Royal returns over hurdles

Clan Royal will be back in action over hurdles at Exeter tomorrow in his first race since his unlucky exit from the John Smith’s Grand National.

The 10-year-old will face 14 rivals as begins his build-up to the Aintree spectacular next April in the South-West Racing Club Handicap Hurdle over an extended two-and-three-quarter miles.

The Jonjo O’Neill-trained gelding was carried out by a loose horse at Becher’s Brook second time round when in the lead and travelling strongly in the hands of Tony McCoy at Aintree.

Clan Royal, runner-up to Amberleigh House the previous season in the National, was reported to be in fine shape ahead of his return to racecourse action.

“He’s in good form and Jonjo’s very happy with him,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to owner J P McManus.

“Hopefully he’ll run a nice race.

“We’ll see how he gets on tomorrow but obviously the National is the target.”