Hemmings dreaming of winning race named after Many Clouds

One man was always going to have a runner in the Grade 2 188bet.co.uk-sponsored 3m1f chase at Aintree today named in honour of Many Clouds (2.35), the Grand National winner's owner Trevor Hemmings, and his famous green, yellow and white silks will be carried by the top-rated on official figures Cloudy Dream.

Hemmings racing manager Michael Meagher said: "He was always going to try 3m at some stage and we were always going to have a runner in the race so it looks as good an opportunity as any.

"He'd have topweight in any handicap and okay, they're four good ones and the ground might be a bit of a worry, but it's a great chance to try him over the trip."

Nigel Twiston-Davies' Flying Angel beat Cloudy Dream by a length in a Grade 1 over half a mile shorter at the Grand National meeting and reopposes. His trainer said: "We’re trying three miles for the first time and think it will suit him. He’s probably got a couple of pounds to find, but we’re hopeful he can do so."

Noel Fehily celebrates victory as Flying Angel hits the line ahead of Cloudy DreamCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

The pair will be joined by Definitly Red and Alpha Des Obeaux, whose trainer Mouse Morris said: "He came out of his Clonmel win well and is in good order - in fact he couldn't be any better."

Twiston-Davies also runs Arctic Gold in the 188bet Grand Sefton (3.10) over the national fences and added: "It’s a valuable race, and there aren’t that many runners. He jumps very well, so we’re hopeful he will take to the National fences."

Paul Nicholls has won two of the last four renewals, including last year's, and saddles Sametagal. "I've always had this race in mind for him after he ran so well at Wetherby after being off for a good while," he said. "I've given him plenty of time. He is in good shape. I think he has a great chance."

David Pipe last won this in 2014 and of Rathlin Rose's chances he said: "He'll love the soft or heavy ground, and has an each-way chance."

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