Despite the drama of last year’s race, enthusiasm (0) FOR the Grand National remains as strong as ever. This year's impressive list of entries proves that the event's prestige and prize money continue to attract top contenders from across the racing world.
The organisers are relieved that the chaotic scenes during last year's race, when 1 two horses managed to finish, have had no impact 2 the number of entries. A first prize of around £350,000 is clearly a considerable incentive, and 3 many of the contestants will be no-hopers, they relish the chance to compete in the great race. Horses which will surely figure include Florida Pearl, who, along 4 Papillon, is one of 26 Irish-trained entries. Behrajan, Marlborough and Beau, who was going well until falling on the second circuit last year, are 5 among the entries. Smarty, the runner-up to Red Marauder 12 months ago, could get the chance to go 6 better, while his stablemate Ever Blessed is 7 interesting entry. He is due 8 run for the first time in almost two years in the Great Yorkshire Chase at Doncaster tomorrow.