Nick Gifford surveyed the post-race scene with a shrug and a steely resolve.

Because for Findon-based Gifford, son of legendary Aldaniti trainer Josh, the Grand National ain't nothing but a family thing.

Joly Bey, the jewel in the crown of Gifford's young and developing stable, may not have triumphed around Aintree's fabled obstacles but he completed the course and finished a creditable 14th.

Punters love to talk about trends and stats, course form and speed figures - and those with a prospector's eye on 2006 will discount Joly Bey at their peril.

"We'll certainly be back," said Gifford. "The horse is only eight years old and it did superbly well to complete the course and the jockey gave him a great ride.

"I still think this horse is capable of winning the National. The legendary Ginger McCain thinks he's got a smashing chance and you can't argue with someone who has trained four National winners.

"This was the first time for horse, jockey and trainer and we'll only be better for next time."

Joly Bey's amateur jockey David Dunsdon, who was bought the horse for £240,000 by his millionaire father, ran a stalking race on his charge.

Despite his Aintree inexperience, he carefully avoided the carnage and moved to within striking distance five from home.

However, for those holding 16/1 on their slips, the expected surge never arrived and Dunsdon finished 69 lengths behind Ruby Walsh on winner and 7/1 favourite Hedgehunter.

"Despite all the advice I don't think anything could have prepared me for that," said Dunsdon, 22. "Maybe the ground wasn't ideal but he still gave me a great ride. Obviously I was out there to win, not just to finish, but he's proven he can handle the course for the future."

And the sentiments of young trainer and rider were echoed by a wise old sage, watching knowingly from the paddock.

"I thought he jumped well," added Josh Gifford. "I thought he may be a little short on experience but having a crack this year is only going to improve his chances next year.

"Hedgehunter fell at the last in 2004 and 12 months later he comes back and wins in impressive style."

So the dream is not over at Downs Stables, just on ice for another year.