RACING: Snoopy Loopy has been left at the head of the weights after 88 horses stood their ground for the John Smith's Grand National at the latest forfeit stage.
Peter Bowen’s charge will have to carry 11st 10lb for the four-and-a-half-mile marathon following the expected defections of Madison du Berlais and Exotic Dancer.
Other absentees include Star De Mohaison and Notre Pere but Cheltenham Gold Cup form could be advertised by My Will (fifth) and Roll Along (sixth).
My Will is one of five possibles from the yard of champion trainer Paul Nicholls, who is still seeking his first Grand National success.
The other acceptors from Ditcheat are Nozic, Eurotrek, Big Fella Thanks and Cornish Sett.
Last year’s winner Comply Or Die, Cheltenham Festival winner Character Building and Butler’s Cabin are all strong contenders for the home team, while Black Apalachi, 2006 Gold Cup winner War Of Attrition and King Johns Castle could make the journey from Ireland.
Tom George is looking forward to running Kilbeggan Blade, winner of three of his four starts this season.
“I see that Kilbeggan Blade is now set to carry 10st 4lb and it looks like we will definitely get into the National,” said George.
“The race has been the plan since he won his second London National (at Sandown) in December.
“That was his only start over fences this term and we not only did this to protect his mark, but also because he seems to run better over fences after a spin over hurdles.
“His two victories at Sandown came on the back of hurdle appearances and he really enjoys a bit of a change.
“His run at Warwick should have put him just right for Aintree and it was a matter of getting a run into him rather than expecting him to win.
“He’s only had four starts all season and he’ll be going into the National a fresh horse which is the key to him.”