The name of the Wexford-based trainer Sean Doyle is not one that means much to most punters but that could change on Saturday when he saddles the well-backed Crosshue Boy (3.35) in the Scottish Grand National at Ayr. Now nine, this horse made a big impression when landing a novice handicap on this card last year and he looks a great bet to follow up at 11-1 in the main event.
Crosshue Boy was a regular winner last season under a claiming amateur, including at Ayr, where he beat Dingo Dollar. The runner-up is a few pounds better off but the winner looked to have a bit in hand and may have more to offer over this extra mile with Sean Flanagan up. He has been campaigned over hurdles since the turn of the year and is reported in rude health. It has been a busy season for Vintage Clouds and Beware The Bear while Big River may find the ground a bit lively. At 40-1, Arthur’s Gift is an each-way option.
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Ayr 1.25 Lillington 1.55 Molly The Dolly 2.25 Brain Power 3.00 Ballywood 3.35 Crosshue Boy (nap) 4.10 Solomon Grey 4.45 Legalized 5.20 O Connell Street
Newbury 1.40 Young Rascal 2.10 Dancing Vega 2.40 Mohaather 3.15 Ripp Orf 3.50 Fox Chairman 4.25 Roseman 5.00 Pianissimo 5.35 Dream Machine (nb)
Bangor 1.45 Quiz Master 2.15 Financial Outcome 2.45 Flight To Milan 3.20 No Alarm 3.55 Malangen 4.30 Storm Wizard 5.05 Keen On 5.40 Nikap
Thirsk 2.00 Kidda 2.30 Ventura Rebel 3.05 Prestbury Park 3.40 Kings Advice 4.15 Que Amoro 4.50 Vanbrugh 5.25 Senza Limiti 5.55 Kroy
Wolverhampton 6.00 Gottardo 6.30 Zapper Cass 7.00 How Bizarre 7.30 Traveller 8.00 Rich Cummins 8.30 Armed