National trio come through trial

/ Editor / 05 February 2007 / Leave a Comment

Three Grand National entries went through their paces over hurdles at Punchestown on Sunday, with A New Story leading home the trio.

Michael Hourigan's nine-year-old finished fourth in the three-mile contest ahead of possible Aintree rivals Dun Doire and 2006 winner Numbersixvalverde.

None of the three could land a serious blow to the winner Contessa Messina, though the trio came through the race well.

Dun Doire's jockey Ruby Walsh was not too disappointed with his mount's performance, having finished four lengths behind A New Story, despite being sent off a short price favourite for the contest.

"He is by no means a fast horse and the slow early pace didn't help his cause. He stayed on but was never going to get to the ones in front," said Walsh.

Although Numbersixvalverde could only finish 9th of the 17 runners, trainer Martin Brassil was not too downbeat.

He said: "They went no gallop and when they did quicken he hit a flat spot. He'll go for the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse (February 24) next."

Michael Hourigan warned punters though after the race that A New Story might be aimed at the Powers Irish Grand National instead of going to Aintree.

Numbersixvalverde remains the most prominent in the Grand National market at 14.5 behind current favourite Hedgehunter on 13. Dun Doire can be traded at 16, while A New Story is available at 44.