Russell’s Rambler in mix for Punchestown
LUCINDA RUSSELL will consider a tilt at the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup with Corach Rambler following his first fence exit in the Grand National last weekend.
Following a highly creditable third-place finish in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the 10-year-old was well fancied by many to claim back-to-back victories in the Aintree spectacular, but parted company with Derek Fox at the first obstacle and then fell riderless at the second.
Thankfully Corach Rambler returned to Scotland unscathed and having pleased in a midweek schooling session, Russell is not ruling out an end-ofseason trip across the Irish Sea.
‘When Corach Rambler unseated Derek at the first in Saturday’s Grand National, it certainly wasn’t the fairytale result the team and I had dreamt about for our pride and joy!’ said the trainer.
‘It was naturally very disappointing, but I’m delighted to report that he came home safe and sound.’
‘We schooled him on
Wednesday morning to make sure he hadn’t lost any confidence after Aintree, and he seems really happy. He’s very pleased to be back in work and there are no ill-effects from Liverpool.
‘Regarding future plans this season, he’s still got an entry in the Punchestown Gold Cup. Immediately after the Grand National, I wasn’t that keen to run him again this term, but if he’s very fresh and feels good, we’ll think about taking him to Ireland.
‘We’ll see what each day brings and decide nearer the time, but I certainly wouldn’t rule it out.’
Meanwhile, Haatem was cut to 20-1 for the 2000 Guineas after a dominant victory in yesterday’s Craven Stakes at Newmarket.