Aintree in great form. He’s schooled nicely over the Aintree-style fences at home. He finished second behind Cloudy Lane in the Tommy Whittle at Haydock, beaten two and a half lengths, and he’s 4lb better off with him on Saturday.

“He then went on and won the totesport Eider over four miles and one at Newcastle. He’s bred to jump and stay and, with a bit of luck in running, he could go very close.”

His team of five will be bidding to improve on his record from his first season, when he ran both Puntal and Celtic Son. While the latter was pulled up before the 22nd of the 30 obstacles, veteran Puntal stayed on for eighth place.

He continued: “All five have schooled well at home. Vodka Bleu and Milan Deux Mille have both run in the John Smith’s Topham Chase, so they’ve got some experience over the fences. They’re all old fashioned steeplechasers, which is what you need for a race like this.

“Of the others, Vodka Bleu has a chance at a big price. Timmy (Murphy) was always going to ride him because this race has been mapped out for him for a long time. But, after Comply Or Die’s performance at Newcastle, he decided to swap. You can’t blame him after that performance under top-weight over four miles and one.

“The John Smith’s Grand National is different to what it was a few years ago. There’s one stone, five pounds between top and bottom so it’s a lot more of a compressed handicap nowadays. It’s not so much of a lottery as it used to be, I would say.

“Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a very difficult race to win but maybe the class horse wins the race these days.”



2008 JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL LANDMARKS

Jockeys

Youngest jockey: Mr Nick Scholfield (Cornish Sett), 18

Oldest jockey: Mick Fitzgerald (L’Ami), 37

Most successful jockey: Ruby Walsh (Hedgehunter), 2 wins and 3 places from 7 rides

Least successful jockey: Tony McCoy (Butler’s Cabin), 0 wins from 12 rides.

First time jockeys: Aidan Coleman (Mon Mome), David England (Naunton Brook), Johnny Farrelly (Joacci), Paddy Flood (Baily Breeze), Barry Keniry (Kelami), Wilson Renwick (Backbeat), Tom Ryan (Tumbling Dice), Mr Nick Scholfield (Cornish Sett)

Trainers

Oldest trainer: John Spearing (Simon), 67. Francois Doumen FR (L’Ami and Kelami) is also 67 but a month younger.

Youngest trainer: Eoin Doyle IRE (No Full), 29

Most successful trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies (Knowhere, Fundamentalist, Naunton Brook) - 2 wins and 1 place from 25 runners

Least successful trainer: Paul Nicholls - 0 wins from 12

First time trainers: Eoin Doyle IRE (No Full), Dessie Hughes IRE (Black Apalachi), Tom Mullins IRE (Chelsea Harbour), Paul Murphy (Contraband)

Horses

Oldest horses: Hedgehunter and Philson Run, 12

Youngest horses: Milan Deux Mille, Opera Mundi and Turko, 6

Biggest money earner: Hedgehunter £784,593

Smallest earner: Milan Deux Mille £32,429

John Smith’s Grand National placed: Hedgehunter (Won 2005, 2nd 2006), McKelvey (2nd 2007), Slim Pickings (3rd 2007), Philson Run (4th 2007).

STAR SIGNS OF THIS YEAR’S JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL CONTENDERS

Aquarius
Hedgehunter (January 25, 1996)
Turko (February 6, 2002)

Aries
Black Apalachi (April 13, 1999)
Cornish Sett (April 16, 1999)
Dun Doire (April 17, 1999)
Hi Cloy (April 12, 1997)
Milan Deux Mille (March 31, 2002)
No Full (March 21, 2001)
Snowy Morning (April 17, 2000)
Vodka Bleu (April 9, 1999)

Capricorn
L’Ami (January 1, 1999)

Gemini
Backbeat (June 15, 1997)
Bewleys Berry (June 9, 1998)
Bob Hall (May 29, 2001)
Idle Talk (June 1, 1999)
Mr Pointment (May 29, 1999)
Philson Run (May 26, 1996)

Leo
McKelvey (August 5, 1999)

Pisces
Cloudy Lane (February 18, 2000)
Contraband (March 3, 1998)
Fundamentalist (March 3, 1998)
Joacci (March 14, 2000)
Nadover (March 13, 2001)
Tumbling Dice (March 3, 1999)

Taurus
Baily Breeze (May 1, 1999)
Butler’s Cabin (April 25, 2000)
Chelsea Harbour (May 4, 2000)
Comply Or Die (May 11, 1999)
D’Argent (May 10, 1997)
Iron Man (April 21, 2001)
Kelami (May 5, 1998)
King Johns Castle (April 26, 1999)
Knowhere (May 16, 1998)
Madison Du Berlais (April 28, 2001)
Mon Mome (April 29, 2000)
Naunton Brook (May 8, 1999)
Opera Mundi (May 20, 2002)
Point Barrow (May 12, 1998)
Simon (April 27, 1999)
Slim Pickings (May 2, 1999)


Race 1 - John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle

FIRST BLOOD TO BAILEY

The 2008 John Smith’s Grand National meeting got underway with a win for Blazing Bailey in the Grade Two John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle.

The six-year-old, a 5/1 chance, stayed on well to hold off the challenge of 20/1 outsider Faasel by six lengths with 13/8 favourite Inglis Drever a further three lengths back in third.

Successful trainer Alan King said: “He hit a flat spot down the back, but stayed on well in the straight as he always does.”

Blazing Bailey was fitted with blinkers for first time today, but King was not sure that the headgear had made any difference.

The Barbury Castle handler continued: “I am not sure the blinkers did that much to be honest, although on the other hand they haven’t hindered him either.

“When Choc (Robert Thornton, jockey) saw I had put blinkers on him when he schooled him earlier this week, he was a bit shocked.

“I just thought that he was so fresh when he came back after the World Hurdle at Cheltenham that there might have still been a wee bit left in the tank and that blinkers might sharpen him up.”

The trainer continued to say that he believed it was worth taking on Inglis Drever, three-times winner of Cheltenham’s Ladbrokes World Hurdle, at Aintree: “I am a big fan of Inglis Drever, but I think it is fair comment to say he is not as good around Aintree as he is at Cheltenham, it’s just not his track.”

Looking ahead to the future, King said: “Blazing Bailey is so consistent and it is nice to get a good win into him.

“He is a proper stayer, not a quick horse. Even when he was a four-year-old he ran over two and a half miles around here. He could go to Punchestown now, although he has come back with a nasty cut behind and we will just have to see how he is.”

Russell Field, part of Three Line Whip syndicate that owns Blazing Bailey, added: “Inglis Drever is a great horse but we thought that around here he doesn’t travel quite as well as he does at Cheltenham so we thought we would be in with a chance. He just stays and it was a great ride by Choc, he’s riding out of his skin.”

D’Argent will represent the Alan King/Robert Thornton combination in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National although King is not brimming with confidence at this stage.

He said: “I have no idea whether D’Argent will take to the fences on Saturday - I think we will know our fate early on in the race.”

First race quotes - winning jockey

THORNTON HAS BLAZING START

Robert ‘Chocolate’ Thornton got the John Smith’s Grand National meeting off to the best possible start with success in the opening John Smith’s Great Float Social Club on the Alan King-trained Blazing Bailey.

“I was worried when I missed the last down the back, when I got a little bit tight for space. I actually fell there in last year’s for similar reasons. I lost maybe two or three lengths, but I got him out and got a bit of light.

“He’s the type of horse that the more you ask, the more he’ll do. He was always going to see out the trip and the further he went, the better he got.

“He was a bit on and off the bridle all the way. The ground is beautiful, just on the slow side - perfect ground. He’s made hard work of it but you don’t mind as long as they do what you ask. You have to keep him up to it but he’s won well.”

Thornton, whose best finish in the John Smith’s Grand National is seventh from four completed starts out of 11 attempts, is confident that King’s D’Argent can give him a good ride on Saturday.

“I schooled D’Argent on Monday. He’s kind of got his own way of doing things jumping-wise but I’m not going to change that. He’s in good form so as long as I get him into a rhythm early he’ll certainly give me a good ride.”




The John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle
Second Place Quotes


FAASEL IN THE MOOD

Trainer Nicky Richards is used to dealing with the moods of his seven-year-old gelding Faasel. “I knew today, because he jumped into the horse box happy as Larry, that he would go well” he said, after the 20/1 chance had finished second to Blazing Bailey in the John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle.

The horse gave his handler different signals before he lined up for his last outing, in the Letherby and Christopher Chase at Cheltenham in January. “I knew it wasn’t his day then at the saddling boxes. I’d have withdrawn him then if I could have,” said Richards. The trainer was spot on; the horse was pulled up.

When the mood takes him, though, Faasel can turn it on. “He’s always been a high-class horse, always able to throw in one like that. He isn’t bad at all on his day, but he is a law unto himself,” he said.

Richards feels that the horse, who has alternated between chasing and hurdling in his last nine outings, is probably still a better hurdler than chaser.

Faasel’s jockey Brian Harding was given a one-day ban for careless riding.

FIRST RACE PLACED QUOTES

JOHN SMITH’S GREAT FLOAT SOCIAL CLUB LIVERPOOL HURDLE (GRADE 2)

MAXIMUM OF THREE MORE STARTS FOR DREVER

The brilliant Inglis Drever will race only a maximum of three more times after battling on to finish third behind Blazing Bailey in the John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle.

“He was lathered up beforehand when I saddled him up and I said to his lass Ginni that he was over the top,” said trainer Howard Johnson. “He just hit too many flat spots in the race and it was probably one run too many.

“Since Cheltenham I’ve had bronchitis and pneumonia so I’ve not seen the horses as much as I’d like at home.”

“He went for a long one and flunked the last completely, if he had pinged the last he still would have won so he’s run very well and this is not his favourite track - long term he’ll never come back here.”

Inglis Drever is 7/2 from 3/1 with Coral to win his fourth Ladbrokes World Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2009 and Johnson added: “He’ll have a summer off now and if we do decide to bring him back next season he’lll only have three runs and be retired after the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at Cheltenham - he’ll go to Newbury, the Cleeve and then the World Hurdle. He’ll have no more than three more starts in his life.”

Owner Graham Wylie added: “He made a mistake at the second or third and that threw him - he was off the bridle for a long way so to have got third is great.”

Jockey Denis O’Regan added: “He ran a great race and came back in one piece which is the main thing.”

JOHNSON SWEET ON BERRY
Trainer Howard Johnson is hopeful that Bewleys Berry can realise a long-held ambition with victory in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National.

“I first came here when I was 15 with Bobby Oxley, who was with Arthur Stephenson, then rode against Lester Piggott on the Flat here. I always said I would come back here one day with a horse for the big race and I hope Saturday will be the day,” said Johnson. “That’s the one I really want this week, it’s nice to have the other runners but that’s what we’re here for.

“We’ve been close in the past - Over The Deel came third (in 1995) and Old Applejack was seventh and eighth and I’ve always been lucky over the big fences in the Topham and Becher.

“The horse has pleased me, trained well and had a little swim this morning. He’s schooled over
National-type fences and is the one I’ve really been waiting for - with a clear run he should be thereabouts.The thing with him is that he just jumps from fence to fence, last year he was going so well and it was unfortunate that he just knuckled over. I think he’ll run very well and if he did win I’d retire if I didn’t have Mr Wylie - the race is something I’ve dreamed about for 35 years.”




GOING ON THE EASY SIDE OF GOOD, SAY FIRST-RACE JOCKEYS

Jockeys who rode in the opening race on day one of the John Smith's Grand National meeting, generally reported the ground as on the easy side of good. Of those interviewed only Denis O'Regan, who was third on the favourite Inglis Drever, felt the ground was 'tacky'.

Robert Thornton, who rode the winner, Blazing Bailey, said: "It's lovely ground, on the slow side of good."

Brian Harding, who rode runner-up Faasel, said: "It's lovely, though on the slow side of good."

Denis O'Regan, third on favourite Inglis Drever, said: "It's good to soft and very tacky."

Tom Scudamore, fourth on Logh Derg, "It may be a little dead, though no cause for concern."

Brian Hughes, last on Chief Dan George, said: "It's on the slow side of good and lovely ground."

Wayne Kavanagh, 10th on Kawagino, said: "It's nice ground, though a little on the slow side."






LOUGH DERG MAY RUN AGAIN ON SATURDAY BATTLE FOR ORDER OF MERIT


Lough Derg, currently second in his battle with Kauto Star for the Order of Merit, may run again on Saturday in the £160,000 Grade One Scottish & Newcastle Pub Enterprises Aintree Hurdle after finishing fourth in the opener today - the John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle.

His trainer David Pipe commented: “We will see how he is later on. If he is fine and has recovered well from this race, we will run again on Saturday.”

His fourth and Kauto Star’s second in the following race, the totesport Bowl, means that Order Of Merit points are currently 100 to Kauto Star and 94 to Lough Derg who would go ahead if he came fifth or better on Saturday and draw if he was sixth.

The totesport Bowl Steeple Chase - winner Quotes

OUR VIC STAGES A GREAT REVIVAL

David Johnson, the owner of Our Vic, winner of the totesport Bowl Chase acknowledged that he had accepted defeat as his horse dropped back behind Kauto Star going to the second last. “On form, we were third in [behind Kauto Star and Exotic Dancer] and I didn’t think he would win. I thought we would come second.”

“I was watching the race from the restaurant and I’d resigned myself to second. Timmy [Murphy] said that Kauto stopped in front for whatever reason. I didn’t think we had beaten him, though. I thought we’d come second, but it’s a great race to win,” he added.

Even Murphy was not convinced that the horse had got up in the final strides. “I had half an idea at the line, but then I’ve often thought that and it’s not gone my way. He had an awful lot of work to do but this proves that he stays over three miles,” he said.

“Ruby pinged the third last and I missed it. Kauto Star went five or six lengths clear and I was thinking that he would go on from there, but he has given me something to aim at, and once my lad had something to chase, he’s picked up again. From the last it was nip and tuck all the way to the line and I think I came at Kauto Star late enough and he didn’t have time to respond. I thought I had got it crossing the line but I’ve felt like that many times before and the result has gone the other way. It was a big relief to hear number four being called out! That’s probably the best race in his life today and I couldn’t be any happier with him. I was hoping that the ground wouldn’t be to soft for him today because it is a quick track and he needs to go a good gallop and travel. He’s dictated the pace and it’s a great result in the end.”

The jockey thought that the application of blinkers, first used in his last outing, when he cruised home in the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival had made a difference and Johnson too thought that they had “helped to revitalise the horse” though he gave his jockey plenty of credit. “He’s a great horseman; probably the best there is,” he said.

Johnson also put in a plea for his horse, who has had a reputation for unreliability. “I don’t know why he’s got a [Timeform] squiggle by his name. He’s not been out of the first three in his last 10 races,” he said.

The plaudits also came from the David Pipe, the trainer. “He’s a very good horse. When this fellow retires we won’t half miss him,” he said.

“Both horses deserved to win but Our Vic and Timmy have given their all. He’s battled back and got a good jump at the last. He’s got there in the dying strides, which I didn’t think he had.

“I was always happy until we made a mistake at the first in the home straight and Kauto Star’s gone on. The blinkers have definitely helped him. They’ve sharpened him up and Timmy asked him to respond as he has.

“He’s a very good horse and he’s been a very good horse all of his life. Eddie Buckley, the head lad, rides him everyday. And I said to him the other day that when this fellow retires we won’t half miss him.”


PLACED QUOTES
RACE 2: TOTESPORT BOWL CHASE (GRADE 2)

'I GOT KAUTO TACTICS WRONG,' SAYS NICHOLLS

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls said he got the tactics wrong after Kauto Star was beaten a nose by Our Vic in the Grade Two £160,000 totesport Bowl Chase.

Although Our Vic made the early running, Kauto Star was kept prominent and challenged the winner throughout the final circuit before kicking on off the final bend.

However, he blundered daly at the second-last and was a sitting duck when producing a tired leap at the last. Our Vic rallied and collared him near the line.

Nicholls admitted he had told Walsh to keep Kauto Star handy and added the jockey was "steaming" following the defeat. The trainer commented: "Ruby said 'I should have hung onto him and normally I have the balls to do what I want', but I got it completely wrong by telling him to sail on when he would have been better off getting a lead. I said if you're going well let him bowl along, but he felt he should have had a lead and not been so positive, but I'll take the blame. Ruby said he knew turning in that I'd got it wrong and now he's mad with me, but that's racing.

"I said to him, 'more times than not we get it right', but he's steaming with me now. The horse was idling a bit in front and it's a long home straight, but I was wrong on the day. It's not the end of the world, but as Ruby said, there's a difference between winning and losing.

"All credit to Our Vic who has run a cracking race - the best horse on the day won. Kauto always makes the odd mistake although on the whole he's brilliant. Going to the last ditch with his ears pricked he missed the jump out, but that's just him. We'll take him home, freshen him up and you'll see him back next autumn.

"You don't win the races he's won without being a very good horse. I got the tactics wrong but he'll be back next season."

Nicholls had the consolation of knowing second-place prize money took his haul for the season past the £3,000,000 mark, and when asked about the tactics for his brilliant five-year-old Master Minded in tomorrow's Melling Chase, he laughed and said: "I'll leave that to Ruby."

Bookmakers quickly lengthened the price of Kauto Star for next year's totesport Gold Cup, which he won in 2007, and many shortened his stablemate Denman, who won the race last month. Cashmans go 7-1 Kauto Star from 4-1, Paddy Power and Coral offer 5-1, while Totesport and William Hill go 9-2.

EXOTIC JUST “NOT GOOD ENOUGH”

Connections of Grade Two totesport Bowl Chase third, the Jonjo O’Neill-trained Exotic Dancer, felt that their charge simply wasn’t good enough on the day to go with the first two home, Our Vic and Kauto Star.

Barry Simpson, racing manager to owner Sir Robert Ogden, said: “We’ve no excuses. The pace was strong and he jumped well enough, but he simply wasn’t good enough today.

“I’d say that will be it for the season, we’ve nothing else to enter him in and he’s not going to Ireland so I’d imagine he’ll go home for a summer break.

“Apart from the Haydock race, he’s not fired as we’ve probably seen him in the previous year. But we’ve also got to remember that we’ve stepped him up from being a two and a half-mile handicapper off 140 to finish up in the 170s. It’s probably taken it’s toll on the horse as well a little bit so we’ll give him a break and start again next year.

“He’ll go the same route next year. We might try to do something different, like put a pair of blinkers on him and take the ear plugs out. You’ve got to try something different. But he’s a very, very solid horse.

“If you look at the ratings, he’s run within a couple of pounds of his best rating with Kauto Star and the fourth and fifth are a mile behind, whether they’ve run their race or not I don’t know, but we’ve very nearly run to our mark.”




FIRST RACE STEWARDS’ INQUIRY
JOHN SMITH’S GREAT FLOAT SOCIAL CLUB LIVERPOOL HURDLE (GRADE TWO)

THORNTON GETS ONE-DAY SUSPENSION


There was a sting in the tail of Robert Thornton’s first race success on Blazing Bailey when he was found guilty of careless riding causing interference, by drifting left after the second last, to the third-placed Inglis Drever. After considering the evidence, the Stewards suspended Thornton for one racing day.

Also in the opening John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle, Brian Harding, rider of Faasel, was found guilty of careless riding, in that he allowed his mount to drift right after the second last, causing interference to the Paddy Brennan-ridden Ballyfitz. He was also suspended for one day.

Both suspensions are for Thursday, April 17.

THIRD RACE WINNING QUOTES
JOHN SMITH’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O NOVICES’ HURDLE

RAISE YOUR GLASSES TO BINOCULAR

Tony McCoy partnered Binocular to a hugely impressive seven-length success over the JCB Triumph Hurdle winner Celestial Halo to the delight of trainer Nicky Henderson.

“I think he is a very classy horse, he’s done little wrong and you have to say the horse that beat him at Cheltenham (Captain Cee Bee) must be very good,” said Henderson.

“He very nearly didn’t go to Cheltenham because we thought this might be the better place for him because of that natural speed.that he’s got. He’s always been a very good jumper and was very slick today, very professional. He deserved it. He goes on soft and good ground and you’d have to say he’s pretty smart.

“He’s a good four-year-old but we all know the next step is difficult. We felt he’s learned from Cheltenham and this was the obvious way to ride him today - have one crack at the other horse and try to do him for toe. Cheltenham was the first time AP had sat on the horse and we would have possibly left it longer if we had been taking on Celestial Halo there.

“He’s entered at Punchestown but I haven’t spoken to J P (McManus) about it and as AP (McCoy) said this horse is very good and needs minding, it could be holiday time for him.”


Jockey Tony McCoy added: “He travelled well at Cheltenham as well and he’s got plenty of pace and this track would have helped him. Obviously, I rode the wrong one at Cheltenham but I had been injured and hadn’t ridden any of them so I didn’t know. But I was happy after Cheltenham to come here and take on Celestial Halo.

“He has loads of pace and the problem we had at Cheltenham was that there were a lot of horses in contention coming down the hill and to the second last I went to join Ruby and the other fancied horses. As it happened Captain Cee Bee wasn’t travelling so it would have been very hard to follow a horse that was off the bridle at the top of the hill in a championship race, so I tagged along with the fancied horses.

“If you had the chance to ride the race again and you knew that Captain Cee Bee was going to come you would take a chance and follow him, but it’s easy afterwards. He deserved to win today after such a good run at Cheltenham.

“With nine runners I knew the main danger would be in front so tactically it was easier to do. His jumping was even slicker today than at Cheltenham and I’d like to think he’s improved a bit.

“It was only his fourth run so hopefully he’s still getting better and his rating today was 143 so I think he would have to go up by another 20lb or so to challenge Katchit next year. But his races so far have suggested that he is going the right way.”

McCOY LOOKING FORWARD TO BUTLER’S CABIN

Tony McCoy is hoping it will be 13th time lucky in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National when he partners Butler’s Cabin in the big race.

“It wasn’t a tough choice to ride him but I’ve picked the wrong one a few times before,” said McCoy, who has had no success in 12 previous National starts.

“He’s won an Irish National and the four-miler at Cheltenham so you’d have to think that there’s not much of a question mark from the staying point of view.

“I just thought this one has more potential of winning a Grand National than (owner J P McManus’s) other entries.”

|
PLACED QUOTES
RACE 3: JOHN SMITH'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O NOVICES' HURDLE (GRADE 1)


HALO SLIPS, BUT CELESTIAL STILL A HORSE TO NOTE

Paul Nicholls was back in the runner-up spot after Celestial Halo chased home Binocular in the John Smith's 250th Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices' Hurdle.

Celestial Halo won the JCB Triumph Hurdle on his previous outing at Cheltenham, but could not match Binocular's turn of foot.

Nicholls said: "This is more of a speed track [than Cheltenham] and it was more suitable for him [Binocular]. Our horse will have a summer off, strengthen up a bit and we can look forward to next year with him.

"The stiffer track suited him and we've been beaten today by a mile and a quarter horse on the Flat, whereas our horse was a mile and six type. We set it up for the winner, but that's the way it goes.

"Next season, we'll start off trying those Champion Hurdle trials and see what happens. It might be he's good enough round a stiff track, or it may be that he will want to go further. He's run another sound race."

Asked about his John Smith's Grand National team of four runners - Mr Pointment, Turko, Opera Mundi and Cornish Sett - Nicholls said: "They were all fine this morning and they've all been declared, but we'll just have a look at the ground tomorrow."

Opera Mundi had been a doubt if the ground became too quick, and Nicholls said: "His owner wanted to run him and that's fine, but if it dried out we'd take a look and make an early decision."


Race 3 - John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle

ELLIOTT HAPPY WITH HARPER

Irish trainer Gordon Elliott, successful in last year’s John Smith’s Grand National with Silver Birch, was happy with the effort of Harper Valley, who finished 20 lengths third behind Binocular and Celestial Halo in the Grade One John Smith’s 250 Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle.

Elliott said: “Harper Valley has run a blinder, it was just his jumping that has let him down a bit today.

“He will probably go to Punchestown now and then that will be it for the season.

“Next year, he will be back over hurdles and he could maybe have some runs on the Flat over the summer.

QUOTES
RACE 4: JOHN SMITH'S FOX HUNTERS' CHASE

CHRISTY BEAMISH TAKES REVENGE ON KATARINO

Christy Beamish, who two years ago was runner-up to Katarino in the John Smith's Fox Hunters' Chase, gained revenge on that rival in today's renewal.

The winner, an 11-year-old who fell in the Christie's Foxhunter Chase at Cheltenham, was trained by Wolverhampton-based livery yard owner Paul Jones for Solihull farmer Michael Mann. Josh Guerriero, who is based with Philip Hobbs, took the ride.

Jones said: "That's not only the highlight of my time as a trainer, it's the highlight of everything! We always thought one day we could win a big race with him, and Cheltenham just wasn't to be, but he likes it here and he acts well on flat tracks.

"Apart from going on his nose at Becher's Brook, where Josh was brilliant, he's jumped well. I've admired Josh for a long time and Mr Mann was very keen to put him on. Josh was well aware that Katarino was a big danger again and knew he had to push that horse, but I'll tell you what, the Waley-Cohens deserve a medal to come here and nearly beat us when we were on the top of our game and their horse had not run for a year.

"Last year we could barely get a winner, and he's our 10th this season."

Jones, a saddler by trade, will hand over responsibility for training his pointers to his partner, vet Sue Taylor, at the end of the season, he said.

Guerriero, 19, commented: "That was unbelievable - I didn't know whether he would keep going up the run-in, but he's gutsy and outbattled the other horse. He pecked on landing quite badly at Becher's Brook and I thought I was gone, but I sat back, he stayed on his feet and then I didn't want to rush him."

Mann, who has owned pointers "for 30 years", said: "After we ran this horse in his first race, Paul said, 'one day he'll win a big race for you'. When he won at Haydock [the Walrus Hunters' Chase in February] I thought that was the big race, but Paul said, 'don't be in a hurry, that might not be the one'."


The John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Steeple Chase - 2nd Placed Quotes

KATARINO’S THIRD THWARTED


Katarino’s determined effort to win a third John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase earned huge praise from his trainer/owner Robert Waley-Cohen. “He’s a fabulous horse and he just loves this place,” he said.

Katarino had jumped soundly and held every chance coming to the elbow, before being outstayed on the run-in by Christy Beamish.

Although this was the 13-year-old’s first outing under rules in almost two years (he had competed in just one point to point in that time) Waley-Cohen did not think the lack of a run made any difference.

“It’s incredibly frustrating not to win it for the third time, but I don’t think fitness was an issue. He’s like all of us, the years just catch up. This horse has been winning in my colours for 10 years and that really is something,” he said.

Waley-Cohen has made no plans for yet for Katarino’s future. “He’s got no entries, but I make no plans for this horse. I’ve retired him five or six time already,” he said.

The owner’s son, Sam Waley-Cohen, rode the horse, and gave credit to his father: “It was a brilliant training performance,” he said.

“Well, he’d have to say that if he wants the ride,” responded his father.

FOURTH RACE THIRD PLACE QUOTES
JOHN SMITH’S FOX HUNTERS’ CHASE


WILLIAMS “VERY PLEASED” WITH JOE


Trainer Venetia Williams expressed her delight with 25/1 outsider Holy Joe, who finished a 19-length third in the John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase over two miles, five and a half furlongs of the Grand National course.

The 11-year-old, who put in a foot-perfect round of jumping, was partnered by Jacqueline Coward, daughter of Cherry Coward, who trains the fourth home, Sonevafushi.

“We’re very pleased. He’s jumped absolutely super the whole way around and been up in the front rank the entire way with his ears pricked.

“Jacqueline was delighted with him - a little bit too delighted, I think, because she mistook the winning post for about half a furlong early. She was patting him down the neck as Sonevafushi was bearing down on her.

“We might just take him to France for an amateur riders’ chase that is coming up at Auteuil but we’ll have to talk about that first.”


Race 4 - John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase - Ground


JOCKEYS GENERALLY SAY GOOD GROUND AFTER THE JOHN SMITH’S FOX HUNTERS’ CHASE ON THE GRAND NATIONAL COURSE

After the John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase, the first race run over the National fences at the 2008 John Smith’s Grand National meeting, the following jockeys gave their opinion as to state of the ground.

Mr Josh Guerriero, rider of the winner Christy Beamish, said: “I would say good ground. Very nice ground, actually.”

Mr Sam Waley-Cohen, rider of the runner-up Katarino, said: “I love the Grand National fences! The going and the fences are in great nick.”

Jacqueline Coward, who finished third on Holy Joe, said: “Good ground. It’s nice and fresh.”

Richard Burton, rider of Alvino, said: “Good to soft.”

Miss Vicky Simpson, rider of Jacksonville, reported that: “I’m not really sure as I fell off at the Chair. It was quite hard when I landed.”

Mr Nick Scholfield, rider of Thisthatandtother, said: “It’s good going.”

Mr Colman Sweeney, who partnered Whitenzo, reported that the ground was: “Soft in places.”

Miss Caroline Woods, who partnered Younowhat, said of the going: “It’s good to soft. It rode really well actually.”


FIFTH RACE WINNING TRAINER QUOTES
SILVER CROSS PRAMS RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE (GRADE THREE)

WILLIAMS THRILLED WITH STAN

Trainer Venetia Williams sent out 25/1 shot Stan to score in the two-mile Grade Three Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase under up and coming 5lb claimer Aidan Coleman, whom the trainer spoke very highly about.

She said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to bits. They went a lickety-spit pace and the idea was to sit in handy and hope that he’d travel and jump, which he did.

“I wasn’t confident coming into the race because he hasn’t won a race for such a long time and he was 5lb out of the handicap but, at the same time, he ran well in this race last year from a similar stage out of the handicap. I thought he’d run well but winning was far from the imagination,” explained the trainer.

Regarding Stan’s recent form, she added: “I wouldn’t say that there has been anything wrong with Stan as such but I have kind of found that he’s a bit tripless really. Today suited him really well. You needed a horse with pace and a horse who could stay a bit further. Aidan has given him an absolutely super ride.

“Sam Thomas said to me in the summer that Aidan would be interested in moving to me from Henrietta Knight so I asked him to send me some videos of his rides and I liked what I saw.”

The Herefordshire trainer saddles Mon Mome in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National and Coleman will be in the saddle again.

Williams continued: “I thought long and hard about who was going to ride Mon Mome in the John Smith’s Grand National because obviously Aidan can’t claim. He’s a very, very talented rider and I was tossing up between natural talent and experience. I decided that Aidan’s natural talent far outweighs experience.”


Race 5 - Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase - Winning Jockey Quotes

AIDAN COLEMAN ON STAN’S RED RUM VICTORY

Conditional jockey Aidan Coleman was over the moon after riding Stan to victory in the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase.

The 19-year-old said: “To ride my first winner on my first ride here is just brilliant.

“Stan jumped super today and the good gallop really suited him as he stays further.

“He jumped perfectly. He was a bit short at a couple of fences, but managed to wing it.

“There was plenty of room and daylight today which also suited him well.

“This horse has always run well and not really had the credit he deserves.

“That’s 22 winners for the season now. I haven’t looked back since I joined Venetia Williams this season and my agent Sam Stronge has also been a great help.

“Mr Beck (the owner) has always been good to me and has given me the chance to ride in big races like the Irish Grand National and the Red Square Vodka Gold Cup.”

The Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase
Placed Quotes

HAPPY ABOUT HENRY


For a brief moment, coming to the second last, trainer Philip Hobbs thought that it really would be Hoorahs for Henry as his horse came to challenge for the lead in the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Chase, but the challenge of Lord Henry petered out.

“I think they went so fast that a lot of them didn’t get home. There were a few that went out a lot quicker than ours,” said Hobbs.

The connections, though, were delighted as Lord Henry, who eventually finished third behind Stan and Dev, has not always been the easiest horse to train. “We’ve had to be very patient with him, because he was a bit of a head-banger. You couldn’t saddle him up in the saddling yard,” said owner Karola Vann.

“Now he’s settled down and the penny’s finally dropped. He’s finally got his jumping together - he used to get a bit close,” she added.

Hobbs expects Lord Henry to go to Ayr for his next outing.

Mick Quinlan, trainer of runner-up Dev, said: “We thought Lennon would give us an easier lead than he did, but we were always comfortable up there and he battled well to be second.

“The key to him is that he’s a great jumper and he might go to Punchestown, but his owner Liam Mulryan is a Galway man so the Galway Plate would be high on his agenda, but he could return here in October for the Sefton Chase.”


£370,381 JACKPOT ROLLOVER

The tote Jackpot will start tomorrow with a massive £370,381 in the pool after a string of shocks at Aintree today.

Spokesman Damian Walker said: “If the bet isn’t won tomorrow, then I’m sure there’ll be £1 million in the jackpot come the first race at Aintree on Saturday.

“The bet looked likely to be won when £99 remained going into the fifth leg, but amazingly the only two of the 18 horses not covered - Stan and Lord Henry - jumped the last together, with Stan prevailing.”

Totesport bet on tomorrow’s racing:-

John Smith’s Mildmay Chase
3m 1f Aintree 2.00pm Live on BBC2
7-4 Alberta’s Run, 10-3 Big Buck’s 9-2 Roll Along, 5 Battlecry, 10 Starzaan, 16 Cedrus Libani, Joe Lively, 500 Monzon
Each-way 1/5 1, 2, 3

John Smith’s C5 Sefton Novice Hurdle
3m 110yds Aintree 2.35pm Live on BBC2
15-8 Tazbar, 5 Nenuphar Collonges, The Tother One, 8 Souffleur, 9 Gone To Lunch, 10 Pettifour, 14 Middelton Dene, Quickbeam, 25 Sound Accord, 28 Logans Run, 40 Bonnie Rock, 66 Bulwark, La Vecchia Scuola
Each-way 1/5 1, 2, 3

John Smith’s Melling Chase
2m 4f Aintree 3.10pm Live on BBC2
2-7 Master Minded, 5 Voy Por Ustedes, 8 Monet’s Garden, Tamarinbleu, 25 Mister McGoldrick, 66 Newmill, 100 Yes Sir
Each-way 1/4 1, 2

John Smith’s Topham Chase
2m 5f 110yds Aintree 3.45pm Live on BBC2
9 Gwanako, Pak Jack, 11 Kenzo III, Nacarat, 12 Natal, 14 Bothar Na, Theatre Knight, 16 In The High Grass, 18 Irish Raptor, Mighty Matters, You’re Special, 20 Dunbrody Millar, Palarshan, Too Forward, 25 Crozan, Randwick Roar, Roman Ark, Which Pocket, 28 I Hear Thunder, Nice Try, 33 Dreux, Lankawi, Marked Man, 40 Black Hills, Eric’s Charm, Mac’s Flamingo, Oodachee, 50 Time To Sell, Tommy Spar, 100 Azulejo
Each-way 1/4 1, 2, 3, 4


The Citroën C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle
Winners Quotes

DREAMS ARE NOT ELUSIVE FOR FINDLAY

Harry Findlay can hardly put a foot wrong at the moment. With his mother Maggie by his side, the ebullient Findlay was celebrating yet another fabulous victory after Elusive Dream powered home in the Citroën C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle.

This led Findlay dreaming of capturing yet another race - the Ladbrokes World Hurdle - at next year’s Cheltenham Festival. “There aren’t many stayers around,” he said forgetfully.

Trainer Paul Nicholls had laid the horse out for Aintree. “We didn’t send him to Cheltenham as this track suits him much better,” he said, the smile back on his face.

Nicholls added: “He stays and he was a bit careful with his jumping down the back. If he jumped fluently, that might help him a bit more, but he jumps and he gallops.

“He was a good flat horse and I thought he looked outstanding in the paddock today and he ran like it.”

The word on all their lips - trainer, owner jockey Ruby Walsh - was how “gutsy” the horse was.

“He missed out on the hurdle four out and three out. If he had got those right, he would have gone on earlier,” explained Findlay. “As it was he almost had to win his race twice.”

Elusive Dream is entered in the Scottish & Newcastle Pub Enterprises Aintree Hurdle on Saturday and that option was still being talked about as they arrived in the winner’s enclosure.

But after consulting with the trainer, Findlay thought it unlikely that the horse would run again this season.

“It was a tough race at Fontwell and a tough race today, so he won’t run on Saturday. There’s a race at Punchestown in three weeks, but I expect it’ll be next season by the time you see him again.

Ruby Walsh received a one-day ban for the frequency with which he hit the horse.

SIXTH RACE PLACED TRAINER QUOTES
CITROEN C5 MERSEY NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE

McCAIN DELIGHTED WITH WHITEOAK


Despite a last flight blunder, the Donald McCain Jnr-trained Whiteoak stayed on tenaciously under Jason Maguire to collect second place in the Citroen C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle over two and a half miles.

The trainer said: “Whiteoak’s run an absolute screamer in her first major run against the geldings and I think she’s surpassed herself.

“She just pitched on her head at the last and lost a little bit of her momentum but she’s as tough as nails. As soon as the other horse came to her, she wouldn’t be beat and galloped all the way to the line.”

The trainer, who will be represented in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National by favourite Cloudy Lane, will wait to see how the mare comes out of today’s race before deciding on her next target.

“She has an entry at Punchestown but I don’t know if she’ll go yet, we’ll wait and see. To be fair, I don’t want to abuse her so we’ll just see how she comes out of this and play it by year. Nothing is a given, we’ll just see how she is because she is a little bit delicate and she’s done nothing wrong all year.”

Meanwhile, Alan King, trainer of third home, Franchoek, was also happy with his charge’s performance.

King said:“He’s run very well for a four-year-old against older horses. He’s in two races at Punchestown and if he runs again this season it will be there.”


SEVENTH RACE WINNING QUOTES
JOHN SMITH’S HANDICAP HURDLE

AURORAS’ 50/1 SURPRISE

The Sue Smith-trained Auroras Encore sprang a 50/1 surprise when battling hard to take the concluding John Smith’s Handicap Hurdle under Tjade Collier.

“I’ve always thought he was very nice and has proved it today. But he has just been a bit unlucky and novicey and had a couple of falls in his last two outings,” said Smith. “Everything suited him today, the ground, trip and pace. He’s not very big but I think he’ll make a really smart chaser next year.”

Collier added: “He was handy, settled behind the leaders and then quickened in the back straight. He’s a real battler. He won his novice nicely and then made two mistakes in his last couple of runs but I think he would have won if he had not fallen at Newcastle.”



SEVENTH RACE PLACED TRAINER QUOTES
JOHN SMITH’S HANDICAP HURDLE (LISTED)


CONNECTIONS PLEASED WITH OUT OF LUCK I’M SO LUCKY


David Pipe, successful earlier in the day with Our Vic in the totesport Bowl Chase, was more than happy with I’m So Lucky’s second place finishing in the John Smith’s Handicap Hurdle, the concluding race on day one of the John Smith’s Grand National meeting.

“I’m So Lucky has run a great race. The handicapper put him up a lot - 14lb - for winning at Stratford a couple of runs ago. But he’s run his heart out on his first try over this trip of two and a half miles. He’s got the trip well.

“He arrived looking like he was going to win. He is a lovely horse and he’ll be a nicer horse when he goes over fences. Tom (Scudamore) was very pleased with him, he has given him a great ride. He’s done everything bar win really.

“I’m not sure about the rest of the season. I’ll have to speak to his owner, Roger Brookhouse, and we’ll see.”




PLACED QUOTES
RACE 7: JOHN SMITH'S HANDICAP HURDLE


BOSS COULD HEAD TO PUNCHESTOWN

Ring The Boss returned to hurdling after a couple of runs over fences, and picked up third-place prize money in the concluding John Smith's Handicap Hurdle.

The Philip Hobbs-trained seven-year-old ran in The Irish Independent Arkle Trophy on his previous outing, but when he finished unplaced there a short-term return to the smaller obstacles became the logical plan.

Hobbs said: "We didn't want to win a little race and spoil his novice status this late in the season - if he'd won the Arkle that would have been different, but it made sense to go back to hurdling for the time being.

"This was his first run over this trip and he stayed on really well. He went up the handicap when he was winning races [earlier in the season] so we have to be pleased with him.

"He's entered in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown on the Saturday of that meeting, and he may go there."


The Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase


WHIP BAN FOR O’REGAN

Denis O’Regan, the rider of the Lennon, the 5/1 favourite for the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap who finished fourth, has been handed a two-day ban for his use of the whip.

Having heard evidence from the jockey and viewed the recording of the race, the stewards found O’Regan guilty of using the whip with “excessive force” on the Howard Johnson-trained horse.

O’Regan has therefore been suspended from riding on April 17th and April 18th.

RECORD THURSDAY CROWD

There was a record crowd of 27,608 for the opening day of the 2008 John Smith’s Grand National meeting - up from 27,060 in 2007.

Julian Thick, Aintree’s Managing Director, commented: “We are thrilled to see a record crowd for the opening Thursday.

“We have seen the crowd for the opening day grow over 1,000 for the past two years and this is the perfect start to the 2008 John Smith’s Grand National meeting.”

TOTE TURNOVER UP

The on-course turnover for the Tote, official betting partner of the John Smith’s Grand National, was also up:

2008 - £1,123,660
2007 - £1,020,988

This represents an increase of over £102,000 (10.5 per cent).

Spokesman Damian Walker said: “These are excellent figures, we were up race by race throughout the day and on the back of this, we would hope to break through the magic £2 million turnover on Saturday, John Smith’s Grand National day.

GROUND UNCHANGED OVERNIGHT

The going will remain unchanged overnight at:

GOOD - on the Mildmay & Hurdle courses

GOOD TO SOFT, GOOD IN PLACES - on the Grand National course

Andrew Tulloch, Clerk of the Course and Director of Racing, commented: “The going will remain unchanged overnight and it is unlikely that we will be watering.

“Tomorrow is forecast to be cloudy with the chance of patchy light rain from early evening onwards.

“The forecast for Saturday is for slightly cooler temperatures, with brighter periods and the chance of a shower.”

Tomorrow, all bends will be moved in by three yards to provide fresh ground while the rails on the hurdles straight will also be moved in by the same distance.

LEADING JOCKEY STANDINGS AT THE END OF DAY ONE

Jockey 1st 2nd 3rd
Ruby Walsh 1 2 -
Tony McCoy 1 - 2
Aidan Coleman 1 - -
Tjade Collier 1 - -
Mr Josh Guerriero 1 - -
Timmy Murphy 1 - -
Robert Thornton 1 - -
Dominic Elsworth - 1 -
Brian Harding - 1 -
Jason Maguire - 1 -
Tom Scudamore - 1 -
Mr Sam Waley-Cohen - 1 -
Paul Carberry - - 1
Miss Jacqueline Coward - - 1
Richard Johnson - - 1
Tom O’Brien - - 1
Denis O’Regan - - 1


LEADING TRAINER STANDINGS AT THE END OF DAY ONE

Trainer 1st 2nd 3rd
Paul Nicholls 1 2 -
David Pipe 1 1 -
Alan King 1 - 1
Venetia Williams 1 - 1
Nicky Henderson 1 - -
Paul Jones 1 - -
Sue Smith 1 - -
Donald McCain jnr - 1 -
Mick Quinlan - 1 -
Nicky Richards - 1 -
Robert Waley-Cohen - 1 -
Philip Hobbs - - 2
Gordon Elliott IRE - - 1
Howard Johnson - - 1
Jonjo O’Neill - - 1


FIRST RACE RESULT

2.00pm JOHN SMITH’S GREAT FLOAT SOCIAL CLUB LIVERPOOL HURDLE (GRADE TWO)
£100,000 guaranteed, 3m 1/2f, For 4yo+ Weights 4yo 10st 8lb; 5yo+ 11st 2lb Penalties after September 30, 2006, a winner of a class 2 weight-for-age hurdle or class 1 handicap hurdle 4lb; of a class 1 weight-for-age hurdle 8lb (half penalties for wins achieved in novice hurdles in GB and Ireland) Allowances fillies and mares 7lb Entries 18 pay £450 Penalty value 1st £57,010, 2nd £21,390, 3rd £10,710, 4th £5,340, 5th £2,680, 6th £1,340

1 BLAZING BAILEY (Three Line Whip) Alan King 6-11-10b1 Robert Thornton 5/1
2 FAASEL (IRE) (Jim Ennis) Nicky Richards 7-11-2b Brian Harding 20/1
3 INGLIS DREVER (Andrea & Graham Wylie) Howard Johnson 9-11-10 Denis O'Regan 13/8f
4 LOUGH DERG (FR) (W Frewen) David Pipe 8-11-10 Tom Scudamore
5 BALLYFITZ (F Mills & W Mills) Nigel Twiston-Davies 8-11-6 Paddy Brennan
6 KICKS FOR FREE (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Paul Nicholls 7-11-6 Ruby Walsh
7 MILLENIUM ROYAL (FR) (J Vasicek) Francois Doumen FR 8-11-2 Christophe Pieux
8 FLIGHT LEADER (IRE) (John And Heather Snook) Colin Tizzard 8-11-6 Joe Tizzard
9 GASPARA (FR) (P McMahon) D Pipe 5-10-13tv Tony McCoy
10 KAWAGINO (IRE) (K Pike) Seamus Mullins 8-11-2 Wayne Kavanagh
11 CHIEF DAN GEORGE (IRE) (Maurice Chapman) James Moffatt 8-11-6p Brian Hughes

11 ran
Distances: 6, 3, 1, 2, 1/2, 1, 1/2, 9, 9, 22
Time: 6m 18.2s
Breeder: A Tombs
Breeding: b g Mister Baileys - Wannaplantatree (Niniski (USA))
Totes: Win: £6.40 Places: £2.10, £5.50, £1.30 Exacta: £154.30

Winning Trainer: ALAN KING Born: December 13, 1966 Based: Barbury Castle Stables, Wroughton, Wiltshire Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle (2008 Blazing Bailey), John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Stromness), John Smith’s Liverpool Hurdle (2002 Spendid), John Smith’s HBLB TBA Mares’ Only NH (2005 Senorita Rumbalita), John Smith’s Champion Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2006 Pangbourne) Cheltenham Festival Wins (10): Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Nenuphar Collonges), Peter O’Sullevan National Hunt Chase (2008 Old Benny), Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle (2008 Katchit), William Hill National Trophy Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2005 Penzance, 2007 Katchit), Arkle Challenge Trophy (2006 Voy Por Ustedes, 2007 My Way De Solzen), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes) Big Race Wins: Bula Hurdle (1999 Relkeel), Betfair Handicap Hurdle (2006 Halcon Genelardais), Desert Orchid Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), Dipper Novices’ Chase (2006 My Way De Solzen), Long Walk Hurdle (1999 Anzum, 2005 My Way De Solzen), Jim Ford Challenge Cup (2000 Spendid), Cleeve Hurdle (2004 Crystal d’Ainay), Kingmaker Novices’ Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), National Spirit Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Ryman The Stationer Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Katchit), Coral Welsh National (2006 Halcon Genelardais), Coral Future Champions Finale Juvenile Hurdle (2007 Francheok), Desert Orchid Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes) Number of Winners (1999/2000-2006/07): 27; 18; 34; 39; 47; 66; 63 Wins this Season: 113

Winning Jockey: Robert Thornton Date of birth: 14/7/78 Background: First sat on a horse aged eight, and started working for David Nicholson aged 14, becoming stable amateur in 1995. Crowned Champion Conditional in 1998, riding 71 winners, before joining Kim Bailey and turning professional in 1999. Now rides fro Alan King. Writes an article for the Gloucstershire Echo, and is nicknamed Choc because he used to always eat chocolate. Had his hair shaved for charity in June 2007, despite protests from his girlfriend First Winner Under Rules: K C’s Dancer (Cheltenham, October 25, 1995) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle (2008 Blazing Bailey), John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit), Martell Foxhunters’ Chase (Blue Cheek 1997), Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle (Shankar 1997), Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Stromness), Premier Convenience Stores Top Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Royal Shakespeare); John Smith’s Mares Only Nh Flat Race (2005 Senorita Rumbalita), John Smith’s Champion Standard Open NH Flat Race (2006 Pangbourne) Cheltenham Festival wins: (15) Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle (2008 Katchit), Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Captain Cee Bee), Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Chase (King Lucifer 1997), Pertemps Final (Pharanear 1997), William Hill Trophy Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning, 2005 Kelami), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2005 Penzance, 2007 Katchit), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Moulin Riche, 2008 Nenuphar Collonges), Irish Independent Arkle Trophy (2006 Voy Por Ustedes, 2007 My Way De Solzen), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2007Andreas) Big Race Wins: Adonis Juvenile Hurdle (2004 Trouble At Bay), Agfa Diamond Handicap Chase (2005 Innox), Agfa Hurdle (2005 Self Defense), Bula Hurdle (2003 Rigmarole), Cleeve Hurdle (2004 Crystal D’ainay, 2007 Blazing Bailey), Desert Orchid Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), Dipper Novices’ Chase (2006 My Way De Solzen), Coralpoker.com Kingmaker Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2005 Kadount, 2006 Voy Por Ustedes), National Spirit Hurdle (My Way De Solzen), Rendlesham Hurdle (1999 Pharanear, 2005 Crystal D’ainay), Ryman The Stationer Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Katchit), Sporting Index Chase (2002 Famfoni), Totesport Long Walk Hurdle (2005 My Way De Solzen), Victor Chandler Chase (1999 Call Equiname), Wragg & Co Finesse Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Moneytrain, 2007 Katchit), Desert Orchid Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes) Wins (1995/96-2006/07): 3; 30; 71; 37; 23; 40; 56; 50; 73; 97; 73; 99 Wins this Season: 97

SECOND RACE RESULT

2.35pm totesport BOWL CHASE (GRADE TWO)
£160,000 guaranteed, 3m 1f Mildmay Course, For 5yo+ Weights 11st Penalties after September 30, 2006, a winner of a class 3 weight for age chase or class 2 handicap chase 4lb; of a class 2 weight for age chase or a class 1 handicap chase 6lb; of a class 1 weight for age chase 10lb (half penalties for wins achieved in novice and beginners’ chases in GB and Ireland) Allowances mares 7lb Entries 11 pay £650 Penalty Value 1st £91,216, 2nd £34,224, 3rd £17,136, 4th £8,544, 5th £4,288

1 OUR VIC (IRE) (David Johnson) D Pipe 10-11-10b Timmy Murphy 9/1
2 KAUTO STAR (FR) (Clive Smith) Paul Nicholls 8-11-10t Ruby Walsh 4/7f
3 EXOTIC DANCER (FR) (Sir Robert Ogden) Jonjo O'Neill 8-11-10 Tony McCoy 6/1
4 MONET'S GARDEN (IRE) (David Yates) Nicky Richards 10-11-10 Tony Dobbin
5 GUNGADU (Paul Barber & Margaret Findlay) P F Nicholls 8-11-6 Sam Thomas

5 ran
Distances: nse, 14, dist, dist
Breeder: (Col. W Mullins)
Breeding: b g Old Vic - Shabra Princess (Bucksin (FR))
Totes: Win: £11.00 Places: £2.70, £1.30 Exacta: £17.20

Winning Trainer: DAVID PIPE Background: Son of Martin Pipe and former point-to-point trainer who took over at Pond House following the retirement of his father First Trainer’s Licence: May 2006 First winner under rules: Standin Obligation in the ‘Persimmon Homes Novices’ Chase’ at Kelso, May 9, 2006 - his first runner under rules Aintree Festival Wins: totesport Bowl (2008 Our Vic) Cheltenham Festival Wins (3): Ryanair Chase (2008 Our Vic), William Hill Trophy (2008 An Accordion), Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurde (2007 Gaspara) Big Race Wins: Charlie Hall Chase (2006 Our Vic), Ladbroke Handicap Hurdle (2006 Acambo), Game Spirit Chase (2007 Well Chief), VC Casino.com Gold Cup (2007 Madison Du Berlais), Boylesports.com Gold Cup (2007 Tamarinbleu), Boylesports.com International Hurdle (2007 Osana), BCG Long Walk Hurdle (2007 Lough Derg), Sky Bet Chase (2008 An Accordion), Sunderlands Imperial Cup (2008 Ashkasar) Wins (2006/07): 134 Wins This Season: 94

Winning Jockey: Timothy James Murphy Date of birth: August 20, 1974 Background: Father Jimmy was a leading amateur and manager of Newberry Stud. Timmy began working for Noel Chance during weekends when still at school, and rode for the trainer as an amateur, as well as for Mick Halford and Michael Hourigan. Opted to relocate to England after turning professional and began riding for Kim Bailey. Began riding for Paul Nicholls in 1998, before being overtaken as first choice jockey for the trainer by Joe Tizzard. Returned to Nicholls as number one rider in May 2001, but following a lengthy battle with alcoholism, Murphy was jailed for four months in July 2002 for assaulting an air stewardess. Returned to the saddle on his release in October 2002, and has enjoyed considerable success since. Became the retained jockey for leading owner David Johnson after the departure of Tony McCoy form the Martin Pipe stable. Has published critically acclaimed biography “Riding The Storm”. First winner: Gayloire (Kilmuckridge point to point, Co Wexford) General: Rode the last ever winner over jumps at Nottingham - Dominie (29/2/96) Aintree Festival Wins: Cordon Bleu Hcap Hurdle (1999 Kinnescash), Unwins Wine Group Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Al Eile), Baltika Beer Aintree Hurdle (2005 & 2007 Al Eile), Betfair Bowl (2006 Celestial Gold, 2008 Our Vic) Cheltenham Festival Wins: (7) Ryanair Chase (2008 Our Vic), Mildmay of Flete Chase (1997 Terao, 2004 Tikram), Vincent O’brien County Hcap Hurdle (1999 Sir Talbot, 2005 Fontanesi), Pertemps Final (2004 Creon), Irish Independent Arkle (2005 Contraband) Other major wins: Agfa Diamond Hcap Chase (1999 Clever Remark); Ascot totesport Chase (2006 Our Vic); Betfair Bowl (2006 Celestial Gold); Betfred Celebration Chase (2005 Well Chief); Charlie Hall Chase (2006 Our Vic); Commhoist Logistics Champion Hurdle Trial (2006 Al Eile); Ericsson Chase (2002 Beef Or Salmon); Faucets For Mira Showers Silver Trophy Chase (2006 Our Vic); Game Spirit Chase (2006 Don’t Be Shy, 2007 Well Chief); Hennessy Gold Cup (2004 Celestial Gold); Henry VIII Novices’ Chase (2004 Contraband, 2005 Racing Demon); Irish Hennessy Gold Cup (2003 Beef Or Salmon); John Smith’s Hurdle (2006 Redemption); Old Roan Chase (2005 Impek); Paddy Power Gold Cup (2004 Celestial Gold, 2005 Our Vic); Pierse Leopardstown Handicap Chase (2007 Point Barrow); Pillar Property Chase (1998 See More Business); Pricewaterhousecoopers Ascot Hurdle (1998 Juyush); Rehearsal Chase (1998 See More Business); Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase (2004 Our Vic); Rising Stars Novices’ Chase (2005 Celtic Son); Rossington Main Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Nous Voila); Sunderlands Imperial Cup (2005 Medison); Swinton Handicap Hurdle (2003 Macs Joy); Tolworth Hurdle (2005 Marcel); Fraser Steele HBLB Chase (2007 Dempsey); Victor Chandler Chase (2005 Well Chief); woodiesdiy.com Christmas Hurdle (2006 Celestial Wave), bewleyshotels.com December Festival Hurdle (2007 Al Eile) Number of Wins (1995/96-2006/2007): 26; 28; 60; 73; 64; 54; 98; 42; 57; 143; 87; 98 Wins This Season: 61

THIRD RACE RESULT

3.10pm JOHN SMITH'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O NOVICES' HURDLE (GRADE ONE)
£130,000 guaranteed, 2m ½, For 4yo Weights 11st Allowances fillies 7lb Entries 20 pay £600 Penalty Value 1st £74,113, 2nd £27,807, 3rd £13,923, 4th £6,942, 5th £3,484, 6th £1,742

1 BINOCULAR (FR) (J P McManus) Nicky Henderson 4-11-0 Tony McCoy 11/8f
2 CELESTIAL HALO (IRE) (The Stewart Family) Paul Nicholls 4-11-0 Ruby Walsh 7/4
3 HARPER VALLEY (IRE) (James Morrow) Gordon Elliott IRE 4-11-0tb Paul Carberry 7/1
4 STAR OF ANGELS (Robert Brookhouse) David Pipe 4-11-0b Tom Scudamore
5 FIRST BUDDY (Bill Gredley) Alan Swinbank 4-11-0 Brian Hughes
6 LUPANAR (IRE) (R Kiernan) Gary Moore 4-11-0 Mattie Batchelor
F last PAGAN STARPRINCESS (Richard Phizaclea) George Moore 4-10-7 Barry Keniry
P CHORD (John Glews & Peter Knight) Donald McCain Jnr 4-11-0 Jason Maguire
P QUILVER TATOU (FR) (Mountgrange Stud) Charlie Mann 4-11-0 Noel Fehily
P MAKE HASTE (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Venetia Williams 4-11-0 SamThomas

10 ran
Distances: 7, 13, 17, 12, 3 1/4
Breeder: Elie Lellouche
Breeding: b g Enrique - Bleu Ciel Et Blanc (FR) (Pistolet Bleu (FR))
Totes: Win: £2.40 Places: £1.10, £1.20 Exacta: £2.00

Winning Trainer: NICHOLAS (NICKY) JOHN HENDERSON Based: Seven Barrows, Lambourn, Hungerford, Berkshire Date of birth:10/12/50 Date of first licence: July (1978) Previous Occupation/Apprenticeship: Amateur jockey, assistant to Fred Winter 1975-78 Aintree Festival wins: John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4yo Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Binocular), John Smith’s FoX Hunter’s Chase (2007 Scots Grey), betafir.com Handicap Chase (1985 Green Bramble, 2004 Lord Of The River), John Smith’s Champion NH Flat Race (1987 Rustle), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1988 Rustle), John Smith’s Melling Chase (1992 Remittance Man), John Smith’s Topham Chase (1990 Wont Be Gone Long, 2006 Liberthine), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1991 Sparkling Flame, 2003 Irish Hussar), John Smith’s Extra Smooth H’cap Hurdle (1995 Thinking Twice) Cheltenham Festival wins (31): County (1997 Barna Boy, 1993 Thumbs Up), Kim Muir (1990 Master Bob, 2002 The Bushkeeper, 2005 Juveigneur), Mildmay (1985,1986 The Tsarevich, 2005 Liberthine), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (1989 Rustle, 2000 Bacchanal), Cathcart (1994 Raymylette, 1990 Brown Windsor, 1999 and 2000 Stormyfairweather), Supreme Novices H (1986 River Ceiriog, 1992 Flown), Queen Mother (1992 Remittance Man), Arkle (1991 Remittance Man, 1993 Travado, 2000 Tiutchev), Smurfit Champion Hurdle (1985, 1986, 1987 See You Then),Triumph (1985 First Bout, 1987 Alone Success, 1999 Katarino), William Hill National Hunt H’cap Chase (2000 Marlborough), Royal & SunAlliance Chase (2005 Trabolgan), Ryanair Chase (2006 Fondmort), Racing Post Plate (2006 Non So), Grand Annual Chase (2006 Greenhope) Other major wins include: Haldon Gold Cup Chase (1993/94/95 Travado), First National Bank Gold Cup (1994 Raymylette, 2003 Iris Royal), Peterborough Chase (1992 Remittance Man, 1993 & 1995 Travado), Feltham Novices’ Chase (1991 Mutare, 1997 Fiddling The Facts), Victor Chandler Chase (1996 Big Matt, 2004 Isio, 2006 Tysou), Agfa Diamond Chase (1996 Amtrak Express), Scottish Champion Hurdle (1986 River Ceiriog), BMW Handicap Chase (1998 Big Matt), West Yorkshire Hurdle (1999 Silver Wedge), Gerry Feilden Hurdle (1999 Bacchanal), Totesport Gold Trophy Hcap Hurdle (1998 Sharpical, 2000 and 2004 Geos, 2001 Landing Light), Paddy Power Gold Cup (2003 Fondmort), Racing Post Chase (2004 Marlborough), Vodafone Gold Cup (2004 Isio), Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (2005 Trabolgan) Number of Winners (1982/83-2006/07): 40, 43, 40, 46, 67, 40, 43, 41, 49, 52, 53, 48, 45, 47, 58, 54, 73, 67, 81, 92, 69, 79; 53; 85; 74; Wins this Season: 74

Winning Jockey: Anthony Peter McCoy Date of Birth: 04/05/74 Background: Born in Antrim, Northern Ireland, Tony is the son of Peader, breeder of Thumbs Up. He began his racing education with Billy Rock in 1987 before becoming apprentice to Jim Bolger two years later. He moved to Britain in 1994 to work for Toby Balding, and was champion conditional rider in the 1994-95 season with 74 wins. Became champion jockey for the first time the next year, with 175 victories, 43 ahead of nearest challenger David Bridgewater. Started riding for Martin Pipe following the trainer’s split with Richard Dunwoody, and the pair formed a formidable partnership. Beat Gordon Richards’ record for winners in a season (269) on April 2, 2002, before going on to 289 victories in that season. Surpassed Richard Dunwoody’s record for number of jump winners later that year, and has been champion jockey every year for the past 12 seasons. First Winner: Thurles, 26/03/92, Legal Steps (First winner in Britain: 07/09/94, Exeter, Chickabiddy) Apprenticeship: Four years with Jim Bolger. Cheltenham Festival Wins: (20) Royal & SunAlliance Chase (2008 Alberta’s Run), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase (1996 Kibreet, 1998 Edredon Bleu), Irish Independent Arkle Chase (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle (1997 Make A Stand, 2006 Brave Inca), Totesport 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), Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Hors La Loi III), Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup Hcap Chase (1999 Majadou), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2000 Edredon Bleu), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2003 Liberman), Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase (2006 Reveillez), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman) Leading Rider at The Festival: 1997 (3), 1998 (5). Other major wins: AIG Europe Champion Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Ballymore Properties “Classic” Nov Hdle (2007 Wichita Lineman), Cleeve Hurdle (2003 Classified), Challow Hurdle (2001 Classified, 2006 Wichita Lineman), December Festival Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), King George VI Chase (2002 Best Mate), Stan James Christmas Hurdle (2007 Straw Bear) Aintree Festival Wins: Betfair.com Handicap Chase (2007 Reveillez), Mumm Melling Chase (1996 Viking Flagship), John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4yo Hurdle (1996 Zabadi, 1999 Hors La Loi III, 2008 Binocular), Barton & Guestier Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Fataliste), John Smith’s Top Novices Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), John Hughes Trophy Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Northern Starlight), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1998 Boss Doyle, 2005 Like-A-Butterfly), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Unsinkable Boxer, 2006 Black Jack Ketchum), Martell Aintree Hurdle (1998 Pridwell), Martell Cognac Handicap Hurdle (1996 Top Spin, 2003 Carlovent) John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle (2006 Refinement), Chivas Regal Novices’ Hcap Chase (1999 Royal Predica), John Smith’s Red Rum Handicap Chase (2003 Golden Alpha, 2005 Fota Island), Betfair Bowl Chase (2004 Tiutchev, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (2004 Well Chief), John Smith’s No Nonsense Handicap Hurdle (2005 Genghis), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2006 Foreman) Winners 1994/5-2006/07: 74; 175; 189; 253; 186; 245; 191; 289; 257; 209; 199; 178; 184; Wins this season: 135

FOURTH RACE RESULT

3.45pm JOHN SMITH'S FOX HUNTERS' CHASE
£40,000 guaranteed, 2m 5 1/2f, Grand National Course, For 6yo+ which hold a hunters’ chase certificate issued during the current season by any recognised hunt and which, between December 1, 2006 and March 27, 2008 (inclusive), have won either a chase in GB/Ireland or an open point-to-point (ie gentlemans, ladies and mixed open race) in GB/Ire. Weights 12st Allowances mares 7lb Entries n29 pay £200 Penalty Value 1st £24,008, 2nd £7,500, 3rd £3,748, 4th £1,876, 5th £936, 6th £472

1 CHRISTY BEAMISH (IRE) (M Mann) Paul Jones 11-12-0 Mr Josh Guerriero 6/1
2 KATARINO (FR) (Robert Waley-Cohen) Robert Waley-Cohen 13-12-0 Mr Sam Waley-Cohen 13/2
3 HOLY JOE (FR) (J Scarisbrick) Venetia Williams 11-12-0 Miss Jacqueline Coward 25/1
4 SONEVAFUSHI (FR) (Tom Bannister) C Coward 10-12-0 Mr Oliver Greenall 11/1
5 THISTHATANDTOTHER (IRE) (Graham Roach) Paul Nicholls 12-12-0 Mr Nick Scholfield 3/1f
6 ESKIMO JACK (IRE) (Yda Morgan) Miss Gillian Kerr 12-12-0 Mr Ran Morgan
7 WHERE NOW (IRE) (Karl Casey Partnership) John Queally IRE 12-12-0 Miss Nina Carberry
8 ARCTIC TIMES (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Eugene O'Sullivan IRE 12-12-0 Mr Damian Murphy
9 WHITENZO (FR) (Sylvia Mizel) Paul Nicholls 12-12-0 Mr Colman Sweeney
10 FIORI (Wilson Imports I) Annabelle Armitage 12-12-0 Mr David Thomas
11 YOUNOWHAT (IRE) (Lindsay Woods) Norman Cassidy IRE 14-12-0 Miss Caroline Woods
12 ADVENTINO (I Hooper) Ian Hooper 13-12-0 Mr Kyle Yates
F3 JACKSONVILLE (FR) (Vicky Simpson) Vicky Simpson 11-12-0 Miss Vicky Simpson
U3 ENCORE CADOUDAL (FR) (H Thompson) Tina Jackson 10-12-0 Miss Tina Jackson
F8 BUCKBY LANE (Mrs P Starkey) Jane Starkey 12-12-0 Miss Polly Gundry
F10 MOORAMANA (Karen Ratcliffe) Karen Ratcliffe 9-12-0 Miss Freya Hartley
F10 VISCOUNT BANKES (Rosemary Gasson) Rosemary Gasson 10-12-0 Miss Hannah Watson
U14 SCOTS GREY (Henry Ponsonby) Nicky Henderson 13-12-0 Mr Jamie Snowden
P BEF 2 0UT ALVINO (Cherry Jones) Ian Emes 11-12-0 Mr Richard Burton

19 ran
No-runner: 1 Adolphus (vet certificate)
Distances: 9, 10, 1/2, 14, 1 1/2, 7, 2 3/4, 17, dist, dist, 19
Time: 5m 41.1s
Breeder: Christy Beamish
Breeding: Jolly Jake (NZ) - Ballinatona Bridge (Black Minstrel)
Totes: Win: £7.50 Places: £2.90, £2.70, £5.60 Exacta: £40.60

Winning Trainer: Paul Jones Based: Burnhill Green, Staffordshire Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase (2008 Christy Beamish) Number of wins (2003/04-2006/07): 2, 0, 1, 0 Wins this season: 2

Winning Jockey: Josh Guerriero Born: January 22, 1989 Based: c/o Philip Hobbs Sandhill, Bilbrook, Minehead, Somerset Background: Champion novices’ male point-to-point rider in 2006. Born in Italy, of an English mother and Italian father, he moved to Cumbria at the age of nine. His father, who is in the restaurant business, lives in Florence and his mother lives in Penrith. Was recommended to Philip Hobbs by Tony Dobbin. Broke his collarbone in a point-to-point fall in February 2007 but has returned in great form Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Fox Hunters’ Chase (2008 Christy Beamish), John Smith’s Novices’ Handicap Chase (2007 Private Be) First Winner Under Rules: Private Be, John Smith’s Novices’ Handicap Chase, April 14, 2007 Wins (2006/07): 1 Wins This Season: 14



FIFTH RACE RESULT

4.20pm SILVER CROSS PRAMS RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE (GRADE THREE)
£80,000 guaranteed, 2m Mildmay, For 5yo+ Minimum Weight 10st Penalties after March 22, a winner of a chase 4lb (no penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb) Andreas’s Handicap Mark 155 Entries 26 pay £350 Penalty Value 1st £45,608, 2nd £17,112, 3rd £8,568, 4th £4,272, 5th £2,144, 6th £1,072

1 STAN (NZ) (Paul Beck) Venetia Williams 9-9-9 Aidan Coleman (5) 25/1
2 DEV (IRE) (Liam Mulryan) Mick Quinlan 8-10-0 Dominic Elsworth 14/1
3 LORD HENRY (IRE) (Karola Vann) Philip Hobbs 9-11-4 Richard Johnson 33/1
4 LENNON (IRE) (Andrea & Graham Wylie) Howard Johnson 8-11-9 Denis O'Regan 5/1f
5 MAGIC SKY (FR) (Thehorseracingclub.com Partnership) Milton Harris 8-10-1b1 Charlie Poste (3)
6 ANDREAS (FR) (Trevor Hemmings) Paul Nicholls 8-11-12 Ruby Walsh
7 TRAMANTANO (Raymond Mould) Nigel Twiston-Davies 9-10-0 Paddy Brennan
8 MARCEL (FR) (David Johnson) Peter Monteith 8-10-2 Timmy Murphy
9 BAMBI DE L'ORME (FR) (Mr & Mrs John Poynton) Ian Williams 9-10-81 Michael Murphy (7)
10 GREENHOPE (IRE) (Lynn Wilson, Giles Wilson & Martin Landau) Nicky Henderson 10-10-7 Andrew Tinkler
11 WANANGO (GER) (J P McManus) Tommy Stack IRE 7-11-11 Tony McCoy
12 LESLINGTAYLOR (IRE) (Marie Taylor) John Quinn 6-10-11 Dougie Costello
13 CALATAGAN (IRE) (Mr & Mrs J Davenport) Malcolm Jefferson 9-11-4 Tom Dreaper
14 SAINTSAIRE (FR) (The Stewart Family) Paul Nicholls 9-10-9 Mr Nick Scholfield (5)
15 DESERT QUEST (IRE) (Horses First Racing Limited) Jonathan Gask 8-10-13b Sam Thomas
F last ELA RE (Keith Nicholson) Sue Smith 9-9-10 Tjade Collier (5)
P FOUR CHIMNEYS (IRE) (T O’Hogan) Philip Rothwell IRE 7-9-9 Shane Jackson (5)
P ALMAYDAN (George Brookes & Family) Richard Lee 10-10-6b Robert Thornton

18 ran
Distances: 2, 2, 4 1/2, nk, 5, 2 3/4, sh, 5, 5, 6, nse, 4 1/2, dist, 2 3/4
Breeder: Mrs M Davies
Breeding: b g Super Imposing (NZ) - Take Care (NZ) (Wham (AUS))
Totes: Win: £33.00 Places: £6.90, £3.90, £6.20, £1.80 Exacta: £415.40

Winning Trainer: VENETIA MARY WILLIAMS Trains at Aramstone, Kings Caple, Hereford Date of birth: May 10, 1960 Riding career: 10 NH winners as an amateur 1986-88 Date of first trainer’s licence: 1995, previously assistant John Edwards (1986-93), Martin Pipe (1993-4), six months with Colin Hayes (Australia), J Fulton (USA) and Barry Hillls Cheltenham Festival wins (3): Grand Annual Challenge Cup H’cap Chase (2000 Samakaan), Coral Cup (2005 Idole First), Racing Post Plate (2007 Idole First) Aintree Festival Winners: Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase (2008 Stan), betfair.com Handicap Chase (1999 Edelweis Du Moulin), Citroen C4 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2001 Montalcino), John Smith’s Novices’ Handicap Chase (2002 Spring Margot), John Smith’s Top Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Limerick Boy), John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle (2004 His Nibs) John Smith’s Novices’ Chase (2006 Mon Mome) Big race wins: Badger Beer Chase (1998 Teeton Mill), Hennessy Gold Cup (1998 Teeton Mill), King George VI Chase (1998 Teeton Mill), Mitsubishi Shogun Ascot Chase (1999 Teeton Mill), Cleeve Hurdle (1999, 2000, 2001 Lady Rebecca), Peter Marsh Limited Hcp Chase (1999 General Wolfe, 2007 The Outlier), Thomas Pink Gold Cup Handicap Chase (1999 The Outback Way), First National Bank Gold Cup Handicap Chase (1999 Nordance Prince), Unicorn Handicap Chase (2000 The Outback Way), Towton Novice Chase (2000 Arctic Camper), Victor Chandler Handicap Chase (2000 Nordance Prince), Haldon Gold Cup H’cap Chase (2000 Bellator), Ladbroke Hurdle (2003 Thesis), Eider Chase (2007 Nil Desperandum) Other details: Won Group Three Ormonde Stakes (1998 Stretarez) with her first runner on the Flat Number of Winners (1996/6-2006/07): 7, 33, 45, 74, 74, 63, 55, 78, 89, 80, 77, 76; Wins this Season: 63

Winning Jockey: Aidan Coleman Age: 19 Based: c/o Venetia Williams, Aramstone, Kings Caple, Hereford Agent: Sam Stronge Background: Raised in Cork where his parents are both teachers. His brother Kevin Coleman won the 2007 Galway Plate. Rode 100 winners on the Irish pony racing circuit. Spent a season with Henrietta Knight before joining Venetia Williams. Has his first ride in the John Smith’s Grand National aboard Mon Mome on Saturday. Won on his first ride at Aintree, Stan, in the Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase. First Winner: Tashkandi, Uttoxeter, October 17, 2007 Aintree Festival Wins: Silver Cross Prams Red Rum Handicap Chase (2008 Stan) Wins this season: 22


SIXTH RACE RESULT

4.55pm CITROEN C5 MERSEY NOVICES' HURDLE (GRADE TWO)
£60,000 guaranteed, 2m 4f, For 4yo+ weights 4yo 10st 7lb; 5yo_ 11st Penalties a winner of a class 3 hurdle 3lb; of a class 2 hurdle 5lb; of a class 1 hurdle 8lb Allowances fillies and mares 7lb Entries 29 pay £275 Penalty Value 1st £34,206, 2nd £12,834, 3rd £6,426, 4th £3,204, 5th £1,608, 6th £804

1 ELUSIVE DREAM (Margaret Findlay) Paul Nicholls 7-11-8t Ruby Walsh 7/2
2 WHITEOAK (IRE) (Brendan Richardson) Donald McCain Jnr 5-11-1 Jason Maguire 4/1
3 FRANCHOEK (IRE) (J P McManus) Alan King 4-11-1 Tony McCoy 9/4f
4 GROUP CAPTAIN (Peter Webb) Alan King 6-11-8 Robert Thornton
5 LAREDO SOUND (IRE) (Jared Sullivan & Robert Tompkins) Charlie Mann 6-11-0 Noel Fehily
6 RAZOR ROYALE (IRE) (Colin Cornes) Nigel Twiston-Davies 6-11-5t Paddy Brennan
7 LIGHTNING STRIKE (GER) (John Nicholls (Trading) Ltd) Venetia Williams 5-11-8 Sam Thomas
8 KEALSHORE BOY (Andrea & Graham Wylie) Howard Johnson 5-11-0 Denis O'Regan

8 ran
Distances: 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 13, 8, 3, 29, dist
Breeder: Cheveley Park Stud Ltd
Breeding: b g Rainbow Quest (USA) - Dance A Dream (Sadler’s Wells (USA))
Totes: Win: £4.60 Places: £1.60, £1.60, £1.40 Exacta:£19.30

Winning Trainer: PAUL NICHOLLS Date of birth: 17/05/62 Based: Heighes House, Manor Farm Stables, Ditcheat, Shepton Mallet, Somerset Date of first trainer’s licence: 01/11/91 Previous Occupation: Professional jockey 1980-89. Rode 130 winners including Hennessy Gold Cup (1986 & 87), Irish Gold Cup (1988), Welsh Grand National (1987) Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2002 Armaturk, 2003 Le Roi Miguel, 2007 Twist Magic), John Smith’s Melling Chase (2001 Fadalko), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2006 Star De Mohaison), Citroen C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Natal, 2008 Elusive Dream)), John Smith’s Fox Hunter Chase (2002 Torduff Express), Betfair Bowl (2000 See More Business) Cheltenham Festival Wins (20): JCB Triumph Hurdle (2008 Celestial Halo), Irish Independent Arkle Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2003 Azertyuiop), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (1999 Call Equiname, 2004 Azertyuiop, 2008 Master Minded), totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup (1999 See More Business, 2007 Kauto Star, 2008 Denman), Christie’s Foxhunter Chase (2004 Earthmover, 2005 Sleeping Night), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2004 St Pirran, 2007 Andreas), County Hurdle (2004 Sporazene, 2006 Desert Quest), Ryanair Chase (2005 Thisthatandtother, 2007 Taranis), Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Noland), Royal & SunAlliance Chase (2006 Star De Mohaison, 2007 Denman) Other big race wins: Aon Chase (2000 See More Business, 2001 Shotgun Willy, 2003 Valley Henry, 2007 Kauto Star, 2008 Denman), Betfair Chase (2006 Kauto Star), Betfred Gold Cup (2001 & 2003 Ad Hoc), Bula Hurdle (2003 Rigmarole), Challow Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Cornish Rebel, 2006 Denman), Charlie Hall Chase (1999 and 2000 See More Business), Greatwood Hurdle (2003 Rigmarole), Independent Newspaper Novices’ Chase (1995 Captain Khedive, 1999 Fadalko, 2002 Azertyuiop, 2003 Thisthatandtother), King George VI Chase (1997 & 1999 See More Business, 2006 & 2007 Kauto Star), Scottish Champion Hcap Hurdle (1999 Fadalko), Rehearsal Chase (1996 Belmont King, 1997 and 1998 See More Business), Scottish Grand National (1997 Belmont King), Tingle Creek Chase (2005 Kauto Star, 2007 Twist Magic), Tolworth Hurdle (2003 Thisthatandtother, 2006 Noland, 2007 Silverburn), totesport.com becher Chase (2006 Eurotrek), Coral Welsh National (2004 Silver Birch, 2005 L’Aventure), William Hill Haldon Gold Cup Chase (1998 Lake Kariba, 1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2004 Azertyuiop), Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase (2007 Gungadu), Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup (2007 Neptune Collognes), Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (2007 Denman), Lexus Chase (2007 Denman) 1000th Domestic Winner: Noble Action (Bumper, Folkestone, November 15, 2004) First Trainer to Saddle Six Winners on One Card: Saturday, January 21, 2006, at Wincanton Number of Winners (1992/03-2006/07): 20; 29; 28; 53; 56; 82; 110; 71; 83; 136; 152; 127; 152; 148; 124 Wins this Season: 131


Winning Jockey: Ruby Walsh Born: May 14, 1979 Background: Ruby (short for Rupert) inherited his name from his grandfather, who was a trainer. He became champion amateur in Ireland in the 1996-97 season, and retained his title the following year, before becoming champion Irish jockey five times, including his debut season. Ruby won the Grand National for his father Ted in 2000 with Papillon, and he is the only current jockey to have ridden the winner of all four nationals. He has broken both his legs, his wrist and his hip whilst race-riding. In Ireland, Ruby mainly rides for Willy Mullins, while he is number one jockey for champion trainer Paul Nicholls in Britain. First Winner: Siren Song, Gowran Park, July 25, 1995 Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Grand National (2000 Papillon (His first National ride), 2005 Hedgehunter), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2003 Le Roi Miguel, 2007 Twist Magic), Baltika Beer Aintree Hurdle (2002 Ilnamar, 2006 Asian Maze), John Smith’s Anniversary 4-y-o Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Le Duc), Citroen C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Garde Champetre, 2006 Natal, 2008 Elusive Dream) Cheltenham Festival Wins (17): Ballymore Properties Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Fiveforthree), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2008 Celestial Halo), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (1998 Alexander Banquet, 2005 Missed That), Mildmay Of Flete (2002 Blowing Wind), Irish Independent Arkle (2003 Azertyuiop), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2004 Azertyuiop, 2008 Master Minded), Grand Annual (2004 St Pirran), County Hurdle (2004 Sporazene, 2006 Desert Quest), Ryanair Chase (2005 Thisthatandtother, 2007 Taranis) Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Noland), William Hill Trophy (2006 Dun Doire), Royal & SunAlliance Chase (2007 Denman), totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup (2007 Kauto Star) Leading Rider at The Festival: 2004 (3), 2006 (3). Other Big Race Wins: Betfair Chase (2006 Kauto Star), Betfred Gold Cup (2003 Ad Hoc); Stan James Christmas Hurdle (2005 Feathard Lady); December Festival Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Heineken Gold Cup (1999 Imperial Call, 2000 Commanche Court); Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (2003 Strong Flow); Irish Grand National (2000 Commanche Court, 2005 Numbersixvalverde); King George VI Chase (2006 & 2007 Kauto Star); Tingle Creek Trophy (2002 Cenkos, 2006 Kauto Star); Welsh National (2004 Silver Birch), Lexus Chase (2007 Denman) Number of Wins in Britain (1998/99-2006/07): 1; 1; 5; 13; 77; 62; 81; 69; 73 Other Details: Son of Ted Walsh, former leading Irish amateur rider who is now a trainer and broadcaster in Ireland. Divides his time riding for Paul Nicholls in Britain and Willie Mullins in Ireland. Number of Wins in Britain (1998/99-2006/07): 1; 1; 5; 13; 77; 62; 81; 69; 73 Wins in Britain This Season: 57


SEVENTH RACE RESULT

5.30pm JOHN SMITH'S HANDICAP HURDLE (LISTED)
£60,000 guaranteed, 2m 4f, For 4yo+ Weights raised 9lb Minimum weight 10st Penalties after March 22, a winner of a hurdle 4lb Trouble At Bay’s Handicap Mark 143 Entries 69 pay £275 Penalty Value 1st £34,206, 2nd £12,834, 3rd £6,426, 4th £3,204, 5th £1,608, 6th £804

1 AURORAS ENCORE (IRE) (Alicia Skene & W Skene) Sue Smith 6-10-7 Tjade Collier (5) 50/1
2 I'M SO LUCKY (S Brookhouse) David Pipe 6-11-2t Tom Scudamore 16/1
3 RING THE BOSS (IRE) (Alan Peterson) Philip Hobbs 7-11-5 Tom O'Brien 25/1
4 PACHA D'OUDAIRIES (FR) (S Botham) Paul Nicholls 5-9-12 Mr Nick Scholfield (5) 20/1
5 SHATABDI (IRE) (Robert Waley-Cohen) Nicky Henderson 6-10-8 Mr Sam Waley-Cohen (7)
6 TROUBLE AT BAY (IRE) (Nigel Bunter) Alan King 8-11-05 Mr Clive Huxley (7)
7 JUNIOR (Paul Green) Alan King 5-11-8b Robert Thornton
8 GUSTAVO (Gay & Peter Hartley) Venetia Williams 7-10-11 Sam Thomas
9 TOT O'WHISKEY (Boundary Garage (Bury) Ltd) Malcolm Jefferson 7-10-9 Fergus King
10 PALOMAR (USA) (Sir Robert Ogden) Nicky Richards 6-10-5 Fearghal Davis (5)
11 SPORAZENE (IRE) (Ged Mason) Paul Nicholls 9-11-5 Ruby Walsh
12 DOUBLE VODKA (IRE) (Steve Wilson) Chris Grant 7-10-12 Denis O'Regan
13 GLACIAL SUNSET (IRE) (George Ward) David Arbuthnot 13-10-11 Seamus Durack
14 KINGSCAPE (IRE) (J P McManus) James Fanshawe 5-10-7 Tony McCoy
15 HI DANCER (Middleham Park Racing & R Tocher) Pat Haslam 5-9-13 Michael Murphy (7)
16 PRINCE ARY (A Black) David Pipe 5-10-2 Johnny Farrelly (5)
17 PEACOCK (FR) (Raymond Mould) Nigel Twiston-Davies 5-10-13 Paddy Brennan 5/1f
18 GABIER (B Siddle & B Haynes) Gary Moore 5-10-4 Timmy Murphy
19 COUNTY ZEN (FR) (Andrew Cohen) Philip Hobbs 5-11-3 Richard Johnson
20 MOHAYER (IRE) (G & P Barker Ltd/Globe Engineering) Donald McCain Jnr 6-10-10 J M Maguire
P MISTER BENEDICTINE (Noel Horan) Brendan Duke 5-10-6 Noel Fehily

21 ran
Non-runner: 5 Annie’s Answer (vet certificate)
Distances: 2 1/2, 1, 4, nk, 3 1/4, hd, 1/2, 3/4, 1 1/2, 1 3/4, 1/2, 1, 2 1/4, 9, 1 1/4, 9, 1/2, 2 3/4, dist
Breeder: Mountarmstrong Stud
Breeding: b g Second Empire (IRE) - Sama Veda (IRE)
Totes: Win: £76.60 Places: £12.60, £2.60, £3.00, £5.20 Exacta: £1,995.70

Winning Trainer: SUE SMITH Married: to Harvey Smith Based: Craiglands Farm, Bingley, West Yorkshire First Cheltenham Festival Winner: Mister McGoldrick, Racing Post Plate, March 13, 2008 Cheltenham Festival Wins (1): Racing Post Plate (2008 Mister McGoldrick) Aintree Wins Include: John Smith’s Handicap Hurdle (2008 Auroras Encore), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2004 Simply Supreme) Major wins: Becher Chase (2002 Ardent Scout), Castleford Chase (2004 (run 05) and 2005 Mister McGoldrick), Cleeve Hurdle (2005 Patriarch Express), De Vere Gold Cup Hcap Chase (2000 The Last Fling), Peter Marsh Handicap Chase (2000 The Last Fling), Rendlesham Hurdle (2006 Royal Emperor), Rossington Main Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Tonoco), Tommy Whittle Chase (2004 Chives), Unicoin Hcap Chase (1999 Eirespray), Warwickshire Gold Cup (2002 The Last Fling), John Smith’s Midland Grand National (2008 Himilayan Trail) Number of Winners (1995/96-2006/07): 25; 42; 52; 38; 39; 33; 27; 74; 69; 60; 60; 51 Wins this Season: 44

Winning Jockey: Collier, Tjade Age: 20 Based: c/o Sue Smith, Craiglands Farm, High Eldwick, Bingley, West Yorkshire Background: Born and raised in Holland and moved to Britain at 16. Rode in point-to-points and Arab races before securing his first Flat victory at the third attempt, aged 18. First Winner in Britain (Flat): Vanbrugh, Southwell, February 3, 2005 First Jumps Win in Britain: Rich Song, Market Rasen, June 30, 2006 First Win as a Professional: Flake, Haydock, October 19, 2006 Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Handicap Hurdle (2008 Aurora’s Encore) Big Race Wins: John Smith’s Midland Grand National (2008 Himalayan Trail) Wins in 2006/07: 14 Wins This Season: 21

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