Pineau looking for more Aintree glory Pineau De Re returns to the scene of his finest hour in the Betfred Becher Chase at Aintree hoping to break a curse that stretches as far back as 2003. Winner of the Crabbie's Grand National in 2014, Dr Richard Newland's star has shown there is still plenty of ability in the locker when bouncing back to form at Sandown last time out to finish second over three miles. However, the fact remains the last National winner to win another race of any description was Nigel Twiston-Davies' Bindaree in the Welsh National in 2003. "He seems in fantastically good form. That run (Sandown) was his best since April 2014 when he won the National," said Newland. "Last year he was punished (by the handicapper) for success the year before and it was too much for him. "I think he's now fairly handicapped on the balance of his form. "This is a huge race, the Becher, and it would be great for him to win. "If he can't win it and he runs a good race then we'll definitely think about the National again." Saint Are bids to continue his good record over the National fences after finishing third in this race 12 months ago before going on to take second place behind Many Clouds in April. The big race is again the ultimate objective but trainer Tom George has his star stayer in good order for a return to Merseyside following his seasonal appearance. That came in a handicap chase over Cheltenham's cross-country course last month, when he was sixth to Josies Orders. "We've been delighted with him," said the Slad handler. "He had a nice summer off after the National and he ran in the cross-country race at Cheltenham which we hope has put him right for this. "He did enjoy the cross-country race but it was a bit tight for him round there, but he ran respectively and hopefully he can carry on where he left off. "He loves Aintree and this has obviously been his first target and we will work back from the National after that." Well fancied is the Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained Algernon Pazham. He is only a six-year-old but the Naunton handler has never let age get in the way if he thinks he has the right horse for a race. "He might be only six but he's got lots of stamina," said the Naunton handler. "He's a second-season novice, which tend to do well in these races, and he jumps well. "I've had a few horses who've really taken to the place and he looks like he should be fine." Top weight is the Paul Nicholls-trained Unioniste, an early faller in the Grand National. Owner John Hales said: "It will be his first run of the season and we want to give him some more experience over the Grand National fences. "He was too wired up and on top of himself when he came down in the National. "I think it is important to give him another go over them. "He looks a natural for the Grand National, given his breeding and everything, and hopefully he will have a good experience at the weekend."
