JENNY PITMAN, whose record of three past victories in Chepstow's Coral Welsh National stands the closest scrutiny, has just two entries, Nahthen Lad and Mudahim, in this year's renewal on December 27th.

Sun Alliance Chase winner Nahthen Lad has been allotted - 11st 8lb, just 2lb behind top weight Couldnt Be Better, and Pitman believes her young chaser has been rated and must be considered a doubtful runner.

"I think 11st 8lb is just a little severe, that's nearly a stone more than Burrough Hill Lad carried when he won the race so you can't expect him to carry that."

The Weathercock House trainer saddled Corbiere to land the stamina test in 1982 and followed up with Burrough Hill Lad in 1983 then three years later took the prize again with Stearsby.

Pitman's other entry Mudahim, who is allotted 9st 8lb, is a relative newcomer to the yard, having previously been in the care of Chris Board.

"We are still getting to know each other. It is a bit like being on your first date," she quipped. "He is just settling down and settling in. I should expect to know a bit more in about 10 days.

"Mudahim will be ready to run soon and then we shall have a better idea," Pitman concluded.

David Nicholson has four entries, Scottish Grand National winner Moorcroft Boy 10st 6lb, St Mellion Fairway 10st, Billygoat Gruff 9st 13lb and Turning Trix 9st 7lb.

There is one Irish entry - Arthur Moore's Fissure Seal, who will carry 10st 2lb.