REST FOR THE BEST
LUCINDA RUSSELL is playing her cards right after winning Saturday’s Grand National with One For Arthur.
The last woman trainer to win the prestigious Aintree chase, Sue Smith, had her 2013 Aintree hero out again within weeks. Auroras Encore was tailed off in the Scottish National at Ayr and never figured in another finish.
Russell is taking a long-term view of her stable star’s career – and is to be congratulated.
“He has earned a long break in a big field,” Russell said after the race. “We will bring him back next season when the time is right. Another Grand National would be the aim.
“He only had a Coral Scottish National entry in case he made an early exit at Aintree.”
One For Arthur was following in the hoof prints of Scotland’s only previous National winner, Rubstic, back in 1979.
So it was fitting that Struan Douglas, son of Rubstic’s owner John Douglas, was drinking champagne at Russell’s yard in Kinross, north of Edinburgh.
Russell said: “It was lovely that Struan was there with us. There’s a nice connection with Rubstic and I’m very proud for Scotland. and for everyone here.”
One For Arthur was in great shape at Russell’s Open Day yesterday morning.
He was given a great ride by Derek Fox, who refused to panic when Blaklion went clear four fences from home. The youngster kept calm and produced One For Arthur to lead before the last to score from Cause Of Causes, Saint Are and Blaklion.
“He’s fabulous,” said Russell. “You only have to ride him to know he’s a real superstar. The first time Derek rode him he came back and said ‘I’ve never ridden a horse like that’ and it’s great for them to win the Grand National.
“Very, very good horses have something about them and [One For] Arthur certainly has it.”