Monbeg Genius Gears Up for National Warm-Up at Kelso

Monbeg Genius, a top contender for the upcoming Randox Grand National, is included in the line-up of 13 entries for the bet365 Premier Chase at Kelso this Saturday.

The British Horseracing Authority recently confirmed that the gelding has been given the green light to participate in the race, despite an asset restraint order imposed on owners Baroness Michelle Mone and Doug Barrowman.

Trained by Jonjo O’Neill, the eight-year-old Monbeg Genius has been out of action since securing a third-place finish in the Coral Gold Cup last December, with a setback preventing any subsequent outings.

Currently priced at 16-1 for the National on April 13, Monbeg Genius may come face to face with the previous year's Premier Chase victor Empire Steel, who is also registered for the Kelso event.

Other notable contenders holding entries for both races include Sail Away, Highland Hunter, Kinondo Kwetu, and the well-loved veteran Aye Right.

The Grade Two bet365 Premier Novices’ Hurdle boasts 23 entries, with Formby Novices’ Hurdle winner Jango Baie and third-place finisher Cannock Park standing out.

Benson, the reigning champion of the bet365 Morebattle Hurdle, is poised to carry the top weight in this season's race, with 26 entries confirmed so far.

Nicky Henderson's Under Control and Black Hawk Eagle from Kerry Lee's stable are currently the frontrunners in the betting market for the upcoming event.