Enhanced Iroko ready for Aintree challenge after promising comeback at Cheltenham following injury. Trainer plans to extend him to a three-mile distance

Iroko, the horse trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, will confidently step up to a three-mile race at Aintree following a promising return from injury at the Cheltenham Festival. The six-year-old, owned by JP McManus, finished fifth in the Turners' Novices Chase two weeks ago, but his connections were satisfied with his performance considering it was his first race after a 128-day break due to a foot injury. Despite the injury setback, Iroko's recovery was swift enough for him to participate in the spring festivals.

In the previous season, Iroko was tried in a three-mile race, finishing third to Apple Away in the Sefton Novices' Hurdle at the Grand National meeting after an impressive victory in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham. On 12th April, he will compete in the Mildmay Novices' Chase over the same three-mile distance.

Oliver Greenall expressed his satisfaction with Iroko's performance at Cheltenham, considering the long break he had. The horse's jumping ability kept him in the race, highlighting his suitability for longer distances. Greenall plans to step him up to three miles and participate in the upcoming Aintree race. The trainer expects Iroko to improve after the recent race, noting his impressive jumping skills and increased fitness. Greenall believes that Iroko ran as expected, staying on well despite being a bit outpaced.

Initially, the plan was for Iroko to run a three-mile race at Aintree, but due to the long break and the transition to fences, they decided to go for a shorter distance at Cheltenham. Greenall is relieved they made that decision, as a three-mile race would have been physically demanding for Iroko after the extended break. The Cheltenham race was not overly taxing, and Iroko has recovered well from it, gaining valuable experience. Greenall now feels confident to proceed with the three-mile race at Aintree.

Iroko's foot injury turned out to be less severe than initially thought, affecting only a small area and allowing for a quicker recovery time. Greenall mentioned that they continued training Iroko without making a fuss, as they would with any other horse. They were patient and kept working, and fortunately, the recovery was faster than anticipated.

Aside from Iroko, Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero will be busy with other horses throughout the week. Guerriero will ride in the Foxhunters' Chase, and Homme Public will compete in the Red Rum on Thursday. Additionally, Making Headway will participate in the 2m handicap hurdle on Friday, the same day as Iroko's race. The yard's consistent performer, White Rhino, will also feature in the 3m½f handicap hurdle on Grand National Day.