Monday, 5 April 2010

Irish National


Paul Nolan believes the testing going will suit both his runners in the marathon Powers Whiskey Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse.

The County Wexford trainer saddles leading fancy Alpha Ridge and talented mare Moskova.

"Hopefully we'll get some luck in running and conditions will suit. Both of them handle heavy ground," he said.

"Moskova's record in big fields is not good, but we are hoping for a bit of luck. It's all about getting round on the first circuit and getting a position after that. The first four or five fences will matter an awful lot.

"Moskova has won four times in Fairyhouse, so you could nearly call her a course specialist. She has her quirks and will want a lot of running in a big field like this.

"Alpha Ridge's novice season hasn't gone to plan. He's still a maiden, so we preferred to go for a big pot rather than go for a beginners chase and have his novice status gone for next season. We are hoping for a good run."

Colin McBratney also feels the heavy ground will play to Selection Box's strengths.

"He's got a lovely low weight and the ground should be perfect for him. We're hoping for a big run," said the County Down trainer.

"Sometimes his jumping lets him down a wee bit, but there's no reason he shouldn't be there or thereabouts. Eddie O'Connell takes 7lb off and the horse jumped fantastic for him in Down Royal last time."