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I think it's a fair assessment to say that Il Est Francais' time at the top of this game is over.
It's a sad sight, as he looked like a potential superstar, but I think he isn't the same horse that he used to be.
I don't think it has anything to do with his enthusiasm, as he jumped the national fences very well and looked to be enjoying himself. I think he has bled a lot in the past, and maybe he has had injuries that have caught up with him. In my opinion, I'd like to see him retire. He's still a young horse, but I can't see a way that he gets back to what he was.
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Ronnie Russet 11/1 – Aintree 5.00
I am not a huge fan of big field bumper races like this, but Ronnie Russet looks like he could play a part in this race for a yard who goes under the radar in the jumps world.
Jedd O'Keefe could have a smart horse on his hands for next year when they send Ronnie Russet over hurdles. Since his debut fifth, he has done nothing but improve from run to run, and his last at Newcastle was impressive. The Racing Post rated the Newcastle performance at 120, which means he has to improve to win and beat the likes of Bass Hunter, but it's doable.
He improved 26lbs from his second to third run, so if he can improve a fraction of that for today's race, he has to be bang there at the finish.
His running style is going to allow him to have a chance. He won't get a lead, as Bass Hunter is an out-and-out front runner, but Sean Quinlan should be able to get a prominent position to strike if the horse is still travelling well turning for home.
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Any one to share some tips?