held up mid-division, reminders approaching 14th, ridden and went 2nd 3 out, stayed on one pace
prominent, ridden 14th and lost touch, tailed off, pulled up before 3 out
held up last, lost touch 14th, pulled up before 4 out
held up towards rear, lost touch 14th, pulled up after 3 out
held up towards rear, mistake 11th, headway 14th, left 2nd 4 out, weakened approaching 3 out
prominent, ridden 7th, fell 8th
chased leader, led 6th, joined by winner when fell 4 out
held up towards rear, brought down 8th
led 6th, left in lead 4 out, pushed clear 3 out
Bunratty Castle gets the verdict in a typically competitive renewal ahead of Lord's Best and Dear Deal. Marcus Foley gave him a sympathetic enough reintroduction at Aintree following a long absence and the handicapper has not been mischievous in keeping his rating at 115. Lord's Best has always been held in high regard by Alan King. The trainer remains convinced that he is better suited by faster ground but the gelding seems to give his all regardless of the underfoot conditions. Dear Deal has disappointed this term but his best performances are invariably in smaller fields and this is one of his easier tasks for some time. Prince Highlight has been in good form of late and this trip looks a little more palatable than the three-and-a-half mile trip he has recently been campaigned over. Indian Chance is watched in the betting on return to the racecourse. Bunratty Castle gets the verdict in our sixth race of the programme.