Cilaos Emery's bid to qualify for the 2023 Grand National is going right down to the wire.
The Grade 1-winning chaser heads up to Kelso on Saturday to try and book his spot in the world's most famous race.
Sophie Leech's new acquisition has to secure a top four finish in the Make Your Best Bet At BetVictor Handicap Chase.
To get the green light for Aintree on April 15, all runners have to place at a distance of at least two miles, seven and a half furlongs, over fences.
With the deadline of March 28 looming, Leech hopes her recruit from Willie Mullins' stable can pass the test.
"Kelso is Cilaos Emery's last chance to qualify for the Grand National," she said.
"It is owner Geoff Thompson's dream to have a runner in it and we haven't had one either, so it would be very exciting if he could qualify."
Leech and her husband Christian have spent the last few years splitting their operation between Britain and France, lured by healthy prize money totals.
One of 20 horses in training, Cilaos Emery will be a new addition to their team on the continent.
"We thought he could do a job in France after Aintree," said the Gloucestershire-based trainer.
"It was complicated after Brexit, but we have fine tuned it now and there are plenty of opportunities for horses like him over there."
Ciloas Emery was allotted 10st 8lb for the National, 3lb more than ante-post favourite Corach Rambler.
Lucinda Russell's two-time Ultima Chase winner, 6-1 with William Hill, is 10lb 'well-in' on ratings.
His new mark, based on last week's snug Cheltenham Festival triumph, does not kick in until after Aintree.
