Sport

Carberry on Character again

RACING: NINA CARBERRY will once again take the ride on Character Building in the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree on Saturday…

Thu Mar 31 2011 - 01:00

RACING:NINA CARBERRY will once again take the ride on Character Building in the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree on Saturday week. John Quinn's 11-year-old was a leading fancy for the world's most famous steeplechase a year ago and although he managed to complete the course, he was ultimately well beaten into seventh.

However, the grey runs off a 5lb lower mark this time around and Quinn believes his charge can improve on that initial effort over the giant fences. “He’s in good form and we’re very happy with him at the moment,” said Malton-based Quinn. Nina Carberry rides him again and hopefully he’ll run a good race.”

Quinn will also be represented on Merseyside by talented hurdler Recession Proof. The totesport Trophy winner ran a fine race to place fifth in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and will step up in trip at Aintree.

“He goes for the first race on Grand National day, the two-and-a-half-miler (Mersey Novices’ Hurdle),” Quinn continued. “We were very happy with his run in Cheltenham and the handicapper has put him up another 6lb. He’s won over two and a half miles before, so we know that’s not a problem and he won’t be out of place at Aintree.”

READ MORE

Stuart Crawford is looking forward to saddling Killyglen in the National and feels there were excuses for his slightly disappointing sixth at Doncaster last time. “I was happy enough with the way the horse went at Doncaster, but I just think they went too fast that day,” said Crawford.

“Everything has gone well so far and he has had no setbacks. He did a piece of work after racing at Navan on Saturday. Robbie Power rode him and he was happy with him. Robbie will also ride him in the National.”

Marlos Moment looks the day’s best bet at Cork this evening as his close third to The Pier at Thurles in January was a good run and he hasn’t been disgraced in decent maidens subsequently.

He was four lengths in front of Baily Green when behind Flemenstar at Navan recently but Mouse Morris’ charge was having his first start since December and could prove a lively danger.