Timbera’s preparation for National ‘perfect’
"Timbera put up a good performance in the Irish National last season," he said. "His preparation has been perfect we are very pleased with him. He has only had three runs this season because Saturday's race has been his main objective since he won at Fairyhouse."
Willie Mullins is also happy with Hedgehunter.
"Our guy's method of jumping will be a big help. Hedgehunter was well named. When he sees something he pricks his ears and goes for it," he said.
"So far everything has been going well."
A total of 61 horses stood their ground at yesterday's five-day confirmation stage and Jonjo O'Neill is responsible for two of the leading fancies, Clan Royal and Joss Naylor, and is happy with the condition of both.
"There have been no problems with either of them and both are in great form, touch wood. I am very happy with them.
"Paul Carberry will ride Joss and Liam Cooper will ride Clan Royal."
A decision has yet to be taken on top weight First Gold's participation, according to Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus.
"Francois (Doumen) hasn't made his mind up yet and we won't decide for sure until Wednesday morning, but at the moment the Martell Cup is the favourite," he said. It just depends upon the going and a couple of other things, but if he does go for the National then Thierry (Doumen) will ride him.
"It looks as if JP is going to have four runners in the race Le Coudray, Spot Thedifference, Clan Royal and Risk Accessor."
A maximum field of 40 will face the starter at the weekend and Lord Atterbury is the last horse to make the cut at this stage.
Rince Ri heads the list of 16 horses taken out of the race. Others to be withdrawn include Swansea Bay, Valley Henry, Take The Stand, The Bushkeeper and Be My Manager.
Nicky Henderson was left devastated at having to scratch The Bushkeeper
"It's absolutely heartbreaking, but he went wrong again at the weekend," the trainer said. "It's just unbelievable.
"We had come so far along the road and, as we got nearer the race, I was starting to get excited. To be honest, I am totally gutted.
"With regards to the horse's future, we will have to wait and see for a bit. You have to ask yourself how many more times you can keep trying if his old legs just won't stand up to it."
Nigel Twiston-Davies will be represented by Bindaree and Shardam, with Whereareyounow likely to run on Friday.
"I've booked Tom Scudamore today for Shardam, but Whereareyounow will almost certainly miss the race," he said. "I've declared him as a precaution in case Bindaree had a problem, and he will go for the Topham instead."
Gunner Welburn, fourth to Monty's Pass last year, will be ridden by Tony Dobbin, who was successful on Lord Gyllene in 1997.
Trainer Andrew Balding said: "Although he would prefer a bit of give in the ground, as long as it's no firmer than it was last year then I think we'll be fine.
"He seems very well at the moment and Tony came down last week to have a sit on him over a couple of National-style fences that we have at home.
"He popped over nicely and Tony seemed pleased enough with him."
Martell Cognac Grand National betting:
Cashmans: 9/1 Timbera, 10/1 Hedgehunter, 12/1 Bear On Board, Jurancon, Clan Royal, 16/1 Montys Pass, Joss Naylor, Amberleigh House, Bindaree, Shardam.
Ladbrokes: 10-1 Timbera, 11-1 Hedgehunter, 12-1 Bear On Board, Clan Royal, Jurancon II, 16-1 Amberleigh House, Davids Lad, Joss Naylor, Monty's Pass, Shardam, 20-1 Bindaree, 25-1 First Gold, Gunner Welburn, Le Coudray, Lord Atterbury, Southern Star, 33-1 bar.
