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Always Waining heads contenders for Topham Chase run over the Grand National fences

Dual winner Always Waining is one of 45 entries for the John Smith`s Topham Chase at Aintree on 13 April.

The £100,000 event run over the Grand National fences and a distance of an extended two miles and five furlongs gives the horses who might not stay four and a half miles a chance to shine over the unique obstacles.

Former Arkle winner Forpadydeplasterer, trained by Tom Cooper, is among the list, as is last year's runner up Mon Parrain, who is one of three for champion trainer Paul Nicholls along with Frankie Figg and Fistral Beach.

Nigel Twiston-Davies has entered Little Josh, Nikola, Billie Magern and Viking Blond while Tom George could run Triangular.

The seven-year-old landed a competitive Newbury heat last week, claiming his second win since transferring to George's yard from France.

"The Topham Chase is a race we are looking at for Triangular," said George.

"He has come out of the race at Newbury very well. He has had a few days in the paddock just enjoying a bit of sun and a bit of grass and we'll start picking his work up again at the end of the week.

"Obviously, we were pleased with what we saw at Newbury as he did it nicely and I think the tongue tie helped him.

"I couldn't say he has plenty more to offer, but you couldn't say he hasn't.

"He's an older horse and been around a bit, but he has slotted into the regime very well.

"Aintree should be fine for him as he is very careful over his fences.

"Guy Cherel, who trained him in France, said he needs to come to England because he is too careful for French racing."

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