Aintree now in Dude's sights The Becher Chase at Aintree is among the potential targets for Monbeg Dude following his encouraging return to action at Chepstow on Saturday. Making his first appearance since finishing seventh in the Grand National in April, Michael Scudamore's stable star travelled powerfully in the hands of the trainer's brother, Tom, and finished a clear second behind Victors Serenade. Monbeg Dude could return to Merseyside to tackle the National fences once again on December 6, although a trip to Cheltenham next month, a track where he has won twice before, is also in the melting pot. "We were delighted with the run for his first run of the season, especially as the trip (three miles) is a bit on the short side for him," said the trainer. "Tom said he felt as good as he ever has and he probably jumped as well as he ever has, so hopefully we're going onwards and upwards from here. "I've had a brief chat with the owners about plans, but nothing is set in stone. "He's run well at the November meeting at Cheltenham in the past, so we'll have a look at that, and the Becher Chase is something else we're considering. "Hopefully we'll make the right decision."
