Sam stays loyal for National selection

Trainer Paul Nicholls pictured with Saphir Du Rheu and Zarkandar.

This race has added significance as defending champion Paul Nicholls attempts to overhaul Nicky Henderson in the race to be this season’s top trainer.

Always highly regarded, Saphir Du Rheu – owned by Andy Stewart of Big Buck’s fame – won at Kelso last month under Twiston-Davies before putting up a career-best performance behind Sizing John at Cheltenham.

Nicholls, who only saw off Henderson’s challenge to his dominance in 2012 when Neptune Collonges won the National in a head-bobbing finish, could saddle as many as five runners in the £1m race.

Details of riding arrangements were confirmed after it was revealed that Le Mercurey has been snapped up by owner Patricia Thompson and will sport the same colours as her 1992 Grand National hero Party Politics.

Thompson, who owns Cheveley Park Stud along with husband David, famously bought the Nick Gaselee-trained Party Politics just days before the race and she will be targeting similar success.

Le Mercurey finished second to the ill-fated Many Clouds over regulation fences at Aintree back in December and also chased home Native River in the Denman Chase.

Nicholls is now hoping the famous pink and purple silks of Thompson will bring similar luck to Party Politics. He told his Betfair blog: “Mrs Thompson has been an owner here for some time and has done well with Boa Island this season.

“She was looking for a National contender with solid form and Le Mercurey fits the bill. Sean Bowen keeps the mount as Sam Twiston-Davies has chosen Saphir Du Rheu who finished a close fifth in the Gold Cup.”

Nicholls also has Wonderful Charm, Just A Par and Vicente in the National frame, and added: “All five of my National entries are in great form at home and they will all be suited by goodish ground on the day.”

The Racecourse Association has honoured three Yorkshire tracks for their customer  service.

York’s staff were singled out for praise, together with the track’s Knavesmire Court fast-food outlet. Meanwhile the quality of visitor information and signs at Wetherby and Doncaster also made the roll of honour.