Synchronised set for Aintree bid

Connections of Synchronised have confirmed the Cheltenham Gold Cup hero as an intended runner in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National.

The Jonjo O’Neill-trained nine-year-old ran out a determined winner of steeplechasing’s blue riband at Prestbury Park last month, given an inspired ride by champion jockey Tony McCoy.

Golden Miller is the only horse in history to have followed up Gold Cup success with Aintree glory in the same season, securing the double in 1934.

Provided Synchronised pleases in a midweek workout, he will bid to follow in that legendary chaser’s hoofprints.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, said: “At the minute, the plan is for him to go. He just has to do a little bit (of work) during the week to make sure Jonjo’s happy with him.”

Berry also confirmed that last month’s Kim Muir Chase winner Sunnhillboy remains on course for the world’s most famous steeplechase.

“Sunnyhillboy is in good order and he definitely goes to Aintree,” he added.

Alan King is hoping for rain on Merseyside to boost the chances of his National hope West End Rocker.

King, who enjoyed a double at Haydock on Saturday, has yet to win the famous race, but has major claims this year with West End Rocker, winner of the Becher Chase on heavy ground in December.

King said: “He’s very well. I didn’t run him at Doncaster (Grimthorpe Chase) because of the ground and I took him to Manton instead.

“Brian Meehan let me go and work him there on Tuesday morning just to take him to somewhere new.

“He’s fine, but we probably need plenty of rain. Wayne (Hutchinson) rides him as he’s done all the work on him.”