WEST Somerset-based racehorse trainer Philip Hobbs has praised "tough" ten-year-old Balthazar King after his career-best second place in the Crabbie's Grand National.

The 14/1 shot was beaten by just five lengths by Pineau De Re, while Bilbrook stablemate Chance Du Roy came sixth.

Balthazar King only managed 15th in last year's national but this year was a very different story.

Jockey Richard Johnson held off Tony McCoy and Double Seven, who came third a length and a quarter behind.

"This is enormous for the horse and he is a superstar," said Philip.

"He is so consistent, tough and he tries so hard. I have enormous pride in him."

He said the horse had jumped well and everything had gone according to plan but, with three fences to go, he thought he would only finish fifth or sixth.

"He ran on really well and it's fantastic."