Aintree hero dreaming of more

YOU could be forgiven for thinking One For Arthur had won last Saturday’s Grand National.

His jockey Derek Fox – who partners leading contender Big River for boss Lucinda Russell in the Coral Scottish Grand National at Ayr today – is still buzzing.

The 2017 Aintree hero, who had failed to complete in two outings this winter after missing the whole of last season with a damaged tendon, thrilled his rider, trainer and owners – the Two Golf Widows – with a sixth-placed finish behind to Tiger Roll.

“It’s never easy, coming back from an injury, and Lucinda did a great job,” reflects Fox (with the trainer above).

“Two out, I thought he had every chance and it was a brilliant run – I couldn’t be happier with him. He’s an amazing horse – the horse of a lifetime – and the dream would be to get him back there next year.”

It is now two years and five days since Sligo-born Fox, having taken his first ride in the race, found himself in the limelight after One For Arthur’s triumph on Merseyside. However, although National glory changes a jockey’s life it doesn’t change a career. News coverage won’t stand still. Sports editors have shifted their focus from Aintree to Augusta, so time in the lights – Fox news – is fleeting.

“It’s something that you can say you’ve done, and it was an unbelievable feeling at the time,” recalls the 26-year-old. “The National is the most iconic race in the calendar, and you’d be in some random place and someone would notice you and ask for a photo.

“It’s an incredible race – something that will give you a bit of confidence