RUBY WALSH has admitted the decision to side with ante-post favourite Big Fella Thanks at the Aintree Grand National is not one he has taken lightly. The champion jockey had a wealth of talent from Willie Mullins’ yard and the Paul Nicholls string from which to choose.
But after much deliberation, he has decided to ride last year’s sixth. “He’s an improved horse to what he was last year,” said Walsh. “Nobody will know who is right until after the race but I can only ride one.”
David Pipe has a strong team assembled for the race, with Madison Du Berlais an interesting possible along with 2008 winner Comply Or Die and Cheltenham Festival runner-up The Package.
“At the present moment we’re leaning towards the National for Madison Du Berlais,” said Pipe.
“We will also have him entered at Punchestown and may also enter him for the race he won last year at Aintree (totesport Bowl) as well. Piraya will run as well. He needs a few to come out but hopefully he’ll get in.
“Pablo Du Charmil is a possibility as well but we’re still waiting to school them over the big fences.
“Comply Or Die and The Package are in good order and Comply obviously has the form round there.”
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