LODGE TO KEEP ON TRUCKING
TRUCKERS LODGE can make history by becoming the first horse to win today’s Marston’s Grand National twice at Uttoxeter.
Since last year’s victory TRUCKERS LODGE (3.35, nb, ITV4) has failed to get his head in front but hinted he is on the way back after finishing seventh behind Secret Reprieve in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow in January.
The handicapper has not done him any favours running off a 12lb higher mark than last year.
But he did win the race by 18 lengths from Captain Drake (now 13lb better off).
Lorcan Williams, in the saddle last season, will help his cause with his 3lb allowance. The consistent Two Amigos, runner-up in that Welsh
(Chris Goulding) National, can make the place money. Take course and distance winner SAINT DALINA (1.50, ITV) to again show her fondness for the track.
Since her success at the course in December the mare has posted some excellent performances in defeat.
Last month’s Sandown impressive winner ECLAIR SURF (2.25, treble, ITV) had plenty in reserve when beating Éclair de Guye, the winner of his previous race.
His 4lb higher mark will not stop this progressive individual from achieving more success.
The wayward ROCKADENN (3.00, nap, ITV) put in an excellent performance when beating his decent stablemate Pic D’Orhy at
Taunton last month. A repeat of that running will make him a hard nut to crack.
His trainer Paul Nicholls also has the answer with DIESE DES BIEFFES (2.40, ITV4) at Kempton.
He will appreciate the return to hurdles. The capable 7lb-claiming Angus Cheleda will help this smart individual capture his best form.
Nicholls can complete a double at the track with MY WAY (3.15, ITV4).
He showed the benefit of first-time blinkers when beating Awake At Midnight at the Sunbury track last month.
The handicapper has given FAIRWAY FREDDY (2.05, ITV4) a cracking chance to add to his success at Plumpton earlier in the month.