Shane Jackson will rely on Irish star jockey Sean Flanagan to boost his chances of landing Sunday’s Grand National Hurdle at Sandown. Jackson will start both Highland Blaze and Loft in the 4200m event, hopeful of adding another feature jumps victory to his training career.

With Tommy Ryan electing to partner The Cunning Fox, Jackson approached Flanagan, a top cross-country rider in Ireland with multiple Cheltenham Festival wins to his credit. “Sean and I have been mates for years. When I mentioned I had a live chance, he didn’t hesitate to come despite missing rides at Galway,” Jackson said.

Flanagan will ride at Galway on Friday night before flying to Australia to take the Grand National mount. “He’s a top-class jockey who regularly finishes in Ireland’s top ranks, and I thought his experience would be invaluable,” Jackson added.

The decision mirrors previous instances of Irish jockeys flying in for the Grand National, most notably Ruby Walsh, who won the 2015 Grand National Steeplechase aboard Bashboy.

Loft, who won his first two hurdle starts, has since struggled on heavy tracks, but Jackson expects a better showing on a softer surface. “If it’s a Soft 6 or 7, that will be ideal for him. Heavy ground just blunts his brilliance,” Jackson said.

Highland Blaze is stepping up to 4200m after a powerful win over Loft at Hamilton on July 20. “The further he goes, the stronger he finishes. He always hits a flat spot mid-race but really attacks the line late,” Jackson explained.

“It’s always a strong race, and everyone wants to have a crack with their best hurdlers,” Jackson said. “But I wouldn’t swap my two; if everything goes right, they’ll be there when it matters.”