Williams delighted with State’s National weight
ByThe general consensus of opinion after the announcement of the weights for the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree on April 9, was that BHA handicapper Phil Smith had done a good job and there were few complaints from trainers across the board, writes Elliot Slater.
Amongst the hordes of trainers past and present, owners, and media, Welsh trainer Evan Williams was noted looking happier than most following the revelation that his talented chaser State of Play has been dropped 3lb from his 2010 mark and will carry 10st 6lbs in the big race this time around. The 11-year-old has finished placed in the last two Grand Nationals, last year running third behind Don’t Push It and Black Apalachi.
Ever since his effort at Aintree last April Williams has had this year’s race at the centre of his battle plan for the horse who in his time has been a very smart performer. It shouldn’t be forgotten that he impressively landed the 2006 Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury (beating Juveigneur by four lengths), won the 2008 Grade 2 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby, and has run well on countless other occasions to scoop a share of the prize money.
There is no doubt that the old adage ‘horses for courses’ applies more at Aintree than anywhere else as some tremendously talented horses simply fail to act over the awesome spruce fences, while others (sometimes less able), take to the challenge and prove themselves star performers. State of Play seems equally capable regardless of the type of obstacles placed in front of him, and having completed the course twice with barely a semblance of a mistake, he should go very well once again and anyone lucky enough to get a Grand National free bet may want to remember this.
Because he runs best when fresh, State of Play has not had any other outings this term and will be ready to run for his life off a weight that clearly excited connections. He is currently on offer at around 25/1 in the ante-post market for the big race.
Originally written by Bet123.net, an online Betting Guide
Williams delighted with State’s National weight
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