Four can echo ‘08 National result

After the four-mile National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham, Four Commanders’ owner, Michael O’Leary, was quoted as saying that his horse wanted seven miles.

While that was a little tongue-in-cheek, it actually looked as though he was done for stamina up the punishing hill and I believe that the drop back to three miles and five furlongs for Monday’s Irish Grand National will work be in the horse’s favour.

The six-year-old really appreciated the better ground when running a gallant third behind Teaforthree at the Festival, putting up a terrific effort from the front.