Intense Raffles © Photo Healy Racing
Irish Grand National winner Intense Raffles is set to return to action next month with all roads leading to the Aintree showpiece.
The French import has been a revelation on Irish soil in winning a couple of rated novice chases at Fairyhouse before landing the €500,000 Grade 3 BoyleSports Irish Grand National Steeplechase by a length and a-half at the same track in April.
Trainer Tom Gibney said: "He is good, is training away in good form and not a bother on him. Most of our jumpers are back in since the end of July and we're getting there.
"The boys (Simon Munir and Isaac Souede) are keen on Aintree (for the Grand National) so that is the main aim at the end of the season, so we'll work everything back from there.
"We are looking to start him somewhere in November, but don't know where yet.
"The plan is to preserve his chase mark by going over hurdles for most of this season."
Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
