Becher target for Big Fella Thanks

Big Fella Thanks has performed well over the National fences

Trainer Tom George is hoping Big Fella Thanks can continue his fine record over the Grand National fences when he returns to Aintree for the Becher Handicap Chase on Saturday week...

The 10-year-old has completed the famous course on each of his three starts in the Grand National, finishing sixth in 2009 and fourth in 2010 when in the care of Paul Nicholls as well as being seventh in 2011 when handled by Ferdy Murphy.

His first run since that latest National effort came only last month when he made his debut for Tom George over the Mildmay fences, only to unseat Paddy Brennan in a veterans' handicap chase.

"The Becher Chase race has been the plan for him since he came back in and he has been in really good form," said George.

"He is where we want him to be at the moment. It was a bit unfortunate what happened last time at Aintree but it didn't do him any harm and has got a run into him. He was showing all the right signs before his run at Aintree. His work has been good and he has been showing plenty of enthusiasm."

"The only target we have had for him is this race so after that we will just pick and choose as we see right for him."

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