Big Fella has big chance, says Ruby
The gelding, trained by Paul Nicholls, ran a tremendous race for a novice when sixth to Mon Mome last April and is ante-post favourite following his recent victory at Newbury.
That success prompted Walsh to choose him over stablemate Tricky Trickster after the latter disappointed in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
The Irish ace already has two National victories to his credit with Papillon (2000) and Hedgehunter (2005).
“He was only a novice when he ran last year. If he hadn’t run in the race last year, I’d be fancying him even more,” said Walsh.
“Some horses go back and are brilliant and some go back and don’t like it at all. That’s the one question you’d be worried about with him – would he take it to the second time?
“But his form this year is good. He was impressive at Newbury when he showed a bit of pace over two and a half (miles) and he stays.
“He might just be wanting better ground. The way the weather forecast is it could suit him.
“Tricky Trickster was a bit disappointing in the Gold Cup. You had to go on the performance in front of you and that’s why I’ve gone for Big Fella Thanks.”
Davy Condon rides Backstage for Gordon Elliott, who was successful with Silver Birch in 2007.
“All is well with him. I was at Gordon’s on Wednesday. The horse is in great form and came out of his race in Navan very well,” he said.
“He just didn’t like the ground there, it was heavy. He’s a good ground horse and I’m hoping we’ll get that in Aintree.
“He jumped round there in the Fox Hunters’ so he’s been over the fences and got a clear round.
“He’s a nice ride to get and Gordon’s been there before and done it, so he knows what it takes.”
The going on the Grand National course is described as good to soft, soft in places.
