Master bid for Aintree
Master Minded, rated the best chaser in training after his 19-length win in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham, could make a surprise appearance at Aintree next week.
Owner Clive Smith and trainer Paul Nicholls met yesterday to discuss options and Master Minded could go for Friday's Melling Chase (2m 4f) if stablemate Kauto Star, who also carries the Smith colours, runs in the longer John Smith's Bowl on Thursday.
Smith said: 'Kauto Star will be entered for the Bowl on Thursday and the Melling Chase on Friday.
'No final decision has been made but there is a possibility that Master Minded could run in the Melling if Kauto Star runs in the longer race.'
It had been mooted if Master Minded ran again this season it would be at next month's Punchestown Festival but an appearance at Aintree of both Smith's outstanding chasers would be a box-office bonus for the track.
