I'M ON COURSE FOR WIN AT AYR

Max's gelding is the boldest Swinger in his favourite town

- CRAIG SWAN

MAX MCNEILL is hoping Threeunderthrufive can help his beloved annual trip to Ayr go with a successful swing.

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls is sending his charge north for Saturday's showpiece Scottish Grand National.

The leading owner savours going back to his roots and can't wait for his eight-year-old to battle for the big one.

Threeunderthrufive's challenge carries massive emotional connection for the team. The gelding was named after the exploits of McNeill's late father and ex-pro golfer Ted who was three under through five holes to lead The Open at Portrush in 1951.

And it was at Ayr where he has his first memories of racing as the pair went together to see Red Rum win Scotland's big race almost 50 years ago. McNeill told Record Sport: "There's been two targets for him this season.

"One was the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury and that did not go as planned. As soon as that one was over, we said, 'Where next?' And we decided, 'Let's aim him for the Scottish Grand National'.