Synchro set for Grand National

Connections of Synchronised have confirmed the Cheltenham Gold Cup hero is an intended runner in Saturday’s John Smith’s Grand National.

The Jonjo O’Neill-trained nine-year-old ran out a determined winner of steeplechasing’s blue riband at Prestbury Park last month, given an inspired ride by champion jockey Tony McCoy.

Golden Miller is the only horse in history to have followed up Gold Cup success with Aintree glory in the same season, securing the double in 1934, and Synchronised will bid to follow in the legendary chaser’s hoofprints if he pleases in a midweek workout.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, said: “At the minute, the plan is for him to go. He just has to do a little bit (of work) during the week to make sure Jonjo’s happy with him.”

Berry also confirmed that last month’s Kim Muir Chase winner Sunnhillboy remains on course for the world’s most famous steeplechase. He added: “Sunnyhillboy is in good order and he definitely goes to Aintree.”

Alan King is hoping for rain on Merseyside to boost the chances of his National hope West End Rocker, who won the Becher Chase over the big fences on heavy ground in December.

The trainer said: “He’s very well. I didn’t run him at Doncaster (Grimthorpe Chase) because of the ground and I took him to Manton instead. Brian Meehan let me go and work him there on Tuesday morning just to take him to somewhere new.

“He’s fine, but we probably need plenty of rain. Wayne (Hutchinson) rides him as he’s done all the work on him.”

One who will not be heading to Aintree, however, is Neil Mulholland’s Midnight Chase. The Cheltenham specialist was last seen finishing seventh in the Gold Cup when he did not jump with his usual fluency.

Mulholland tweeted: “After speaking with Lady Clarke & family Midnight Chase will not run in the Grand National. He has had a great season & will enjoy a break.”