Takingrisks lands Scottish Grand National at 25-1

Sean Quinlan’s mount holds off Crosspark to score surprise victory for Nicky Richards

Takingrisks ridden by Sean Quinlan wins the Coral Scottish Grand National. Photograph: Jeff Holmes/PA
Takingrisks ridden by Sean Quinlan wins the Coral Scottish Grand National. Photograph: Jeff Holmes/PA

Takingrisks caused a 25-1 surprise in the Coral Scottish Grand National for trainer Nicky Richards and jockey Sean Quinlan.

Richards, whose father Gordon won the race twice, way back in 1969 with Playlord and again in 1990 with Four Trix, has enjoyed a resurgent couple of seasons.

Having struggled to replace stable star Monet’s Garden, the likes of Simply Ned, Guitar Pete and Baywing have all won big prizes recently for the Greystoke handler.

Richards in fact ran two, with Grimthorpe winner Chidswell going off a shorter price, but with half a mile to run Takingrisks could be spotted going noticeably well.

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When the favourite Vintage Clouds dropped away it was Takingrisks and Eider Chase winner Crosspark fighting it out, with Quinlan’s mount coming four lengths clear.

Crosspark just held off Cloth Cap and Blue Flight, who took minor honours.