Racing: Paris heads for Ayr

Ferdy Murphy is hoping Paris Pike can gain quick compensation for his early exit at Aintree on Saturday in the Gala Casinos Daily Record Scottish Grand National at Ayr later this month.

The 10-year-old was a first-fence casualty in the Martell Grand National and Murphy is keen to send him out for the Scottish equivalent over four miles and a furlong a week on Saturday.

Murphy had three other runners in the Aintree race, Streamstown who finished ninth, 10th-placed Birkdale and Ackzo who was pulled up.

The Middleham trainer reports all but Ackzo to be none the worse for their exertions.

He said: ‘‘They are all back. Paris Pike is perfect and you would know the other two had been in a race, there’s nothing serious, they’ve just got a few nicks and cuts.

‘‘Ackzo is fairly sore and looks like he may have a bit of muscle damage. The vet is going to see him today and he’ll be X-rayed, so we’ll have to see.

‘‘Paris Pike goes for the Scottish National now but that’s it for the season for Streamstown and Birkdale, probably Ackzo as well.’’

Major Ivan Straker’s horse could face the maximum of 29 rivals in the Ayr contest, including fellow first-fence faller Marlborough who has been allotted top weight of 11-12 at Ayr.

Murphy’s charge, who won the Scottish National in 2000, is set to carry 10-11 and his handler is expecting a good run.

He added: ‘‘Paris Pike is in smashing form. He’s won the race before and the ground will suit him.’’