Diva only Irish runner in Scottish National Sea Diva is the sole Irish runner in Saturday's Coral Scottish Grand National after 21 horses were declared for the Ayr marathon this morning. The Dessie Hughes-trained mare is a proven stayer having previously scored over 3m5f, and was fourth in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter last month. Roger Loughran will take the ride carrying 10st 6lb. The weights have gone up 13lb following the defections of Notre Pere and Miko De Beauchene leaving Dear Villez to carry top weight of 11st 12lb. Paul Nicholls' charge was last seen finishing fourth in the William Hill Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival. Nigel Twiston-Davies is represented by National Hunt Chase hero Tricky Trickster (11st11lb), while Chief Dan George (11st1lb) is a major player for James Moffatt. Brooklyn Brownie bids to bounce back after only making it as far as the second fence in the Grand National at Aintree, while Ferdy Murphy saddles Nine De Sivola who was second to stable companion Hot Weld in this contest two years ago. Eider Chase winner Merigo, smart novice Gone To Lunch and the Nicky Richards-trained According To John are other interesting contenders in the 4m1f event. Richards also saddles Native Coral, but has warned the 11-year-old will only run if the ground is suitable.
