Stan the Man for Venetia

Trainer Venetia Williams has given the green light for Stan to take his chance in the John Smith’s Grand National on April 4.

The chaser, who has run most of his races over two or two and a half miles, had the option of the Nakayama Grand Jump on the agenda, however after careful consideration, trainer Venetia Williams and owner Paul Beck have decided to commit him to the Aintree Marathon. Owner Beck commented:  "We've turned down the Japanese invitation and we're 100 per cent set for Aintree. I don't think he's without a chance, if he stays the trip."

Stan is 100/1 with Hills for the John Smith’s Grand National, odds perhaps reflecting his potential lack of stamina and weight, he is set to carry at least 11st 6lbs. However Beck also added that he believed Stan to be quite well in: ‘He's a 160-rated horse at his best who can run off 154 and he tends to come good at this time of year. If it's good ground on Saturday, he'll love that when it won't suit others so well.’’

The John Smith’s Grand National kicks off at 4:15 on April 4. It is the highlight of the Aintree Festival, and the current going ahead of the meeting beginning April 2 is good, good to soft in places.

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Tags: Grand Naitonal Entries, Grand National 2009, Grand National Bet, John Smith’S Grand National, Paul Beck, Stan, Venetia Williams