Grand National Potential on the Horizon for King Turgeon

David Pipe acknowledges that discussions are imminent regarding a potential bid for the Grand National with the in-form King Turgeon after his impressive victory at Cheltenham on Friday.

The six-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season so far, beginning with a commanding win at Chepstow before triumphing over the iconic Grand National fences in the Grand Sefton at Aintree last month. Originally set to return to Aintree for the Becher Chase, his plans were disrupted by Storm Darragh, prompting a switch to Cheltenham, where he completed a superb hat-trick.

With his rating now at 139, Pipe recognizes that King Turgeon may need a further boost in the handicap to secure a place in the Grand National field. However, the Pond House trainer—who famously won the Aintree showpiece with Comply Or Die in 2008—believes the improving grey has untapped potential.

“We haven’t done much with him since; he’s been out in the field, and he seems fine,” Pipe said on Tuesday morning.

“The owner will be coming to the yard, and we’ll discuss what comes next. I thought his Grand Sefton performance was impressive, but he produced another career-best at Cheltenham, which shows he’s young, progressive, and still improving..”

“There’s definitely a conversation to be had about the Grand National. Jumping is one of his strengths, and he’s really strengthened up this season. He showed plenty of courage to battle back and win the other day..”

“To even consider the National, he’d need to win again and climb higher in the weights. I haven’t yet looked at the programme book to map out his next target, so we’ll take it one step at a time.”