Maguire hoping Kite makes cut

Adrian Maguire is facing a tense wait to see if Golden Kite makes the cut for Saturday's John Smith's Grand National.

The Munster National winner is currently 43 in the pecking order and will need three to drop out to line up in the historic race.

Maguire is hoping that his charge sneaks into the final field at declarations on Thursday as he feels the gelding is made for the marathon contest.

“He's 43 at the moment so we'll have to wait and see. It's still realistic and certainly not out of the question,” said Maguire.

“I don't think there is any point travelling over unless he is a reserve. We'll see on Thursday.

“He's in great form, absolutely flying and I couldn't be happier with him. He's really really well.

“The dryer the ground the better for him and the trip would be ideal as he's very honest and gallops all day.

“He's a very good economical jumper and ticks all the boxes really. He's the sort of horse that would take to the fences and is the kind you would want to send there.

“He has a nice racing weight, off 10st 2lb, as well and we're just hoping he gets in.”

The Grand National was one of the few top races to elude Maguire during a glittering career in the saddle and to win it as a trainer would be a dream result for the Mallow based handler.

“It's a fantastic race to win and it would be like winning the lotto. I had a good enough time around there (as a jockey) and was placed a few times.”

Gary Carson