AYR: MIXING IT WITH THE BIG BOYS

Inverurie trainer Jackie Stephen is set to mix it with the “big boys” on Scottish Grand National day at Ayr tomorrow.

Rising stable star Lock Down Luke will become the stable’s most high-profile runner when facing entries from major stables including Nicky Henderson and Paul Nicholls in the finale bumper (5.20pm).

Last year Lock Down Luke won his debut at Perth before finishing second at Carlisle to Peking Rose, the runner-up in last week’s Grand National-day bumper at Aintree. Sean Quinlan will take the ride on the fiveyear-old Lucarno gelding against a host of expensive contenders in the closing race.

The Nicholls-trained Flemenstide and High Worth, from the Henderson battalion, will be joined by Alan King’s Masaccio and Irish challenger Drumbear.

Stephen said: “We’re really pleased with Lock Down Luke.

“He has strengthened up over the winter. “The race is so strong that we’ll be delighted if Lock Down Luke can run into a place.”