Reasoning Bowen to Consider Topham as a Replacement for Mac Tottie
If the conditions at Aintree continue to be challenging, course specialist Mac Tottie might be redirected from the Grand National to the Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Handicap Chase.
Peter Bowen's 11-year-old has secured a place in the National's final 34 on Saturday and has excelled at Aintree previously. He triumphed in the Topham two years ago and added to his success by winning the Grand Sefton earlier that season.
His most recent appearance was marked by a successful performance at the Merseyside track during the traditional Boxing Day event. However, the outcome of his attempt to become the first Welsh-trained champion of the Grand National since 1905 will depend on the drying conditions of the track in the upcoming week. There is a genuine chance that he may opt for the shorter Topham Chase instead.
Bowen has emerged victorious in the Topham on five occasions in the past. However, both Sean and James Bowen, who have both achieved triumphs over the National fences while riding Mac Tottie, will not have the opportunity to ride the track regularly in Friday's two-mile-five-furlong race. This is because Sean Bowen, who is currently in the running for the title, is needed by Olly Murphy, while James Bowen is scheduled to compete against defending champion Bill Baxter.
Break Derek O'Connor, an amateur from Ireland, is set to take on the role of a capable substitute in the Topham race. Meanwhile, James Bowen will be in control if Mac Tottie decides to compete in the National on Saturday.