In-Form Westerner Adds Midlands National Win To His CV

The progressive Truckers Lodge (8g Westerner – Galeacord, by Accordion) confirmed his talented over fences when running out an impressive winner of the valuable Midlands Grand National.

The Paul Nicholls-trained bay was last seen finishing second in the Welsh Grand National in December and was stepping up in trip to four miles and two furlongs at Uttoxeter on Saturday. Once again ridden by Lorcan Williams, he raced prominently on ground described as heavy and took the lead at the fourth last. Three lengths clear at the second last, he was pushed out to win by 18 lengths, unchallenged.

Harry Derham, assistant to Nicholls, gave a glowing post-race review, saying, “Truckers Lodge is progressing really nicely. He ran really well in the Welsh National and probably lacked a little experience for that run but he never missed a beat today. He jumped fantastically well and nothing went wrong.”

The Gordon and Su Hall-owned bay was recording his sixth career success under rules, having also won a four-year-old maiden for Batt O’Connell. Bred by Mrs Ann Hogan, he continues a fantastic season for Castlehyde Stud sire Westerner, who sired a Grade 1 winner at Cheltenham earlier in the week in the form of Ferny Hollow.