WELL-FANCIED Kingsmark was ruled out of Saturday’s Martell Cognac Grand National yesterday just hours after being among the 40 final declarations for the race.

Cyfor Malta could be the surprise package in the Scottish National on April 20, a race in which champion trainer Martin Pipe has 12 possibles.

The Irish have missed out on a winner again at today's Cheltenham Festival after 25/1 shot Blowing Wind won the Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup Handicap Chase.

Cyfor Malta is expected to make his eagerly-awaited return to action at Cheltenham on Saturday.