Joseph O’Brien eyeing up National bid for Banbridge

Joseph O’Brien could be double-handed in the Randox Grand National at Aintree next month with Banbridge and Jordans.

The 10-year-old Banbridge has winning form at the Merseyside track after winning the Grade One Manifesto Novices’ Chase in 2023 but he is without a win since the King George in 2024.

O’Brien said: “He (Banbridge) came out of Cheltenham (where he was third in the Ryanair Chase) good. I’d say he could go to Aintree for the National.

“I think he might. We’ll keep his options open and a decision will be made late. We’ll discuss it with (owner) Ronnie (Bartlett) and see what he’d like to do.

“We’re leaning towards that at the moment. He loves the track and if it was three miles I’d fancy him!”

Jordans has been somewhat out of sorts this season but O’Brien feels the better ground on Merseyside can bring out the best in the seven-year-old.

“Jordans will run as well. A bit of nice ground would help him,” said O’Brien.

“I was a bit disappointed with him the last day but I think up in trip on better ground will help. He has a nice weight (10st 8lb) on his back.”

Regarding possible other Aintree runners O’Brien said: “Solness might run in the Topham and Home By The Lee could run in the Liverpool Hurdle, he came out of the race well in Cheltenham.”