Hedgehunter begins Aintree journey again
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Hedgehunter, a permanent fixture in recent Grand Nationals, starts his campaign to win the race for a second time when making his seasonal debut in Ireland tomorrow.
The 11-year-old runs in the John Durkan Punchestown Chase over two and a half miles two miles shorter than the Aintree showpiece which he won in 2005.
"The trip is a bit short but it's just a nice track to get him going again," said trainer Willie Mullins. Hedgehunter fell when going well at the final fence at Aintree in 2004, was runner-up in 2006 and ninth last time.
Michael O'Brien's Forget The Past will be one of nine rivals tomorrow. Robert Alner's The Listener is the sole British runner. The going at the Irish track was "heavy" yesterday but, despite more rain forecast for today, no inspections had been planned.
But today's fixture at Chepstow has fallen victim to the weather and was abandoned yesterday after further rain swept in, causing waterlogging.
In Hong Kong tomorrow, Dylan Thomas a horse Kieren Fallon would have constantly partnered but for the jockey's ban attempts to extend an already brilliant record in the Vase.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments