King Of Answers: Stamina Could Be Key
King Of Answers is considered a potential runner, having impressed at Kelso. The horse produced a career-best performance when second in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham last month. This indicates he can handle better ground. His Racing Post Rating suggests a 3lb rise shouldn’t be an issue. The emphasis on stamina should play to his strengths.
Quebecois Looking Strong
Quebecois ran his best race yet when finishing third in the Ultima. He should be a significant player in the Scottish National. The Paul Nicholls-trained seven-year-old previously won a novice handicap hurdle. The Ultima form was franked by Iroko and Jagwar, both Grand National placed horses. Quebecois could confirm the promise of that effort over a marathon trip.
Other Potential Runners
Road To Home shouldn’t be overlooked. Blaze The Way has enjoyed a productive first season over fences. He got off the mark in a competitive handicap chase at Cheltenham in December. Although not quite at that level in two subsequent outings he did shape a little better than the bare result in the Ultima last time, having been hampered. The addition of first-time cheekpieces may unlock some improvement. Git Maker may be vulnerable to younger types, but could still run another big race. He had a solid run in the Grand National Trial at Haydock and a good third in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter. A slight drop in trip will help and he’s 4lb lower than when third two years ago.
Promontory: An Interesting Prospect
Promontory is an interesting runner. At the age of nine, he has only run nine times and secured two victories. He heads into this off a career best at Leopardstown on his first attempt past 3m.