Tiger Roll eases to National victory
Tiger Roll made easy work of his Grand National rivals to win the historic race for a second successive time.
Jockey Davy Russell took a patient approach to proceedings at Aintree before edging the favourite on in the latter stages. Tiger Roll was the heavy favourite, despite owner Michael O’Leary playing down their chances, but he didn’t feature at the front of the field for the opening two thirds of the race. Russell picked the perfect moment to attack and the nine-year-old looked far too strong for his rivals over the final three fences, eventually cruising to a three-length victory. ‘I can’t believe it,’ said Russell. ‘At my age now to win two Grand Nationals – wow! ‘Gordon [Elliott, trainer] has been so good to me over my career. What can I say?’ It was a remarkable achievement for Tiger Roll, who becomes the first horse since Red Rum in 1974 to win back-to-back Nationals. Magic of Light finished second, with Ruby Walsh guiding Rathvinden home in third.Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
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