Bob primed for Glenfarclas raid
A Grade One-winner for the late Dessie Hughes, the 12-year-old finished fifth in the 2013 Grand National.
Hughes recommended Rare Bob to Griffin’s son, James, when he became available and were he to win memories of Hughes’ many successes at Cheltenham will be stirred.
“He set off for Cheltenham on Tuesday morning and looking at the weather forecast he’ll have been blown over in record time,” said Griffin.
“Rare Bob was a top-class horse in his day, and he’s still got plenty of ability.
“He would surely be a popular winner. Dessie recommended him to my son, James, who used to work for him. His previous owner got involved with a new horse and Dessie said we’d have some fun with him.
“We had planned to run him at the last Cheltenham meeting, but the ground wasn’t right. I just hope it’s not too quick this time as he’s a big horse.
“He’s been working very well but obviously he’ll benefit from getting the adrenaline pumping in a race. It’s nearly four miles, though, so he’s very fit, you have to be.
“He’ll be getting an entry for the Grand National. Dessie always thought he was a National horse and the year he got his ground he was brought down early but he still managed to finish fifth when it was too soft for him. He was just behind Oscar Time and he’s won the Becher at 13.
“It’s great to see those new veterans’ races announced, too, as I imagine he’ll run in a couple of those along the way but the main thinking is Aintree.”
