Tributes for Johnson

Richard Johnson announces his retirement, while Christian Williams hopes his form continues to Aintree

- MARCUS ARMYTAGE

“WE TRY TO GET SATURDAY WINNERS”

STABLE form heading to Aintree is always a help, so it is no wonder Christian Williams was delighted with the comfortable victory of Five Star Getaway (pictured) in the Betway Challenger Middle Distance Chase Series Final at Haydock on Saturday. It was a second decent Saturday winner in a row for the South Wales-based trainer after Kitty’s Light won at Kelso the previous weekend.

This Saturday Williams runs Potters Corner, the “winner” of last year’s Virtual Grand National, in the real thing.

“We try to get Saturday winners,” said Williams. “Kitty’s Light is favourite for the Bet365 Gold Cup and Five Star Getaway has another Saturday up and running. It now goes on to Potters Corner next week. He’s in good form so we’re very excited. This season’s been geared to the National.”

Five Star Getaway looks to have a decent future.

“I was a bit worried about the ground but he’s a horse we’ve liked from last season,” said Williams.