Back To The Thatch looks the answer to the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter today (3.35).
Henry Daly’s six-year-old came good over the larger obstacles at the fourth time of asking when slamming Catching on by 11 lengths in the mud over an extended 2m 7f at Chepstow two starts back.
He travelled ominously well throughout and despite hitting two from home cruised clear to win with any amount in hand.
It was an effort which suggested there was even more to come and a 9lb rise looked more than fair.
A revised rating of 129 was just 1lb higher than his best over hurdles and he was in the process of running a huge race off it when travelleing strongly and coming down at the 16th in the Eider Chaes at Newcastle last month.
He had yet to be asked any sort of question and is able to race in this off the same rating.
His handler also does well with staying chasers and this marathon trip of looks right up Back To The Thatch’s street.
With the prospect of further improvemnet looking assured, and underfoot conditions holding no fears, he looks to have plenty going for him.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 3pts win Back To The Thatch (6/1 generally available – use BOG firms)