Impressive Full Jack bolts up in French Grand National
Many observers might have assumed that Rolland had lost his chance of a fourth success in the country’s richest handicap when second-favourite Mukonzi Has was an early faller but Full Jack moved effortlessly onto the heels of leader Monetaire between the final two fences before bounding clear to score by five lengths.
“He’s a horse who always gives his running and he was given a great ride,” said Rolland, referring to the cool efforts of 27-year-old Acker, who was riding in the race for the first time. “Going up in trip on drying ground was also key to him today,” continued Rolland, who last won this race 15 years ago with Chant Royal.
Monetaire looked all over the winner until Full Jack appeared in Jacques Ricou’s rear view mirror, having travelled supremely well through the race in the well-known colours of British owner Allan Stennet.
“He did some damage to a pedal bone so he’s been back with us in Shropshire and only came back here about two and a half months ago,” reported Richard Kent, bloodstock advisor to Stennet. “To do that in only his second race back, you’d like to think he has a good future.”
