Grey Dawning delivers for Skelton in Melling thriller
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Fri 10 Apr 2026
Grey Dawning perfectly executed a drop back in trip to get the better of a fascinating duel with long-time leader Solness in the JCB Melling Chase at Aintree.
The Joseph O’Brien-trained Solness – who was moving up from two miles – took up his customary front-running position and disputed the early lead with Gidleigh Park before asserting his authority down the back straight, moving around two lengths clear.
But Dan Skelton’s Grey Dawning, who was last seen finishing a brave fourth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, was racing enthusiastically and jumping well, always waiting in the wings to launch his challenge.
Harry Skelton moved the 5-1 chance to the front with two fences to out and he jumped into the lead over the last, but Solness refused to wilt and a thrilling battle ensued with Grey Dawning’s stamina seeing him edge a neck verdict.
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