Chase The Spud stayed on well to get the better of Mysteree in the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter.
1st Chase The Spud (11/1)
2nd Mysteree (8/1)
3rd Warrantor (16/1)
4th Houblon Des Obeaux (20/1)
Race Report
Chase The Spud stayed on resolutely under Paddy Brennan to catch Mysteree and win the Betfred Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter.
Fergal O'Brien's horse was beaten by Mysteree at Haydock in November but a 13lb pull at the weights helped him reverse that form in a race that changed complexion in the final mile.
With that distance left to go long-time leader Alfie Spinner was still seeing off challenges for the lead up front, including from Houblon Des Obeaux who had been in his slipstream throughout.
But those in behind began to get on top at the business end of the contest and it was Mysteree that went for home first under Robert Dunne.
Michael Scudamore's horse looked the likely winner two from home, but Chase The Spud emerged from the chasing pack under Brennan to lay down a strong challenge.
Warrantor was getting into things too by that point, but after the last it was clear either Mysteree or Chase The Spud would claim the prize with the former battling away gamely.
Eventually Chase The Spud got the better of the argument with Mysteree and was well on top at the line, with Warrantor third and Houblon Des Obeaux fourth.
Reaction
Paddy Brennan: "For three-quarters of the way, I didn't think I was going to win, but I kept it in my mind there might only be a few finishers and I saved the race for the end.
"I'm so proud of the horse. There has always been an excuse and the owner has been extremely patient. I'm delighted to get a good one for Fergal O'Brien."
Fergal O'Brien: "We had a good second at Cheltenham in the Pertemps (with Barney Dwan). I was disappointed for Paddy on Friday, but that was yesterday. Today is today and he gave him a fantastic ride.
"That's why I use him. He's been a great friend and I'm absolutely delighted."Both horse and rider were tough. Paddy was very strong on him.
"I've got the half-brother and I love the family."
Michael Scudamore: "We managed to beat him a couple of lengths or so at Haydock earlier in the season.
"The weights have turned around and he's come back and done us today, but I'm very proud of our fella. He's come back from the Eider and run a great race and Robbie (Dunne) has given him as lovely ride.
"I'm just proud of the performance."
