Hedge Fancied For National Repeat

Hedgehunter was clipped a couple of points by totesport after trainer Willie Mullins issued an upbeat bulletin on his John Smith's Grand National hope.

Mullins could have as many as five runners in the four-and-a-half-mile marathon at Aintree but believes his 2005 winner, who was also runner-up 12 months ago, still holds the best chance despite top-weight.

'I think he can run another big race,' Mullins told At The Races. 'You must remember that when he first ran in the National he ran very free and I was worried that when he went back he wouldn't like the place.

'But when he returned he loved it and he jumps great there. We haven't had the best of seasons with him but I thought he ran OK over hurdles the other day at Limerick.

'He has worked well since and I am confident with him going over.'

Following Mullins' news on Hedgehunter, totesport were forced to cut him in to 14-1 from 16s.

Spokesman Damian Walker said: 'We knocked Hedgehunter out to 16-1 on Monday and he's been the only horse punters have wanted to back today, taking out almost six figures before lunchtime.

'It is a little surprising really as the record of horses carry big weights is hardly encouraging.'

(C) PA Sport