Seabass’ Grand National credentials improved after paddypower.com Chase victory
Seabass’ classy victory in the Grade 2 Paddypower.com Chase at Naas promoted the bookmakers to cut him for the John Smith's Grand National, set to take place at Aintree in April this year.
Prince De Beauchene has appeared as new Aintree favourite, holding the highest odds of 1-7 with Paddy Power.
The bookies reacted quickly to Sunday’s results, as Stan James shortened Seabass to 16-1 (from 33). Likewise, Boylesports cut him to 14-1 (from 25) for the marathon spectacular.
The nine-year-old also received a drift in his odds for the Byrne Group Plate, as he was cut to 8-1 (from 16-1). Not only for Byrne Group Plate and JLT Specialty Chase, Seabass’ credentials saw a dramatic drift for the Grade 3 John Smith's Grand National
Chase (Handicap).
All of this happened after Seabass’ fantastic victory at Naas on Sunday, February 26, 2012. Under Ruby Walsh, the gelding displayed a wonderful act, getting a decent lead right from the beginning.
Zaarito gave him a real tough time in the middle, challenging his dominance constantly. However, T. M. Walsh’s trainee managed to sustain his advantage.
His trainer’s heart would have come in his mouth, when Seabass lost his fluency at the final moments. Due to his slight mistake, the pressure started mounting on him but the gelding kept his nerves calm.
He responded strongly to regain his lead in the final stages, finishing one length ahead of Zaarito. The runner-up displayed a wonderful show after a lethargic start. Yet, Seabass’ strong finish snatched the glory from him, as he failed to perk up his speed
at the end moments.
On other hand, Felix Yonger’s victory in the Grade 2 paddypower.com Novice Hurdle promoted Paddy Power to cut him to 20-1 (from 33) for the William Hill Supreme Novices' Hurdle.
At Fontwell, Barbers Shop confirmed his qualification for the Foxhunters by sealing the top slot in the totepool Supports The Racehorse Sanctuary Foxhunters Trial on Sunday.
The spectators at Fontwell also saw Third Intention delivering a wonderful performance in the Grade 2 totepool National Spirit Hurdle. This victory guided the five-year-old to 14-1 (from 25) for the Coral Cup.
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