Green Flag can go well in the Betfred Becher Chase, says trainer Lucinda Russell

Lucinda Russell believes Green Flag should go well over the Crabbies Grand National fences in Saturdays record-breaking Betfred Becher Chase at Aintree.

As well as the biggest attendance for the Becher of 42,000 due to Aintrees free ticket giveaway there will be a record field of 25 set to line up in the extended 3m2f Grade Three feature.

Last years 22 runners was the previous biggest field for the Becher since its inception. But last years winner Chance Du Roy, top weight and Scottish Grand National winner Al Co head the bumper field, which includes Russells Green Flag.

The seven-year-old made an encouraging return to action at Carlisle last month, finishing fourth to subsequent Hennessy Gold Cup hero Many Clouds.

He will be having his first taste of the unique National fences at Aintree and is a best-priced 12-1 joint third favourite with most bookmakers behind 10-1 market leader Chance Du Roy.

Russell is hopeful he can go close to victory and said: Green Flag is really well. I was delighted with his comeback at Carlisle over a trip that was too short and obviously the winner has gone on.

The step up in trip will definitely suit him. He has always been a very good jumper and should take to the course as the fences are very horse friendly now. I think he is on a reasonable mark and he has every chance.

Philip Hobbs Chance Du Roy, who also finished sixth on his last start in the Crabbies Grand National, bids to match Hello Bud and land the Becher for a second time. Recent Troytown Handicap Chase winner Balbriggan, from Grand National-winning trainer Gordon Elliotts stable, is one of three Irish raiders and is vying for favouritism and is a best-priced 11-1 with BetVictor.

Fellow Irish raider, the Jim Dreaper-trained Goonyella, is 12-1 with several firms including William Hill, Coral and BetVictor.

2011 Irish Grand National winner Lion Na Bearnai 50-1 with Ladbrokes completes the Irish contingent.

Originally posted here:
Green Flag can go well in the Betfred Becher Chase, says trainer Lucinda Russell