Backstage primed for National
“I’m very happy with him, he’s 100%,” said trainer Gordon Elliott.
“I just wanted to get his eye in over fences. The ground was totally against him but we got a good blow into him and it was a good eye opener.
“We’ll be hoping the ground dries up now and you’ll see a totally different horse. It’s all systems go for Aintree.”
Backstage is generally available at 20-1 to give Elliott a second Grand National triumph after Silver Birch in 2007.
Meanwhile John Quinn believes Character Building is capable of running a big race in the National.
The grey was a leading contender last season after winning the Kim Muir at Cheltenham, only to suffer a setback which caused him to miss the Aintree spectacular.
He only returned to action in February and was unplaced behind Chief Dan George in the William Hill Trophy at this year’s Festival.
However, Quinn was not disappointed with his performance as he felt conditions were unsuitable.
“He’s fine. The ground was too fast for him and they were just a bit quick,” said the Malton trainer.
“But he ran all right and if he can get over the Chair and on to the second circuit, he’ll have a big chance.”
Dessie Hughes’ two National hopefuls Vic Venturi and Black Apalachi had their last serious piece of work after racing at Navan on Saturday.
“They did two miles on the Flat. They are in good nick and are ready now. That’s most of the work done and they should get there (Aintree) now,” said the County Kildare trainer.
“They won’t do any more serious work now. They are very fit.”
Both horses are past winners of the Becher Chase over the National fences and are around 16-1 chances to land the big prize.
