Owner's National dream
A horse owned by a Midlands businessman is set to give bookies a run for their money after rising from a 50-1 outsider to become the new favourite to win Saturday's Grand National.
Owner Chris Massey, from Netherton, was today celebrating after his horse Joes Edge was confirmed as a runner for the world-famous race.
And trainer Ferdy Murphy believes he is heading to the race at Aintree with his best-ever chance.
If Joes Edge wins the event, bookies are facing the biggest payout in Grand National history – around £25 million on current bets.
But the figure could rise even higher as punters are also expected to place bets on the horse on the day of the race which could push the payout up to as much as £100 million.
Backing for the horse has increased since Joes Edge shook off years of poor form to win the William Hill Trophy at Cheltenham on March 13.
The ante has gone from a 50-1 outsider to 8-1 favourite in the world-famous event after catching the attention of racing pundits following an unlikely win at the Cheltenham Festival.
Among those cheering on Joes Edge will be regulars at the Gate Hangs Well, in Bridgnorth Road, Wollaston, who have supported the horse since the very start.
Mr Massey drinks at the pub and people there always bet on their favourite horse no matter what. A picture of Joes Edge – named after Mr Massey's grandfather – even hangs with pride of place in the bar.
A big screen TV is being set up outside the pub on Saturday to accommodate all of the supporters.
Chris and Ferdy Murphy have been waiting nervously all week to hear if the 10-year-old horse would be assured a place in the event.
Two horses were needed to drop out in order to guarantee him a postition in the line-up and the chance for Joes Edge came after Fota Island and Iris Royal were ruled out of the competition.
Mr Massey was preparing to travel up to Aintree today for the three-day festival.
