Racing: Marlborough tops Ayr list

Marlborough heads a list of 38 horses confirmed today for the Gala Casinos Daily Record Scottish Grand National at Ayr on Saturday.

The 10-year-old, a first-fence faller in the Martell Grand National is an intended runner for the £100,000 (€163,000) marathon over four miles and one furlong in which the maximum field allowed is 30.

He is set to carry 11st 12lb and as a result, 27 of his possible rivals are out of the handicap proper.

His trainer Nicky Henderson has also left in Artic Jack while owner Sir Robert Ogden could be doubly-represented with the Philip Hobbs-trained Enrique.

Other Aintree first-fence casualties likely to seek compensation are Paris Pike, the winner two years ago, Inn At The Top and Carryonharry.

Samuel Wilderspin (fell fourth), Frantic Tan (unseated rider fifth), Iris Bleu (fell fifth) also exited the National at an early stage.

Jonjo O’Neill has a strong hand in Carbury Cross, Rith Dubh, Mini Sensation and Lanmire Tower.

Other fancied horses to stand their ground include course specialist Grey Abbey and Racing Post Chase winner Gunther McBride.