Grand National News
17.02.2010
Now that a possible tilt at the Cheltenham Gold Cup has been ruled out, the formerly smart chaser Air Force One can be prepared specifically for a crack at the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree in April.
Charlie Mann's German-bred eight-year-old hasn't had the best of luck since chasing home Madison Du Berlais in the 2008 Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury, after which he ran a sound race to finish fifth behind the great Kauto Star in the King George VI Chase at Kempton.
Returning to action at Newbury in the dramatic Aon Chase that saw Denman unseat at the third last, Air Force One (generally a 50/1 chance when it comes to Aintree Betting) eventually came home a tired third having clearly been in need of his first outing for some 10 months. The next morning the gelding pulled out completely sound and the Mann team are now concentrating their gaze on the 10th April where this formerly smart chaser will head to Aintree to tackle the 30 daunting spruce fences in the world's greatest steeplechase.
At his best, Air Force One, (winner of a Grade 1 chase at Punchestown in April 2008) is a very good performer and connections will doubtless be hoping that he gets a reasonable racing weight when the handicapper announces his allocations later this month. Air Force One has proved a generally sound jumper over the years and is a relentless galloper well capable of making his presence felt amongst the Grand National Runners if the cards fall right for him on the big day at Aintree.
A horse ideally suited by good ground, the chances are that the spring weather will provide an ideal surface for the son of Lando, allowing him to perform to the very best of his abilities. Normally ridden by regular partner Noel Fehily, connections will be anxious to see the Irishman recover from shoulder surgery in time to keep the partnership intact. Paul Moloney is the rider most likely to replace Fehily should he fail to regain full fitness for the big day. Definitely one that the horse racing tips will be buzzing around come the big day!
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