Meath runners shape up for Aintree National

It may be two months away but the countdown to the greatest steeplechase of all time is underway and there will be plenty of Meath representation in the 2017 Aintree Grand National.

Gordon Elliott has 16 entries while Noel Meade has two, but if you are looking for a 'fairytale-type' to follow for the big race then other Meath trainers could be worth watching in the build up to the big race.

Gavin Cromwell, has already had a winner at Aintree in 2015, will have recent Welsh National runner-up Raz De Maree which was second to Native River.

Native River is also entered and fancied but not expected to run - Native River is currently second favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Ratoath trainer Dermot McLoughlin has Vics Canvas in the frame and Tony Martin has Gallant Oscar entered as one of the JP McManus contingent, Jim Dreaper has Sizing Coal as a possible runner.

Don Poli, trained by Gordon Elliott, is one of his 16 entries for Gigginstown House Stud who won the race last year with Rule The World-other Elliott possibles are Bless The Wings and Mountain King.

Other Gigginstown contenders are Road To Riches and Measureofmydreams both trained by Noel Meade.

Raz De Maree is owned by Jimmy Swan from Skryne while Vics Canvas is owned by the Bodeen Bandits Partnership that comprises a number of local enthusiasts.

In 2007 Gordon Elliott won with Silver Birch, the last Meath man to ride a winner was Jason Maguire in 2011 (Ballabriggs) while Barry Geraghty won it in 2003 with the Irish-trained Monty's Pass.