Grand National: Jacob fancies his chances at Aintree

Daryl Jacob is relishing his chances on board Good Boy Bobby in Saturday's Grand National.

In October, the nine-year-old made a winning return at Wetherby under Jacob, beating Cracking Destiny by one-and-a-half lengths. 

He was then beaten by Aye Right in a Listed race at Newcastle a month later prior to winning a Grade Three contest at Wetherby on Boxing Day. 

After a short break, Good Boy Bobby failed to impress at Kempton, finishing seventh in the Grade Three Trophy Handicap Chase. 

But Jacob believes he is in with a shout at Aintree. He said: "I'm very much looking forward to riding him. 

"I came up on Wednesday to walk around the track with my wife and kids. Looking at the track this year, I think the race is really suited to him."

Nigel Twiston-Davies and his team have kept Good Boy Bobby under wraps since Kempton but connections feel he can run a big race at a competitive price. 

The trainer is looking for another winner in the world's greatest steeplechase after previous successes with Earth Summit (1998) and Bindaree (2002). 

Jacob knows what it takes to win on board Good Boy Bobby and believes they can spring a surprise.

He added: "I'm getting more and more confident about his chances. I think he'll take to the fences really well. 

"Nigel is due a Grand National winner and there are lots and lots of positives. 

"The ground is going to be in his favour. I don't think the trip is going to be a problem and I'm really looking forward to it."

There have been further changes to Saturday's field, with all three reserves now guaranteed a place in the Grand National. 

Commodore, School Boy Hours and Romain De Senam will now feature after Phoenix Way, Easysland and Lord Du Mesnil were declared non-runners.

All three were withdrawn just before the 1pm Friday cut-off point. 

Phoenix Way, trained by Harry Fry, had a temperature, while Jonjo O'Neill's charge Easyland was withdrawn due to a bad scope. 

Lord Du Mesnil, who was pulled up in the big race 12 months ago, was withdrawn due to the going, which is currently described as good to soft.

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