King Arthur takes the Grand National crown

LUCINDA Russell insists Randox Health Grand National winner One For Arthur will be put under no pressure to repeat his feat next year.

Bookmakers have already installed the 14-1 winner as favourite for an Aintree double in 12 months’ time, after he became the first Scottishtrained horse in 38 years to win the world’s greatest steeplechase, emulating Rubstic in 1979.

One For Arthur beat Cause Of Causes, with Saint Are third and Blaklion fourth

Milnathort trainer Russell said: “That’s it now for Arthur this season. He is entered in the Scottish National, but he won’t be racing. We’ll take him out to the field for a nice summer break and then he’ll be back at Kelso hopefully in October.

“The bookies have already made him the favourite for next year’s National, but there’s no pressure on him. He dictates the pressure and he’s been a super horse to train. He really does have some ability.

“Straight after the race I kept thinking, ‘This is incredible, I’ve just won the Grand National’ and it doesn’t really sink in. It’s just been my ambition all the time.”

Jockey Derek Fox bided his time before launching a late spurt that saw hit dart home to win by four and a half lengths from Cause Of Causes. The feat is all the more remarkable given Fox, 24, suffered a broken wrist and dislocated collarbone just four weeks ago.

Russell was full of praise for the Sligo rider, adding: “He’s a real tough lad. Mentally tough and physically tough.

“I’m so proud of everyone in the yard. I’m so proud because we knew we could produce racehorses at this level capable of winning the greatest steeplechase in the world.

“It was an incredible day. Everything has gone very slowly the last week, but our preparation was spot on and we’re just so pleased Arthur got a clear run.”