David Pipe hopes The Package to make it to Grand National at Aintree
Trainer David Pipe is quite hopeful for The Package’s inclusion in the Grand National line-up, expecting the nine-year-old to get over his exertions before next month’s Aintree marathon.
After a long gap of more than 16 months, Pipe’s trainee made his seasonal return at Cheltenham earlier this month. The 6-1 chance did a fine job to secure fourth slot in the Grade 3 JLT Specialty Handicap Chase, held on the opening day of the extravaganza.
Since Kayf Tara‘s son is still not confirmed for the big battle, Pipe has warned punters to put their Aintree bets meticulously.
"The Package, who ran such a great race after a long absence to finish a close fourth in the JLT Speciality Chase at the Cheltenham Festival has taken a little longer to get over his race than we would have hoped,” Pipe wrote on his website.
He added: "We are still hopeful that he will make the line-up, so I would advise any ante-post punters to hold fire until bookmakers are offering the non-runner, no-bet concession."
The brown gelding has been given the odds of 40-1 by Ladbrokes. However, his participation in the Grade 3 event is yet to be confirmed, as he needs five runners to walk out of the meeting to book a berth.
On the other hand, Junior is certain for the world's greatest jumps race. The nine-year-old made his last trip at start of this month, when he secured second place in the Download William Hill From The App-Store Grimthorpe Chase.
Under Tom Scudamore, Singspiel’s son was slightly unlucky. He was in great position to seize top position, but remained adrift by a short head distance.
Last year’s Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup winner looks in good shape to trouble his rivals in the Grand National. Pipe is also satisfied with Junior’s progress, saying that his trainee is well prepared to create an upset.
"I am pleased to report that the preparation of Junior is coming along well and he remains firmly on course for Aintree," added Pipe.
Junior is currently carrying the second highest odds after Prince De Beauchene, who is 8-1 favourite with Bet365. According to the current betting card, Junior is a general 12-1 with most of the bookmakers.
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