Halcon tops 20 in National

Halcon Genelardais

Welsh National odds:
4/1 Miko De Beauchene
11/2 Gungadu
6/1 Halcon Genelardais
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All the major contenders for the Coral Welsh National have stood their ground with 20 facing the starter for the Chepstow marathon on Thursday.

Last year's winner Halcon Genelardais bids for a repeat victory with Christian Williams replacing the injured Wayne Hutchinson, although he will have to defy top weight of 11st 12lbs.

He is reported to be in top shape by his trainer Alan King who was pleased with his seasonal reappearance when he finished third in a valuable event over hurdles at Haydock.

"He's in really good form but he is carrying a lot of weight, 11st 12lb," said King.

"I think we have to go back to Carvill's Hill to find one who won with such a weight.

"But his preparation has gone really well, we were happy with him when he finished third at Haydock over hurdles and this has always been his target.

"I hope he'll run a massive race," the trainer told Sky Sports News.

Paul Nicholls runs four - Gungadu, Geeveem, L'Aventure and Cornish Sett - while the in-form David Pipe is responsible for three runners, Over The Creek, Dom D'Orgeval and Not Left Yet.

Venetia Williams, successful with Jocks Cross in 2000 and second with Mon Mome last year, is double-handed with Fair Question and Flintoff.

Last year's third Juveigneur and Sir Rembrandt, runner-up in 2003 and a faller in 2005 will try their luck once more.

Homer Wells, trained by Willie Mullins, is the sole Irish runner in a maximum 20-strong field with the market likely to be headed by the Robert Alner-trained Miko De Beauchene.