Stainsby Girl runs at Aintree on Thursday

As far as Mares' Bumpers go, they don't come much better than the Grade 2 race that takes place on the opening day of the Aintree Grand National 3 day Festival each year.

So, we're under no illusion as to the stiff task that faces Stainsby Girl in this year's renewal on Thursday. For this race and for the purposes of balloting (if necessary) the BHA handicapper assigns a nominal rating to each horse. Whilst our mare comfortably made the top 20 - maximum field size of 20 - of the 33 entered at the 5 day stage, Stainsby Girl is nonetheless outside the top 10.

The Shirocco mare, out of a dam by Double Trigger to whom she bears an uncanny resemblance, does stay well but may be caught for toe in the latter stages of the race.
We can hope she runs a nice race, as she'll make an ideal type for mares' novice hurdles next season.

Callum has recovered from a recent injury, and takes the ride and we trust Helen Simpson and Al Duncan enjoy the day - we're sure they will!

Stainsby Girl (nearside) seen working with Dali Mail