Jack back for another crack

Pak Jack will aim to secure a deserved moment in the sun when he tackles the Grand National fences for a fourth time in the John Smith’s Topham Chase on Friday.

The eight-year-old gelding has never finished out of the frame over the unique obstacles but has also yet to get his head in front at Aintree.

Pak Jack has not been seen since finishing third behind Grand National-bound Mr Pointment at the course in November, but is firing on all cylinders again now.

Trainer Richard Phillips said: “He’s had a little problem with his knee but that’s fine now and he has a great record at Aintree, it’s better than Sir Peter O’Sullevan’s!

“He’s been third in this race before, second in the Hunter Chase and then he was third in the Becher this season.

“He seems in good form so hopefully he will run well again. He wouldn’t want the ground too soft, but I don’t think it will be.

“He’s in the Scottish National later on but I do think he is a bit better round Aintree than he is anywhere else, it seems to play to his strengths.”