04.04.08 - THE GRAND NATIONAL, RACING AT AINTREE

Jacob looking forward to a big run

Having stayed on well to finish fourth in last year’s John Smith’s Grand National on his first attempt, jockey Daryl Jacob is looking forward to teaming up with the Nick Williams-trained Philson Run once again on Saturday.
 
"Touch wood, Philson Run is in good form. I sat on him about two weeks ago and did a piece of work on him at Exeter Racecourse. He felt good that day," explained the young rider.
 
"He was fourth in the John Smith’s Grand National last year, so hopefully he’ll have a good chance this year. That was my first ride in the race so it was great to get around and finish fourth.
 
"He jumps and he gallops, he gave me a good ride in it last year, so hopefully he’ll give me a good ride this year."
 
Of course, Philson Run was not guaranteed to make the cut for the marathon race, but the rider was delighted for the yard as much as himself that last year’s fourth made it into the race.
 
"Mr Williams has planned him out all year for this race, so it’s great to know that he has got in. It is a great relief for him and for the whole yard. I’m just glad to be part of it.
 
"The ground shouldn’t be too much of a problem. Obviously, we would like a bit of rain just to slow the others up because he’s a big horse and he just keeps galloping. The faster they go early on, the slower they’ll be going at the end and that will suit my horse."
 
Meanwhile Shane Molony, travelling head lad for Tom Taaffe, reported that last year’s third Slim Pickings and stablemate Tumbling Dice have arrived and settled into things at Aintree ahead of Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National.
 
"They got here on Thursday afternoon and, thank God, they’ve all settled in well. Slim Pickings has been in great form this year so hopefully he’ll run another big race. Considering his run last year, I think he’s been nicely treated by the handicapper.
 
"They’ve been well-schooled at home and Slim Pickings jumped well last year, so he should have no problems. Tumbling Dice should handle the trip well and, hopefully, he’ll handle the fences too," he concluded.