23 April 2021: Balko Des Flos update

"Good afternoon everyone. Just to let you know Balko Des Flos has come out of the Grand National in exceptional form. Myself and the team here at Knockeen are all so proud of his performance that day.

He really is a yard favourite and was given a hero’s welcome on his return home from Aintree. He went to Tramore on Sunday where he led the parade with some of my other horses which he seemed to really enjoy. I have decided to put him on his holidays now and give him a well deserved break.

The plan will be to bring him back into training in the middle of July with the aim being the cross country races at Cheltenham before having another crack at the Grand National next April. I feel there are still some big races to be won with Balko and he showed at Aintree he retains a huge amount of ability.

The handicapper put him up 7 pounds to a mark of 159 which shows what a serious horse he is. I am sure he will give us all tremendous fun again next season at major meetings.

I will keep you updated throughout the summer on his progress and RacehorseClub will be organising a stable visit to come and see him later in the year where I look forward to meeting you all. I will be in touch."
Henry De Bromhead