Craigie course sees Ruby Walsh return as he defends Aintree

Ruby Walsh has given his full support to the British Horseracing Authority and Aintree following last week’s John Smith’s Grand National.

Walsh had been scheduled to ride On His Own for Willie Mullins in the famous race, but was forced to give up the ride after suffering a crashing fall from Zarkandar earlier on the card.

The National has come under severe criticism following the deaths of Gold Cup winner Synchronised and According To Pete. Speaking after riding a winner at Ayr yesterday on his return to the saddle, Walsh – who rides Harry The Viking in the Scottish National today – said: “I didn’t think it would take me as long as it has to get back.

“I felt a bit groggy after and wisely the doc stood me down. I was pretty sore on Sunday and it’s taken me a few days to get right. I honestly thought that Aintree couldn’t have done any more with the ground and presentation of the fences.

“The BHA was first class too and did all they could to make it a good and enjoyable National. The casualties were of courses disappointing, but it was a little bit [frustrating to see the negative press]. Look at Great Endeavour unfortunately getting killed in his paddock at home yesterday. These things unfortunately can happen anywhere, and the gods conspired against us on Saturday.

“Synchronised got up from a fall, galloped on and broke a leg a mile later, and for According to Pete to be injured after being brought down... well I think of all the horses that I’ve been on, who have been brought down and haven’t been injured. I felt sorry for the BHA and Aintree.”