“We were always told the key to training horses for big races is to train them as though it’s a little race and don’t do anything different. Keep things simple and keep the horses fit and well. That’s all we can do.
“He’s been a marvellous horse for us. He’s not been over-raced and there aren’t too many miles on the clock. I’m hoping he’ll be going for another couple of years yet. He’s well in himself. We’re just living the dream.”
Son James, who only turned 20 earlier this month, rode out his claim on March 8. Now he is looking forward to the biggest ride of his life. And having won over the National fences on the ill-fated Endless Power at Aintree in November, he can’t wait to return.
James said: “I’m really proud of what I’ve done and it was great to lose my claim just before my 20th birthday. It was great to win on Endless Power at Aintree. I’ve been nominated for an award at the Lesters for that ride and it was my first over those fences.
“It’s a big galloping track and if you have the right horse it’s every jockey’s dream to ride round there.
“Rambling Minster is a great horse, he’s one of my favourites. I’ve ridden him the past couple of seasons and won some really nice races with him. He’s been a star.
“It’s the National, but everything should be ideal for him – a flat track, good ground and four and a half miles. Everything’s perfect. You’ve just got to hope for some luck.
“Maybe he’s just come to his peak and he’s really thriving this year. He’s only an eight-year-old at heart and that’s when most horses come to their peak, but the amount of racing he’s had amounts to what an eight year-old might have had in another yard.”
Keith took over the reigns at Lingdale from his mother Mary five years ago.
She trained more than 2,000 winners in 22 years on the Flat and over jumps. In the few runners she had in the race she didn’t have much luck, but like her son and grandson she is looking forward to a big family occasion.
She said: “Rambling Minster has done really well this year.
“I didn’t have many runners in the National – Into The Red and Robbo. James has ridden him great. He’s won over those fences but the National will be a different ball game. It would be fantastic if they could win. He’s always been a decent horse and he seems to have gelled with James.”
If he can do so again come 4.15pm this Saturday, it could be a case of happy families all over again at Aintree.
TODAY’S NAP: Sendreni (4.35pm Folkestone).
