Total prize money of over #1.5 million for the three days of the 2001 Martell Grand National meeting was announced at a press reception at Kill, County Kildare on Tuesday 14th November.
Speaking at Ted Walsh's yard, home of Martell Grand National hero Papillon, Aintree's Managing Director Charles Barnett said, ' This is yet another record for Aintree and I am delighted that year after year we have been able to push up prize money levels.'
Paraded before a large gathering of Irish and British racing journalists, Papillion was partnered by Ruby Walsh, who is set to make his comeback at Down Royal this Friday.
Also on show included Irish National and Heineken Gold Cup scorer Commanche Court, ridden by the trainer's daughter Katie, along with Cheltenham Gold Cup-bound Rince Ri.
True Blue Victory, a winner of five races on the flat in France, is a four-year-old to watch when he goes novice hurdling while winning pointer Some Buzz is another Ted Walsh inmate that may make his presence felt later this season. BF
