61 seeking Martell Cognac Grand National Glory at Aintree 61 horses have stood their ground at the five-day confirmation stage for the world´s greatest chase, the Martell Cognac Grand National, at Aintree, England which is run at 3.45pm on Saturday (April 3). The maximum field is 40» Click here for entriesAll the leading fancies remain in the #600,000 contest, with First Gold continuing to head the weights on 11st 12lb.The Irish are seeking their fourth Martell Cognac Grand National success since 1999 and there are still 11 entries remaining from the Emerald Isle including last year´s hero Monty´s Pass, the current market leader Hedgehunter and Timbera, the 2003 Irish Grand National victor who has been well supported for the Aintree showpiece. In addition to First Gold, Kelami from the Francois Doumen stable is a second French representative.There were no significant withdrawals at today´s confirmation stage, with connections of Rince Ri and Swansea Bay having already ruled out their charges while Valley Henry is likely to run in Thursday´s Martell Cognac Cup instead.This year´s Martell Cognac Grand National promises to be one of the most competitive ever, with no less than 36 of the horses remaining in the handicap.GROUND Andrew Tulloch, Clerk of the Course at Aintree, reported today: 'The going on all courses, the National, Mildmay and hurdle, is currently GOOD.'There could be some rain coming later in the week and we will be assessing the situation. We will be selectively watering the hurdle and Mildmay courses and wewill keep appraising the situation as the forecast develops.'
