LONDON, Dec 27: Bindaree, Aintree Grand National winner in 2002, galloped through the mud to land the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow on Saturday.

It was Bindaree’s first success in 10 races since his Aintree win 20 months ago.

Ridden by Welshman Carl Llewellyn, the 10-1 chance battled to a half-length victory over 2-1 favourite Sir Rembrandt in a three miles five furlongs (5.8 km) test of stamina run in driving rain. Irish raider Hedgehunter, a 7-2 chance, was third.

Bindaree’s task was made easier when two of his main rivals who were disputing the lead four fences out both fell, leaving him to fight it out with Sir Rembrandt, the mount of Andrew Thornton.

Bookmakers rate Bindaree a 20-1 chance to repeat his 2002 success.—Reuters