Smith calms O’Leary spat

THE British Horseracing Authority’s senior handicapper has said his feud with Michael O’Leary won’t impact on the Randox Health Grand National weights — which are unveiled tonight. Phil Smith has been accused by the Ryanair boss of treating his horses harshly and O’Leary has threatened to withdraw the best of his 11 entries if he feels he has been hit too hard in the weights. Asked if he felt intimidated, Smith said: ‘No. I get on with the job, take each horse on its merits and give a weight I think gives it a chance.’