Shades of National saga with Irish raiders looking unlikely to run

There were echoes of the Randox Health Grand National after the Betfred Eider Chase forfeits on Monday, when two of Ireland's three remaining representatives were left in splendid isolation at the head of the handicap.

With Perfect Candidate defecting, weights went up 6lb – leaving Baie Des Iles on 11st 12lb and Raz De Maree on 11st 8lb. Then come a trio of British-trained horses on 11st 1lb.

Eider entries

Irish-trained Grand National heavyweights Outlander, Empire Of Dirt and Don Poli have been ruled out of the Aintree showpiece, and whether Baie Des Iles and Raz De Maree take their chance remains in the balance.

Of Baie Des Iles, who won a 3m4f handicap chase at Punchestown earlier this month, trainer Ross O’Sullivan said: “At the moment we are probably 50-50 on the idea of running off top weight and need to discuss the idea further.

“She'll do a piece of work in the morning and we'll make our minds up then, but there are so many other options for her that we may sidestep the weekend and possibly wait for something like the Leinster National at Naas in a fortnight’s time.

“She’s our best horse and, if we do right by her, hopefully we'll have a lot of fun. The ultimate aim will be the Irish National at Fairyhouse, but she's still only six and top weight in the Eider Chase might be a big ask.”

It is also understood that Gavin Cromwell doesn't want to tax his 12-year-old Raz De Maree too much ahead of a tilt at the Grand National and his participation is also questionable.

Emma Lavelle is doing a rain dance for Shotgun Paddy, and said: "I didn't want to read there was a nice drying wind there. We want a bit of rain, but he is in great order. He deserves to win one of these big chases."