Ridge to take National plunge

Paul Nolan believes Alpha Ridge could prove well handicapped when he lines up in the Powers Whiskey Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday.

The eight-year-old is still a maiden over fences after four starts but has filled the runner-up spot three times, most notably chasing home the high-class Pandorama in the Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse in December.