Disappointing Kelso return for Grand National champion Corach Rambler as he finishes fifth behind Elvis Mail
Grand National Champion Corach Rambler Kicks Off Campaign with a Twist
In a surprising turn of events, Corach Rambler, the remarkable Grand National hero, started his campaign by finishing fifth in the Edinburgh Gin Chase at Kelso. Despite being burdened with giving away over a stone to all his rivals, this nine-year-old has always needed an outing for his seasonal reappearance.
The slow pace of the race did not favor this out-and-out stayer and jockey Derek Fox wisely opted to bide their time towards the back of the six-runner field. Empire Steel and Highland Hunter commanded the pace at the front as they dictated proceedings.
Jumping fluently for most parts of the contest, Lucinda Russell’s charge seemed well within reach until those ahead suddenly quickened up from third-last fence. Caught off guard, Corach Rambler stumbled at the penultimate obstacle before coasting home without much ado.
However, it was Nick Alexander’s Elvis Mail who stole victory with an impressive display. The 11-4 chance held on strongly to defeat Highland Hunter by two lengths in what turned out to be an exciting finish.
Coral still considers Corach Rambler as their favorite at 16-1 odds to defend its Grand National crown next April at Aintree. Despite this initial setback, trainer Lucinda Russell remains positive about her star horse’s future prospects.
Russell shared her thoughts with ITV Racing: “Derek and Scu (Peter Scudamore) said he got tired; perhaps the sharp track didn’t suit him entirely but I won’t make too many excuses for him. It might just be my fault for building up expectations.”
“If we look closely at his form,” she continued,”we’ll notice that he usually needs his first run, so hopefully he can build on this performance. Derek was content but mentioned that he blew up towards the end. I apologize to everyone, but that’s just how he is.”
As for future plans, Russell hinted at possibilities without committing entirely: “We did consider the Betfair Chase, though it would require significant improvement from him in training. He is still in contention for the Coral Gold Cup as well, so we’ll assess his condition and then decide on a plan of action.”