Soft ground could tempt Victor Dartnall to run Giles Cross in the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree rather than the Irish equivalent.
Having been placed in several big staying chases, including the last two renewals of the Welsh National, Giles Cross landed the Grand National Trial at Haydock last time out.
“It all depends on the ground for Giles Cross. He will be in the Irish Grand National as well, but if it looked like it was going to come up soft at Aintree we would be very tempted,” said Dartnall.
“Good to soft ground would probably be all right, though if we had a wet time we will definitely be there.
“I think Giles Cross would be an ideal type for the Grand National. He jumps very well and like I said, if the ground came right for him, I would love really to go there.”
Only five horses were taken out at the latest stage, with Willie Mullins scratching Blazing Tempo and Cooldine while Little Josh, Northern Alliance and Qhilimar were also ruled out.
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