AP bids to follow Red Rum

Tony McCoy partners Don't Push It in attempt to win back-to-back Grand Nationals

CHAMPION jockey Tony McCoy is targeting a second successive Grand National triumph as he takes Jonjo O'Neill's Don't Push It back to Aintree for Saturday's big race.

McCoy's 15-year search for National success ended last year, and now he and his mount are bidding to emulate the legendary Red Rum by recording back-to-wback wins.

"The Grand National is a very special race and was the only reason I won sports Personality of the Year," he said.

"But now I've done it once, I want to win it again.

"Statistically we're up against it, but he's been improving with each run this season and I'm confident Jonjo will have him spot on for Saturday.''

Don't Push It is top weight amongst the 40 starters, although the current favourite is The Midnight Club, trained by Willie Mullins and being steered by Ruby Walsh.

For once, there are no runners from local stables, the nearest being Calgary Bay from Henrietta Knight's Wantage set-up.