Maggio to target Grand National success

Local trainer Lucy Normile is double-handed in the feature race at Perth on Thursday.

Based just a few miles down at M90 at Glenfarg, she saddles Badged and four-time course winner Strobe in the Diageo Handicap Chase.

Mrs Normile, who celebrates every winner with a champagne breakfast, said: "Age is beginning to catch up with Strobe a bit but he loves Perth and this is his time of year. He is very well and is flying at home.

"We're maybe dropping Badged in at the deep end a wee bit but he likes Perth too and is in A1 shape. The longer trip should help."

Among the rivals for the Normile pair are Gordon Elliott trio Richard Johnson-ridden Russian Regent, Xaarcet and Bouggietopieces.

Maggio was targeted at the 2016 Crabbie's Grand National after shouldering top-weight to victory in Perth's Grosvenor Casinos Handicap Chase (for the Stirling Cup) on Wednesday.

Trained by Patrick Griffin and ridden by Brian Hughes, the Irish raiser pipped fast finishing Kilbree Kid by half a length.

Co-owner Douglas Pryde, whose colours were carried to victory in the National by Auroras Encore, said: "We had three options for him but decided to come here and it's turned out perfectly.

"He was third reserve so just missed out at Aintree last year but he should get in now after this.

"The plan now is to keep him mainly over hurdles to protect his handicap mark and his next race over fences will be the conditions cross country chase at Cheltenham in October.

"It was a wonderful experience to win the National and I'd love to do it again!"