Rain could come just in time for Native

The wet forecast will be a relief to plenty in the region and will come just in time for the Tizzard stable who are eager to run NATIVE RIVER in the Many Clouds Chase at Aintree on Saturday.

The admirable 11-yearold will only run on his favoured testing ground and he proved just how capable he is on a softer surface when landing the Cotswold Chase at Sandown in February.

He is reported to be in surprisingly top form at the moment, and he won this race in 2019 before the bold jumper was unsuited when low sun made this less of a jumping test.

Stage Star emerged as a contender for the Challow last week and perhaps BRAVE KINGDOM could also prove his place in that line up when he contests the Grade 2 Ballymore Winter Novices’ Hurdle at Sandown on Friday.

He made a huge impression when breezing to a comfortable success at Chepstow on his first test over hurdles and he could develop into a top-notch novice this season.

The Nicholls yard won this race in 2019 with Enrilo and look to have a very strong chance once again.