Pauling excited to see Handstands on National service

Ben Pauling is eyeing a shot at the Grand National with Handstands after being thrilled with his run in Winsor’s Fleur de Lys Chase.

A Grade One-winning novice over the larger obstacles last season, the seven-year-old has yet to replicate those heady heights in open company this term, but encouraged by his display when conceding weight to an on-song Protektorat, his trainer is keen to put a target on Aintree’s world famous marathon.

Pauling said: “I think he ran a lovely race and it was his first run back after a wind op. I think he looked like he was finding it hard work from a long way out and he actually served it up to Protektorat two out.

“He was carrying an 8lb penalty and was only beaten six lengths so you have to say it was a good performance and I think it will put him right back where we want him.

“He seems great after the race and I imagine his mark won’t move much and he suddenly becomes a very attractive proposition for a tilt at the Grand National. I think that is where we will probably end up looking this season.

“He will run again before the National and whether that’s an Ultima or a hurdle race, I’m not sure yet. But I think now he’s back on track, wherever he goes I would hope he will be competitive.”

Pauling was also thrilled to see promising hurdler Starmount return to his best, winning at Wetherby for the second time.

It was a welcome display having seen ground conditions scupper his chance when fourth in Grade One company at Aintree on Boxing Day, and the Naunton Downs handler is now pointing towards Sandown on March 7.

“He needs soft ground and the ground up at Aintree for the Formby (Novices’ Hurdle) was genuinely good ground and he’s just not fast enough on that ground,” explained Pauling.

“He’s not a fast horse at all, he’s a stayer really, but he does have the attitude to cope with two miles at the moment. He jumped very well at Wetherby and it was good to get him back on track and we will look towards the EBF Final with him now.”