Many Clouds ‘A1’ for National after schooling session

Many Clouds delighted trainer Oliver Sherwood in a schooling session yesterday ahead of his bid to repeat last year’s victory in the Crabbie’s Grand National at Aintree on Saturday week.

Sherwood could not be happier as Many Clouds attempts to emulate the legendary Red Rum, who was the last horse to record back-to-back victories in the world’s greatest steeplechase 42 years ago.

“He just popped over a few fences today. Leighton (Aspell) rode him. He’s fine, he’s A1 and I’m very happy. Everything is tickity boo,” said the Lambourn handler.