4:20 Punchestown - Herald Champion Novice Hurdle - Faugheen
Faugheen will be a warm order to follow up his Cheltenham victory as he drops back to the basement trip of 2 miles for the first time since his Bumper days. Of course he won the Neptune over two miles and five furlongs at the Festival but jumped much better bar two hurdles late on in the race. Connections will have learned a lot about him that day as it was his first real test which he passed with flying colours, but a drop to the minimum trip could see him be even better. He must take on seven opponents with five of them all falling victim to Faugheen's stable mate Vautour in the Supreme Novices back in March.
What does the future hold for Faugheen though? I said to many after Cheltenham that Faugheen looks more of a Champion Hurdle horse than Vautour despite winning at different distances, that is corrected this week however. Every time Faugheen has been asked to jump at a break neck pace he has excelled and last time saw him at his most fluent bar the two bad mistakes late on. Not overly one to take at his short price but definitely one to double up with a selection later on in the blog. (4/5)
4:55 Punchestown - Bragbet.com Handicap Hurdle - Dalasiri
The third race of the Punchestown Festival will likely cause a more competitive affair than the previous contest with an 18 runner handicap Hurdle. Sabrina Harty was successful at this meeting last year with Dalasiri and she bids to follow that up in 2014 with her stable star. More recently Dalasiri has been seen on the polytrack at Dundalk when running with credit behind Wither Hills over two miles. He was last seen over hurdles around two months ago when finishing 6th in a handicap over two and a half miles, so again we have a horse dropping in trip. The handicapper has reacted to that performance by lowering his handicap mark to two pounds which should help along with cheekpieces fitted for the first time.
Among the other 17 runners there are a few interesting ones and Lucky Bridle is sure to be popular but it's Arthur Moore's Sea Beat who could pose the biggest threat. The latter mention steps into handicap company for the first time today after landing his first victory on his third attempt in a Maiden hurdle beating Le Vent D'Antan. The most eye catching thing about him today is the monster four year old allowance, but Dalasiri is taken to land this event. (25/1)
5:30 Punchestown - Boylesports.com Champion Chase - Module
After Sprinter Sacre won this race last year, this term's renewal leaves a sour taste in the mouth but Sizing Europe runs in what his likely to be his swansong. In the absence of Sprinter Sacre Barry Geraghty takes the ride on Module for Tom George who was last seen when flying home late on in the Champion Chase at Cheltenham. He missed Aintree through a bout of Mild Colic but has seemingly recovered from that and takes his chance today. In truth two miles probably isn't his optimum trip but the slower ground today should help put his stamina to good use against his more experienced rivals. Earlier on in the season he was fancied in the Peterborough Chase before disappointing, but made amends for that by winning the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury before Cheltenham. Module to have his big day this season on his way to bigger things. (11/2)
6:40 Punchestown - Growise Champion Novice Chase - Djakadam
If you are unlucky enough to follow me on Twitter or have read my blog before, you will know how highly I rate Djakadam. Since his Juvenile days he has showed huge promise to match his ginormous frame and he hasn't disappointed over fences so far despite falling at Cheltenham. I was hesitant of his chances at the Festival this year as he is still only a five year old and didn't get the allowance he has had all season and today. He travelled very well until coming to grief four out when usually his jumping is one of his assets and it was until that mistake. Today will see him tackle three miles plus for the first time which should bring out more improvement and Ruby chooses him over Ballycasey. Djakadam to take all the beating and solidify his future Gold Cup claims. (3/1)
NAP - Djakadam
Nb - Faugheen
Double with Faugheen and Djakadam pays around 7/1 with Boylesports
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting!
Monday 28 April 2014
Friday 25 April 2014
Sandown Ace Rolled By Nicholls
Good Morning/Evening to you all, I hope you are all ready for a gruelling day of racing with testing ground pretty much assured all round. Today marks the official last day of the jumps season with the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown and the Celebration Chase which is a Grade 1 for the first time in it's history. Them races come from Sandown which is also the main meeting today but there are good support cards at Haydock and Ripon. There are also good evening cards at Doncaster and Wolverhampton whereas Leicester stage a seven race flat card in the afternoon. We only have one meeting in Ireland today and that comes courtesy of Limerick where Parish Hall seems to be the star attraction.
As always we have a video preview prepared for you which this week features myself, @Mytentoryours, @Adamwebb121 and a special visit from @RMBloodstock. Join us as we preview the day of racing and give our thoughts as well as some lovely colourful signs... You will understand if you watch it. Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_lAbXbfAwg
Now onto today's selections!
2:20 Haydock - Louis The Pious
Dave O'Meara has returned to form with a bang in the past few days with five winners from his last nine runners including one at Sandown yesterday. Louis The Pious however has been known to need a run so a recent outing at Pontefract will see him put race fit and a two pound ease in the handicap helps big time. One added positive is the fact he has been fitted with a hood for the first time in his life which should help him settle over a longer trip. I mentioned earlier that he has eased a couple of pounds in the handicap, which puts him two pounds lower than his performance when runner up in the Ayr Gold Cup last year. Unfortunately Pricewise has selected Louis The Pious but we should still get a good price about our first selection for today.
2:40 Sandown - Rolling Aces
Rolling Aces came good once more when beating all bar Boston Bob at Aintree in the Melling Chase, which was a big step up from his previous Ascot run. Earlier on in the season he had won a Grade Two over in Ireland when giving prolific winner Toner D'Oudairies a two length beating at Down Royal. Since then he has disappointed when beaten by Vino Griego here and was then pulled up behind Captain Chris at Ascot, but returned to form last time out as aforementioned. One negative would be that he must give Hunt Ball six pounds along with Menorah, but the ground should discount both of them as it will be very testing today after continuous rainfall yesterday. Rolling Aces to carry on the form of his last run and land another deserved success.
2:50 Ripon - Hillbilly Boy
Hillbilly Boy has improved 13 pounds since bought out of a Lingfield seller and put into training with Martin Smith. He proved that his mark is by no means beyond him when winning impressively at Doncaster under Andrea Atzeni last time out. That victory came over seven furlongs and was raised four pounds for the decisive manner of his performance, but a mark of 86 still looks lenient over this shorter trip. With the yard in flying form and Hillbilly Boy seemingly refinding his form for his new yard he is taken to score again.
4:25 Sandown - Medinas
Medinas has had an easy season so far after winning the 2013 Coral Cup off a mark of 148 but started this season well when finishing a length behind Tidal Bay. He was last seen when outclassed in the World Hurdle but this is much more his class with the improving Polly Peachum vying for favouritism. He must give weight away to all but Clondaw Kaempfer who he comfortably holds on the ratings and is closely matched with the main two in the betting. With the ground no issue for him and others having doubts about it we can take Medinas with some degree of confidence.
NAP - Medinas
Nb - Rolling Aces
As always good luck and happy punting today!
As always we have a video preview prepared for you which this week features myself, @Mytentoryours, @Adamwebb121 and a special visit from @RMBloodstock. Join us as we preview the day of racing and give our thoughts as well as some lovely colourful signs... You will understand if you watch it. Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_lAbXbfAwg
Now onto today's selections!
2:20 Haydock - Louis The Pious
Dave O'Meara has returned to form with a bang in the past few days with five winners from his last nine runners including one at Sandown yesterday. Louis The Pious however has been known to need a run so a recent outing at Pontefract will see him put race fit and a two pound ease in the handicap helps big time. One added positive is the fact he has been fitted with a hood for the first time in his life which should help him settle over a longer trip. I mentioned earlier that he has eased a couple of pounds in the handicap, which puts him two pounds lower than his performance when runner up in the Ayr Gold Cup last year. Unfortunately Pricewise has selected Louis The Pious but we should still get a good price about our first selection for today.
2:40 Sandown - Rolling Aces
Rolling Aces came good once more when beating all bar Boston Bob at Aintree in the Melling Chase, which was a big step up from his previous Ascot run. Earlier on in the season he had won a Grade Two over in Ireland when giving prolific winner Toner D'Oudairies a two length beating at Down Royal. Since then he has disappointed when beaten by Vino Griego here and was then pulled up behind Captain Chris at Ascot, but returned to form last time out as aforementioned. One negative would be that he must give Hunt Ball six pounds along with Menorah, but the ground should discount both of them as it will be very testing today after continuous rainfall yesterday. Rolling Aces to carry on the form of his last run and land another deserved success.
2:50 Ripon - Hillbilly Boy
Hillbilly Boy has improved 13 pounds since bought out of a Lingfield seller and put into training with Martin Smith. He proved that his mark is by no means beyond him when winning impressively at Doncaster under Andrea Atzeni last time out. That victory came over seven furlongs and was raised four pounds for the decisive manner of his performance, but a mark of 86 still looks lenient over this shorter trip. With the yard in flying form and Hillbilly Boy seemingly refinding his form for his new yard he is taken to score again.
4:25 Sandown - Medinas
Medinas has had an easy season so far after winning the 2013 Coral Cup off a mark of 148 but started this season well when finishing a length behind Tidal Bay. He was last seen when outclassed in the World Hurdle but this is much more his class with the improving Polly Peachum vying for favouritism. He must give weight away to all but Clondaw Kaempfer who he comfortably holds on the ratings and is closely matched with the main two in the betting. With the ground no issue for him and others having doubts about it we can take Medinas with some degree of confidence.
NAP - Medinas
Nb - Rolling Aces
As always good luck and happy punting today!
Friday 18 April 2014
Tart To Guide Ladies Home
Good Morning/Afternoon everyone, I hope you are all appreciating the long weekend and are ready to relax with your feet up in front of the racing. Last week was rescued with Top Diktat winning and Merry King placing in the Scottish National after the other two disappointed. One confession I have to make is that I opted against Night Of Thunder in the Greenham after seeing him in the parade ring. Kingman was impressive but Night Of Thunder really did not impress in the preliminaries and I would expect him to improve.
Racing today comes from Carlisle, Haydock and Newton Abbot with the feature meeting in the day coming from Kempton. The evening brings around two good cards at both Nottingham and Bath with Cork staging the only card in Ireland today. No video this week im afraid but four selections to sink your teeth into with one special feature at the end, enjoy!
2:55 Kempton - Zibelina
Godolphin's representative here is still unexposed after tasting defeat for the first time at Sandown late last season after winning her first three races. She comes into the race joint top rated with Zurigha who must give three pounds to the rest of the field making her task much harder. Zibelina's only defeat came behind the improving Integral who dead heated with Ladys First, with Shuruq back in third who has since gone on to victory in Meydan. That was undoubtedly a better race than she encounters this afternoon and if taking to the polytrack at Kempton she will be very hard to beat. (15/8)
5:05 Kempton - Clowance Estate
Clowance Estate can be considered unlucky with careful handling of the word after his last run at Kempton where he came fifth. After trying to pull himself up in the back straight and sacrificing around two lengths he is fitted with blinkers for the first time to keep him focused. As mentioned previously he lost around two lengths by jinking down the back straight, and in the end lost by a head and a nose to Castilo Del Diablo and Noble Silk. In first time blinkers Clowance Estate is taken to land his prize after throwing it away last time. (7/2)
7:00 Bath - Ladies Are Forever
A few of you may remember Ladies Are Forever who was an entrant on the blog back in March when very unlucky not to win after being hampered turning for home. She looks for redemption today at Bath with her beloved blinkers refitted after not taking to a visor or cheek pieces and back against her own sex. Robert Tart keeps the ride today, but it was Graham Lee who rode her when seventh in the Prix De L'Abbaye at Longchamp behind Maarek. Reroute is one who came in for plenty of support last night but she will have to improve a great deal to beat Ladies Are Forever. (7/2)
8:00 Bath - Tokyo Brown
Another one that you should all be familiar with here in Tokyo Brown who has frustrated a lot but rewarded patience with two victories lately. Heather Main's representative must run off his second highest mark today but was third off the same mark last time out over a shorter trip. He is a confirmed stayer at two miles which is more than can be said for others in the field but he hasn't been seen on turf since 2012. Personally I would argue that he has potential to be even better on turf after a third over course and distance when last seen on the surface. The pick of his turf form is in his last maiden when third to Clowance Estate who ironically makes an appearance on the blog earlier on. He is now rated 95 but beat Tokyo Brown by 12 and a quarter lengths which could see some more improvement in the selection. Tokyo Brown to gain his first turf success. (7/1)
My girlfriend has also requested she features in this week's blog with her own selection from a more left field course. Go and show her some love by following her on twitter @RMBloodstock and thank her for the winner she is about to give... Hopefully!
Rebecca's Choice - Race 6 Aqueduct - Point Roll
The Christophe Clement trained Point Roll is one you'd struggle to miss in the parade ring, oozing presence and looks the real deal. They took their time for a while with this horse but he is one Clement has been very excited about for a long time. I was lucky enough to exercise him a couple of times on Payson Park track earlier this year, he has a great stride and certainly has a type of class that is rare to find. He ran at Gulfstream last month under a very tender ride, but he shouldn't find this question at Aqueduct too much of a challenge. Definitely one to watch!
NAP - Zibelina
Nb - Ladies Are Forever
Good luck today and as always, happy punting
Racing today comes from Carlisle, Haydock and Newton Abbot with the feature meeting in the day coming from Kempton. The evening brings around two good cards at both Nottingham and Bath with Cork staging the only card in Ireland today. No video this week im afraid but four selections to sink your teeth into with one special feature at the end, enjoy!
2:55 Kempton - Zibelina
Godolphin's representative here is still unexposed after tasting defeat for the first time at Sandown late last season after winning her first three races. She comes into the race joint top rated with Zurigha who must give three pounds to the rest of the field making her task much harder. Zibelina's only defeat came behind the improving Integral who dead heated with Ladys First, with Shuruq back in third who has since gone on to victory in Meydan. That was undoubtedly a better race than she encounters this afternoon and if taking to the polytrack at Kempton she will be very hard to beat. (15/8)
5:05 Kempton - Clowance Estate
Clowance Estate can be considered unlucky with careful handling of the word after his last run at Kempton where he came fifth. After trying to pull himself up in the back straight and sacrificing around two lengths he is fitted with blinkers for the first time to keep him focused. As mentioned previously he lost around two lengths by jinking down the back straight, and in the end lost by a head and a nose to Castilo Del Diablo and Noble Silk. In first time blinkers Clowance Estate is taken to land his prize after throwing it away last time. (7/2)
7:00 Bath - Ladies Are Forever
A few of you may remember Ladies Are Forever who was an entrant on the blog back in March when very unlucky not to win after being hampered turning for home. She looks for redemption today at Bath with her beloved blinkers refitted after not taking to a visor or cheek pieces and back against her own sex. Robert Tart keeps the ride today, but it was Graham Lee who rode her when seventh in the Prix De L'Abbaye at Longchamp behind Maarek. Reroute is one who came in for plenty of support last night but she will have to improve a great deal to beat Ladies Are Forever. (7/2)
8:00 Bath - Tokyo Brown
Another one that you should all be familiar with here in Tokyo Brown who has frustrated a lot but rewarded patience with two victories lately. Heather Main's representative must run off his second highest mark today but was third off the same mark last time out over a shorter trip. He is a confirmed stayer at two miles which is more than can be said for others in the field but he hasn't been seen on turf since 2012. Personally I would argue that he has potential to be even better on turf after a third over course and distance when last seen on the surface. The pick of his turf form is in his last maiden when third to Clowance Estate who ironically makes an appearance on the blog earlier on. He is now rated 95 but beat Tokyo Brown by 12 and a quarter lengths which could see some more improvement in the selection. Tokyo Brown to gain his first turf success. (7/1)
My girlfriend has also requested she features in this week's blog with her own selection from a more left field course. Go and show her some love by following her on twitter @RMBloodstock and thank her for the winner she is about to give... Hopefully!
Rebecca's Choice - Race 6 Aqueduct - Point Roll
The Christophe Clement trained Point Roll is one you'd struggle to miss in the parade ring, oozing presence and looks the real deal. They took their time for a while with this horse but he is one Clement has been very excited about for a long time. I was lucky enough to exercise him a couple of times on Payson Park track earlier this year, he has a great stride and certainly has a type of class that is rare to find. He ran at Gulfstream last month under a very tender ride, but he shouldn't find this question at Aqueduct too much of a challenge. Definitely one to watch!
NAP - Zibelina
Nb - Ladies Are Forever
Good luck today and as always, happy punting
Friday 11 April 2014
Newbury To Be Shaded By Night
Good Evening/Morning to you all, Aintree is over and now the flat season is getting into full swing with a key Guineas trial this afternoon at Newbury. I speak of course about the Greenham which was won last year by Olympic Glory and in 2011 went the way of Frankel who both went on to better things. Kingman is the short priced favourite for this year but has by no means an easy task with other Guineas candidates in the line up. Elsewhere in the country there is racing at Bangor, Wolverhampton and Thirsk as well as Ayr who stage the Scottish National and Scottish Champion Hurdle this afternoon. There is one meeting over in Ireland his afternoon from Navan who stage a seven race flat card.
As always we have a preview video for today's action prepared for you in which we cover all the Channel 4 races as well as the other notable races of the day. Joining me on the panel are the usual suspects of @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell, we hope you enjoy the video!
http://youtu.be/sU6IXzVrL0A
Now onto the selections!
1:50 Newbury - Mutashaded
Roger Varian saddles the lightly races Mutashaded for today's first runner after ending last season with a good third behind Hillstar at Royal Ascot. He was never closer than at the finish that day when staying on nicely behind Battle Of Marengo and the aforementioned Hillstar, but that was on Good to Firm. Yesterday the ground at Newbury wasn't quite soft but was certainly on the softer side of good which will suit the scopey individual of Mutashaded. Before his Ascot effort he was impressive at Sandown when showing a good turn of foot up the hill to beat Noble Bull and Theodore Gericault. The last point to make is that Newbury should play to his every strength unlike Ascot as it is a more galloping track, which would appear to be what he needs. As for the others in the field, Noble Mission is sure to give his running but finds winning hard to come by and the main danger could be from the improving Pether's Moon. (9/2)
2:55 Newbury - Night Of Thunder
This year's Greenham looks to revolve around the exciting prospect of Kingman who was one of the most impressive two year olds last season, however injury cut his season short. Until a couple of weeks ago, Night Of Thunder was the forgotten horse in the 2000 Guineas betting market but has since shortened despite the same yard having Toormore. Today's selection left a smile on the faces of many racegoers when winning very impressively by three lengths at Doncaster last season. The race is full of class and other than the obvious threat of Kingman there are other contenders looking to boost their Classic claims. Berkshire won the Chesham last year but it would seem that he will need further this year and the bigger danger could be the unexposed Lat Hawill. (4/1)
3:50 Ayr - Merry King
Merry King has been called just about every name under the sun in his time and not all of them were overly positive, but he is stamina laden which is crucial for today's race. Thanks to Tidal Bay he is officially two pounds out of the handicap today, but the five pound claim of Maurice Linehan negates that and takes off a further three. Linehan gets the ride as his usual pilots are unable to take the ride, firstly through AP McCoy who can't do the weight and secondly Richie McLernon who is sidelined. We last saw Merry King when pulled up at Haydock in the Grand National Trial, but that is best forgotten as nothing went right that day after being hampered early. Before that he has been third in the Peter Marsh after two staying on efforts in the Welsh National and the Hennessy behind Triolo D'alene. He is off his lowest mark since 2012 today with the rider's claim taken into account and an finally break his eight race losing streak. (20/1)
4:40 Newbury - Top Diktat
Gary Moore was out of luck yesterday at Newbury with Dutch Masterpiece but can gain small compensation here with Top Diktat who is on a hat-trick bid. Both of them wins have come at Kempton on the All Weather with the first one being in January, but he followed up in February off a seven pound higher mark. He is just four pounds higher than that effort today and with Ryan Moore on board has every chance to make it three wins from as many runs. The second and third from his last run have since franked the form by winning or placing in their efforts after the race and off higher marks as well. If he can translate his form onto the turf then Top Diktat could take some stopping today. (13/2)
NAP - Night Of Thunder
Nb - Mutashaded
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
As always we have a preview video for today's action prepared for you in which we cover all the Channel 4 races as well as the other notable races of the day. Joining me on the panel are the usual suspects of @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell, we hope you enjoy the video!
http://youtu.be/sU6IXzVrL0A
Now onto the selections!
1:50 Newbury - Mutashaded
Roger Varian saddles the lightly races Mutashaded for today's first runner after ending last season with a good third behind Hillstar at Royal Ascot. He was never closer than at the finish that day when staying on nicely behind Battle Of Marengo and the aforementioned Hillstar, but that was on Good to Firm. Yesterday the ground at Newbury wasn't quite soft but was certainly on the softer side of good which will suit the scopey individual of Mutashaded. Before his Ascot effort he was impressive at Sandown when showing a good turn of foot up the hill to beat Noble Bull and Theodore Gericault. The last point to make is that Newbury should play to his every strength unlike Ascot as it is a more galloping track, which would appear to be what he needs. As for the others in the field, Noble Mission is sure to give his running but finds winning hard to come by and the main danger could be from the improving Pether's Moon. (9/2)
2:55 Newbury - Night Of Thunder
This year's Greenham looks to revolve around the exciting prospect of Kingman who was one of the most impressive two year olds last season, however injury cut his season short. Until a couple of weeks ago, Night Of Thunder was the forgotten horse in the 2000 Guineas betting market but has since shortened despite the same yard having Toormore. Today's selection left a smile on the faces of many racegoers when winning very impressively by three lengths at Doncaster last season. The race is full of class and other than the obvious threat of Kingman there are other contenders looking to boost their Classic claims. Berkshire won the Chesham last year but it would seem that he will need further this year and the bigger danger could be the unexposed Lat Hawill. (4/1)
3:50 Ayr - Merry King
Merry King has been called just about every name under the sun in his time and not all of them were overly positive, but he is stamina laden which is crucial for today's race. Thanks to Tidal Bay he is officially two pounds out of the handicap today, but the five pound claim of Maurice Linehan negates that and takes off a further three. Linehan gets the ride as his usual pilots are unable to take the ride, firstly through AP McCoy who can't do the weight and secondly Richie McLernon who is sidelined. We last saw Merry King when pulled up at Haydock in the Grand National Trial, but that is best forgotten as nothing went right that day after being hampered early. Before that he has been third in the Peter Marsh after two staying on efforts in the Welsh National and the Hennessy behind Triolo D'alene. He is off his lowest mark since 2012 today with the rider's claim taken into account and an finally break his eight race losing streak. (20/1)
4:40 Newbury - Top Diktat
Gary Moore was out of luck yesterday at Newbury with Dutch Masterpiece but can gain small compensation here with Top Diktat who is on a hat-trick bid. Both of them wins have come at Kempton on the All Weather with the first one being in January, but he followed up in February off a seven pound higher mark. He is just four pounds higher than that effort today and with Ryan Moore on board has every chance to make it three wins from as many runs. The second and third from his last run have since franked the form by winning or placing in their efforts after the race and off higher marks as well. If he can translate his form onto the turf then Top Diktat could take some stopping today. (13/2)
NAP - Night Of Thunder
Nb - Mutashaded
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
Friday 4 April 2014
Grand National Runner By Runner Analysis
Video Preview of the Grand National
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_unbfZ_JOiA
Tidal Bay
One of the class acts in the field but pays for that with the welter burden of top weight but has lost little of his sparkle in his old age although can have his quirks. Was last seen when flying home from an impossible position in the Hennessy at Leopardstown to grab second on the line, including beating the Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere. Trainer Paul Nicholls won this race two years ago with Neptune Collonges but his only appearance in a National resulted in him unseating his rider. Considered and would be no surprise if he ran a big one, but can be opposed with a few in the race. Rating - 8/10
Long Run
Not the force of old but showed glimpses of his former self when winning a run of the mill contest up at Kelso in good style. The major worry for him around here is his jumping as he has been found wanting in that department before but he should have no problems in the stamina department. He won the Cheltenham Gold Cup back in 2011 beating Denman and Kauto Star but he isn't the same horse he was back then. Sam Waley Cohen is the only amateur rider in the race but his record round these fences is sublime, including a victory on Thursday in the Foxhunters on Warne. Again considered but needs to return to somewhere near his best to win this. Rating - 7/10
Hunt Ball
Rose to the big time a couple of seasons ago when winning seven out of nine races including at the Cheltenham Festival and a third in the Betfred Bowl here. Things haven't gone his way at the highest level since then and he failed to sparkle in America down to no fault of his own but is back with a top trainer. He showed that he still retains plenty of ability when third at Ascot behind Captain Chris over two and a half miles, before a good fourth over the same distance at Cheltenham. Worries about his jumping around here and serious worries about his stamina can see him discarded today. Rating 5/10
Triolo D'alene
An admirable seven year old who has paid his way recently with two victories to end last year including a win over these fences in the Topham. On his second outing this season he won the Hennessy at Newbury when generally unfancied at 20/1 before having a long break mid-season. He made his reappearance at Cheltenham in the Gold Cup when totally outclassed but steps back into Handicap company today and course form is a plus. Barry Geraghty chooses him over Hunt Ball but a few others are fancied, even on his best form. Rating - 6/10
Rocky Creek
Yet to live up to the tall reputation he was awarded by connections at the start of last season but has run some good races in hot contests. He found only Triolo D'alene too good in the Hennessy before losing to strong stayer Harry Topper in the Argento at Cheltenham. He has been awarded a mark of 156 which could be a bit high but this race has been in the pipeline for some time and will be fighting fit on the day. The assistance from the saddle of Noel Fehily is a huge bonus as he has been in great form lately but the horse is likely to come up short. 6/10
Quito De La Roque
The first Irish contender on the list and not their strongest one with Quito De La Roque who hasn't won since January 2013 at Thurles. Jumping and Stamina wont be an issue but he is a shadow of his former self when a dual Grade One winner back in 2011, but just the one win since then. Consistent enough but that isn't good enough here and he finds winning hard to do so for that reason he is easily brushed aside. Rating - 3/10
Colbert Station
Fancied last year off a two pound lower mark and his race ended prematurely when unseating AP McCoy at The Chair. He has posted a few laboured effort since last years race but the clear pick of his recent form is his third behind Cootamundra at Navan, which will need significantly improving on. Stamina shouldn't be a problem but AP McCoy prefers Double Seven and like him, others are preferred. Rating - 5/10
Walkon
Alan King's Grey Gelding has been very disappointing so far this season in two stars but was running well on his return when unseating Robert Thornton. The other stable jockey Wayne Hutchinson takes the ride today which is no negative and he has finished no worse than third on the horse in three attempts. He ended last season on an upward curve when fifth at Cheltenham and second over these fences behind Triolo D'alene. Jumping is no worry whatsoever but stamina is a major doubt as the furthest he has won over is two miles shorter than today, and hasn't won since late 2011. More than useful on his day but overlooked today. Rating - 4/10
Balthazar King
Balthazar King has made the Cheltenham Cross Country races his own in the last few years and ran well for a long way here last season before tiring. He jumped with great zest that day and thoroughly enjoyed himself but aggressive tactics may have found him out a little over this monster trip. Richard Johnson has partnered him in 13 of his 14 successes including victories in his last four races, including one in France. Slightly more restrained tactics could help him today and as long as he gets his slice of luck he'll be a major player, but did have a hard race at Cheltenham and any rain would hinder his chances. Strong place claims and good chances of winning the big prize. Rating - 8/10
Wayward Prince
Hails from the small yard of Hilary Parrott and he has won at Aintree before, albeit on the Mildmay Course and it is unknown how he will handle the National fences. His form can be a bit indifferent in the sense that when he is good he is very good but more regularly hits the opposite end of the scale. Looks up against it today but it would be no surprise to see him go well for a while. Rating - 3/10
Mr Moonshine
Representing the team who won the race last year of Ryan Mania and Sue Smith and is more than capable on his day, but he has had a hard campaign this time around. Jumping is very much his forte and stamina isn't too much of an issue but his class may let him down in this class of race. He looks to leave behind a disappointing effort last year when pulled up before the 27th fence when well behind and tired. Very good on his day and fitness wont be lacking but others are preferred. Rating - 5/10
Teaforthree
Last year's third off 151 and was all but leading over the last before stamina emptied on the run in after an attacking ride from Nick Scholfield. He was passed late on by Cappa Bleu who was held up out of the race and has been the ante-post favourite for some time. His jumping and stamina are assured and it's hard to pick holes in his form after a very good prep run at Ascot, before showing up well for a long way in the Gold Cup. The Handicapper has assigned him a mark of 149 to run off this season which is two pounds lower than last year and his overall profile is rock solid. Providing he runs his race he will be very hard to beat and its near impossible to see him out of the places if he makes it round. Rating - 9/10
Across The Bay
Fourteenth in this race last year and eighth in the Becher Chaser over these fences earlier this season behind Chance Du Roy. As a Novice he promised so much but never really made it as a top class chaser and as a result was stuck with a high handicap mark, so he has found life tough lately. Stamina wont be a problem and his jumping is usually pretty good but he is yet to get close on two attempts over these fences. His attitude couldn't be faulted two runs ago when staying on well to win over three and a half miles at Haydock but he unseated last time out. Overall he isn't without a chance but others are preferred ahead of him and its hard to see him realistically winning. Rating - 5/10
Double Seven
The mount of 18 time Champion Jockey AP McCoy who won this race back in 2011 on Don't Push It for his boss JP McManus who he rides for here. Double Seven had notched up six wins on the bounce before finding things happening too quickly for him over two and a half miles last time out. Stamina shouldn't be too much of a problem as he has won over in excess of three miles before, however he does have to deal with a career high handicap mark and he lacks the physical scope of some of these. The McCoy factor is sure to see him go off a much shorter price than he should and he isn't without a chance but he may come up short for win purposes. Rating - 6/10
Battle Group
Now for a runner who has a mind of his own in Battle Group who looked as if his rebellious days we behind him when winning three on the bounce late last season. Them three wins all came for Kevin Bishop and since joining his new yard he has gained three letters next to his name in the racecard. He started off by being pulled up in the Paddy Power Gold Cup before disgracing himself and refusing to race at Newbury and he was also pulled up last time. In all seriousness, even his best form wouldn't be good enough to win this and it is no certainty that he will even start the race after his Newbury exploits, easily opposed. Rating - 2/10
Buckers Bridge
Buckers Bridge is still relatively lightly raced for a National contender as he has only graced the racecourse with his presence eight times. He tackled a true stamina testing trip for the first time in his most recent run where he passed the test in third behind On His Own and Mount Benbulben. More will be needed today but he remains somewhat an unknown quantity which could be both for and against him in a National. On one hand he may be far better than we have previously seen, however he may also lack experience on the big stage. Connections also have the first reserve in the race who would have a better chance so it could be that Buckers Bridge is withdrawn to make room for Goonyella. If allowed to take his chance then Buckers Bridge could surprise a few here but winning may be too much to ask. Rating - 6/10
Lion Na Bearnai
The only twelve year old in the race is Lion Na Bearnai who is already a National winner, albeit an Irish National, but nonetheless a National. Stamina is assured here and is the chosen ride of Gold Cup winning jockey Davy Russell, although Lion Na Bearnai has his first stab at a National late in life. He wont mind what ground it is come race day as he performs on all going but faster ground would be preferred if anything. We last saw him when 33 lengths behind Buckers Bridge but it is safe to say he is better than that showing and he has solid place chances if taking to the fences. Rating - 6/10
Prince De Beauchene
A serious contender in Prince De Beauchene who represents the Champion Irish Trainer Willie Mullins who tasted success in this race with Hedgehunter in 2005. He has promised a lot in past seasons before getting little injuries that have ruled him out of the National, but this year he finally gets here in one piece. The last win to his name was in the Bobbyjo Chase in 2012 over three miles and a furlong so stamina isn't a huge problem and jumping isn't a worry here. He was in the process of running a big race in the Hennessy at Newbury before making a couple of bad mistakes at the wrong time and losing too much ground, that run is forgiven. He has since struggled in a Grade One which is probably above his ability and more recently was a good fourth over two and a half miles which is too short for him. The Handicapper has finally relented and given him a chance back in a handicap from his lofty 150+ ratings and has put him on 147 for today. Paul Townend fills in for the injured Ruby Walsh and Prince De Beauchene is taken to win the Grand National of 2014. Rating 9/10
Monbeg Dude
Michael Scudamore doesn't have a lot of horses but he does have a more than live National hope here with Monbeg Dude. He burst onto the scene in 2012 with a battling win at Cheltenham before going on to beat Teaforthree in the Welsh National under a brilliant Paul Carberry ride. Last season a soft ground Cheltenham enticed connections into a crack at the Gold Cup but that plan never really came to fruition as he was pulled up. However this season it has been all systems go for the National and he had a perfect prep run at Doncaster in the Grimthorpe Chase when a staying on fifth. Stamina is clearly no issue for him however he is prone to the odd jumping error and for that reason he can be opposed here. Rating - 7/10
Big Shu
Big Shu is the second horse in today's race to be considered a Cross Country specialist as he wont the Cheltenham Cross Country race last season, before going on to win the La Touche at Punchestown. In his last three outings, Big Shu has carried 11-9, 12-0 and 12-3 which when put against today's weight of 10-8 are huge asks. Stamina is at a premium here and his jumping should hold up over these fences and if all things go well he shouldn't be far away for Peter Buchanan. Rating - 7/10
Burton Port
Once top class and now with Jonjo O'Neill who won the race with Don't Push It back in 2010, however injuries have limited his career to date. He showed that he still has plenty of his old sparkle when jumping for fun at Newbury last time out before getting tired late on, there were excuses that day however. Brian Harding takes the ride on him today which is no negative but both of Jonjo's jockeys ride other horses in the race. A return to his best form would see him close but he is a big fragile these days and for win purposes we look elsewhere. Rating - 5/10
Our Father
Came into this season with a lofty reputation after a good Novice season and was sent off the 11/2 favourite in the Hennessy, but could do no better than seventh. Since then he has come a distant fifth in a National Trial at Haydock and a once more distant ninth at Cheltenham, but all roads this season have pointed towards here. The blinkers stay on today and Denis O'Regan has gone close in Nationals before on Black Apalachi while David Pipe wont this with Comply Or Die in 2008. Would be no surprise to see him go well for a while but in all seriousness he shouldn't be good enough here and others are preferred. Rating - 4/10
Mountainous
Won this season's Welsh National in tenacious style and clearly has no stamina worries to deal with but the ground is a worry. Mountainous is better on softer ground which he wont be getting today, saying that he has ran well on better ground before but came up short. He runs off a 13 pound higher mark than he did for his Welsh National victory today and looks up against it but will be staying on when others have cried enough. Rating - 4/10
The Rainbow Hunter
Landed a victory in the Skybet Chase at Doncaster which is seen as a trial for this race in good style beating Baile Anrai by a length and a half. There is no owner more excited about the race this year than Racing UK presenter Oli Bell as he owns a share in this challenger, so we wont be too harsh... Will we? He came here as an unfancied 50/1 shot last season and was jumping well before unseating Aidan Coleman at the Canal Turn through no fault of his own. If he can avoid trouble throughout the race then he wont be far away and is a very exciting addition to the field, with Aidan Coleman taking over from Nick Scholfield who prefers Teaforthree. Let's not forget that last season he was second in the race... Albeit without his jockey. Rating - 7/10
Vintage Star
Sue Smith won this race last year with Aurora's Encore and excels with staying chasers but Vintage Star is shunned by Ryan Mania who prefers Mr Moonshine. Brian Hughes takes over in the saddle today and he if he gets round he shouldn't be a million miles away but his jumping let him down last time at Cheltenham. Prior to that he was second in a gruelling Peter Marsh chase after a good sixth in the Welsh National behind Mountainous at Chepstow. Place chances at best but in all seriousness he should be found wanting in this race. Rating - 4/10
Chance Du Roy
Chance Du Roy will be given a chance by many after he won the Becher Chase in December over three miles and two furlongs. He has disappointed since when a dismal show at Haydock saw him pulled up early but he showed a slight return to form when fourth at Ascot last time out. That effort came with cheek pieces on first time and they stay on today but he will need to improve considerably to trouble the protagonists today. Rating - 5/10
Hawkes Point
Paul Nicholls' representative was given a favourable mention on our Cheltenham preview when joined by Nick Scholfield. He was beaten a head in this year's Welsh National but remains a lightly raced horse and may have a bit more improvement in him. The ground accounted for him last time at Haydock although he did manage a distant sixth, but better ground will suit him better today. Providing he can take to these fences he is one of the more lively outsiders with Ryan Mahon on board who has excelled in big races this season. Rating - 7/10
Kruzhlinin
The McCain family are synonymous with this race with the likes of Red Rum, Amberleigh House and Ballabriggs, but Kruzhlinin is unlikely to add to those names. He is better on good ground and Stamina isn't much of a worry, but he should be nowhere near the class of these today and is easily opposed. Rating - 2/10
Pineau De Re
Dr Richard Newland has an interesting one here with Pineau De Re who ran the most eyecatching race at Cheltenham when flying home late for third in the Pertemps. Before that he won a veterans chase in nice style but must run off a ten pound higher mark today which will make like tougher for him. His only visit to the National fences saw him come down at the eighth in the Becher Chase late last year under Brian Hughes. Lleighton Aspell takes the ride today and if he were to get round he will take a lot of beating with stamina a given. Rating - 8/10
Golan Way
A bit of a surprise they elected to turn up here but he did win a decent Hunter Chase last time out and his best form would hand him a small chance. Saying that he hasn't been at his best for years now and the easy lead that he craves wont be so easy here, for that he is easily overlooked. Rating - 1/10
Twirling Magnet
Jonjo O'Neill knows what it takes to win this race but Twirling Magnet looks up against it this afternoon after regressing since his Cheltenham win in October. He travelled well for a long way at the Festival but weakened and unseated his rider two out when beaten, so he will need more here. Richie McLernon takes the ride who was second by a nose hair on Sunnyhillboy back in 2012, but it would be a surprise if he got close this year. Rating - 2/10
Vesper Bell
Looked to be going the right way when an unlucky seventh in last year's Kim Muir at Cheltenham before a good staying performance to come second in Ireland. That was behind Goonyella who just missed out on the race this year and Vesper Bell has since disappointed in a big way, more importantly when falling at the first over these fences earlier this season. If he jumps round and returns to his best form he could be given a chance, but that is a very big if. Rating 4/10
The Package
David Pipe must be blaming The Package for his lack of hair as he has built up this trait of running well at Cheltenham then getting a small injury before the National. But this year he has made it to the race and although his only visit to these fences resulted in him unseating Graham Lee. He was a promising third behind Holywell at Cheltenham however and his stamina is clearly no issue, but he is 11 years old now and this will likely be his last chance at a National. Not discounted but he will need to improve on his recent form for win purposes. Rating - 7/10
Raz De Maree
This race has long been the aim for Raz De Maree for Dessie Hughes but he hasn't won since 2012 when winning the Cork National. He did however run a nice prep race at Down Royal behind Yes Tom, but he was outsider of the field that day and will need to improve significantly. From eight pounds higher in the handicap than his last win he could go close if a first time visor perks him up, but his price reflects his chances. Rating - 5/10
Rose Of The Moon
Dave O'Meara saddles an interesting one here in Rose Of The Moon although his one run over these fences wouldn't fill you with confidence when 10th in the Becher. He won a good race at Wetherby last time out however and has Cheek Pieces fitted for the first time today to get some more improvement. But on all known form he shouldn't be good enough here. Rating - 2/10
Shakalakaboomboom
If there were prizes given out for the best name in the race then Shakalakaboomboom would be an odds on favourite, but he isn't that on ability. He had his problems after coming ninth in the race in 2012 when running well for a long way, but he didn't stay on that occasion and that is again the worry today. Rating - 4/10
Alvarado
These silks are one of the most successful colours in the history of the race despite not winning, it seems every year they are in the placings. But Alvarado is their new horse to go to war with after winning impressively at Cheltenham two runs ago when staying very well. He was disappointing at Cheltenham on New Year's Day but that is easily forgiven as the conditions were near monsoon like. He will need to improve but it wouldn't be beyond him and gets in off a fly weight of 10-2. Rating - 5/10
Last Time D'albain
The last Irish raider in the field now with Last Time D'albain who has been disappointing since a good third over these fences in last year's Topham. The handicapper has been kind and he is only two pounds higher than his last visit here but on recent form its hard to give him too much of a chance. Rating - 3/10
One In A Milan
Evan Williams has a good record here with the likes of State Of Play and Cappa Bleu who was second last year, but its a big ask for him to improve on that here. Stamina is clearly no worry after a fourth in the Welsh National, but he had no weight that day and on bottomless ground it was the key. Promising young jockey Adam Wedge takes the ride but its difficult to see One In A Milan being good enough today. Rating - 3/10
Swing Bill
We come to the final horse for this year's Grand National and we started with a 13 year old so we shall also end with one. Swing Bill got into the race in controversial style through a random ballot but has a good record round these fences on more than one occasion. Last year saw him run a good sixth and from a four pound lower mark is no lost cause albeit this will be his last chance to win a National. Not completely dismissed and his price tag could be too big for a horse proven round the course, but others are preferred. Rating 5/10
1st - Prince De Beauchene
2nd - Teaforthree
3rd - The Rainbow Hunter
4th - The Package
Prince De Beauchene represents a top yard from Ireland and has been unlucky when not making the race in past years but is here this season off a good mark. There are stamina doubts regarding him but as long as his jumping holds up there shouldn't be too many problems regarding stamina. One horse who has jumping assured is Teaforthree who was third in this last year and may improve on that with less assertive tactics. The Rainbow Hunter came down here last season but that was through no fault of his own and is one that could be a bit overpriced after winning the Skybet. The best of the David Pipe lot could well be The Package who like the selection has missed Nationals through injuries before, but his jumping is his asset. Others that could get involved include Balthazar King who has won his last four and loved the fences here last year and Pineau De Re wont be far away if jumping well. Hawkes Point is stamina laden and the fences should provide no problem for him but he may be better next year as he remains inexperienced. AP McCoy rides Double Seven who is a clear stayer and is sure to be popular in the market, whereas Monbeg Dude will be stalking at the back of the field with Tidal Bay.
Good Luck everybody and as always, Happy Punting!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_unbfZ_JOiA
Tidal Bay
One of the class acts in the field but pays for that with the welter burden of top weight but has lost little of his sparkle in his old age although can have his quirks. Was last seen when flying home from an impossible position in the Hennessy at Leopardstown to grab second on the line, including beating the Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere. Trainer Paul Nicholls won this race two years ago with Neptune Collonges but his only appearance in a National resulted in him unseating his rider. Considered and would be no surprise if he ran a big one, but can be opposed with a few in the race. Rating - 8/10
Long Run
Not the force of old but showed glimpses of his former self when winning a run of the mill contest up at Kelso in good style. The major worry for him around here is his jumping as he has been found wanting in that department before but he should have no problems in the stamina department. He won the Cheltenham Gold Cup back in 2011 beating Denman and Kauto Star but he isn't the same horse he was back then. Sam Waley Cohen is the only amateur rider in the race but his record round these fences is sublime, including a victory on Thursday in the Foxhunters on Warne. Again considered but needs to return to somewhere near his best to win this. Rating - 7/10
Hunt Ball
Rose to the big time a couple of seasons ago when winning seven out of nine races including at the Cheltenham Festival and a third in the Betfred Bowl here. Things haven't gone his way at the highest level since then and he failed to sparkle in America down to no fault of his own but is back with a top trainer. He showed that he still retains plenty of ability when third at Ascot behind Captain Chris over two and a half miles, before a good fourth over the same distance at Cheltenham. Worries about his jumping around here and serious worries about his stamina can see him discarded today. Rating 5/10
Triolo D'alene
An admirable seven year old who has paid his way recently with two victories to end last year including a win over these fences in the Topham. On his second outing this season he won the Hennessy at Newbury when generally unfancied at 20/1 before having a long break mid-season. He made his reappearance at Cheltenham in the Gold Cup when totally outclassed but steps back into Handicap company today and course form is a plus. Barry Geraghty chooses him over Hunt Ball but a few others are fancied, even on his best form. Rating - 6/10
Rocky Creek
Yet to live up to the tall reputation he was awarded by connections at the start of last season but has run some good races in hot contests. He found only Triolo D'alene too good in the Hennessy before losing to strong stayer Harry Topper in the Argento at Cheltenham. He has been awarded a mark of 156 which could be a bit high but this race has been in the pipeline for some time and will be fighting fit on the day. The assistance from the saddle of Noel Fehily is a huge bonus as he has been in great form lately but the horse is likely to come up short. 6/10
Quito De La Roque
The first Irish contender on the list and not their strongest one with Quito De La Roque who hasn't won since January 2013 at Thurles. Jumping and Stamina wont be an issue but he is a shadow of his former self when a dual Grade One winner back in 2011, but just the one win since then. Consistent enough but that isn't good enough here and he finds winning hard to do so for that reason he is easily brushed aside. Rating - 3/10
Colbert Station
Fancied last year off a two pound lower mark and his race ended prematurely when unseating AP McCoy at The Chair. He has posted a few laboured effort since last years race but the clear pick of his recent form is his third behind Cootamundra at Navan, which will need significantly improving on. Stamina shouldn't be a problem but AP McCoy prefers Double Seven and like him, others are preferred. Rating - 5/10
Walkon
Alan King's Grey Gelding has been very disappointing so far this season in two stars but was running well on his return when unseating Robert Thornton. The other stable jockey Wayne Hutchinson takes the ride today which is no negative and he has finished no worse than third on the horse in three attempts. He ended last season on an upward curve when fifth at Cheltenham and second over these fences behind Triolo D'alene. Jumping is no worry whatsoever but stamina is a major doubt as the furthest he has won over is two miles shorter than today, and hasn't won since late 2011. More than useful on his day but overlooked today. Rating - 4/10
Balthazar King
Balthazar King has made the Cheltenham Cross Country races his own in the last few years and ran well for a long way here last season before tiring. He jumped with great zest that day and thoroughly enjoyed himself but aggressive tactics may have found him out a little over this monster trip. Richard Johnson has partnered him in 13 of his 14 successes including victories in his last four races, including one in France. Slightly more restrained tactics could help him today and as long as he gets his slice of luck he'll be a major player, but did have a hard race at Cheltenham and any rain would hinder his chances. Strong place claims and good chances of winning the big prize. Rating - 8/10
Wayward Prince
Hails from the small yard of Hilary Parrott and he has won at Aintree before, albeit on the Mildmay Course and it is unknown how he will handle the National fences. His form can be a bit indifferent in the sense that when he is good he is very good but more regularly hits the opposite end of the scale. Looks up against it today but it would be no surprise to see him go well for a while. Rating - 3/10
Mr Moonshine
Representing the team who won the race last year of Ryan Mania and Sue Smith and is more than capable on his day, but he has had a hard campaign this time around. Jumping is very much his forte and stamina isn't too much of an issue but his class may let him down in this class of race. He looks to leave behind a disappointing effort last year when pulled up before the 27th fence when well behind and tired. Very good on his day and fitness wont be lacking but others are preferred. Rating - 5/10
Teaforthree
Last year's third off 151 and was all but leading over the last before stamina emptied on the run in after an attacking ride from Nick Scholfield. He was passed late on by Cappa Bleu who was held up out of the race and has been the ante-post favourite for some time. His jumping and stamina are assured and it's hard to pick holes in his form after a very good prep run at Ascot, before showing up well for a long way in the Gold Cup. The Handicapper has assigned him a mark of 149 to run off this season which is two pounds lower than last year and his overall profile is rock solid. Providing he runs his race he will be very hard to beat and its near impossible to see him out of the places if he makes it round. Rating - 9/10
Across The Bay
Fourteenth in this race last year and eighth in the Becher Chaser over these fences earlier this season behind Chance Du Roy. As a Novice he promised so much but never really made it as a top class chaser and as a result was stuck with a high handicap mark, so he has found life tough lately. Stamina wont be a problem and his jumping is usually pretty good but he is yet to get close on two attempts over these fences. His attitude couldn't be faulted two runs ago when staying on well to win over three and a half miles at Haydock but he unseated last time out. Overall he isn't without a chance but others are preferred ahead of him and its hard to see him realistically winning. Rating - 5/10
Double Seven
The mount of 18 time Champion Jockey AP McCoy who won this race back in 2011 on Don't Push It for his boss JP McManus who he rides for here. Double Seven had notched up six wins on the bounce before finding things happening too quickly for him over two and a half miles last time out. Stamina shouldn't be too much of a problem as he has won over in excess of three miles before, however he does have to deal with a career high handicap mark and he lacks the physical scope of some of these. The McCoy factor is sure to see him go off a much shorter price than he should and he isn't without a chance but he may come up short for win purposes. Rating - 6/10
Battle Group
Now for a runner who has a mind of his own in Battle Group who looked as if his rebellious days we behind him when winning three on the bounce late last season. Them three wins all came for Kevin Bishop and since joining his new yard he has gained three letters next to his name in the racecard. He started off by being pulled up in the Paddy Power Gold Cup before disgracing himself and refusing to race at Newbury and he was also pulled up last time. In all seriousness, even his best form wouldn't be good enough to win this and it is no certainty that he will even start the race after his Newbury exploits, easily opposed. Rating - 2/10
Buckers Bridge
Buckers Bridge is still relatively lightly raced for a National contender as he has only graced the racecourse with his presence eight times. He tackled a true stamina testing trip for the first time in his most recent run where he passed the test in third behind On His Own and Mount Benbulben. More will be needed today but he remains somewhat an unknown quantity which could be both for and against him in a National. On one hand he may be far better than we have previously seen, however he may also lack experience on the big stage. Connections also have the first reserve in the race who would have a better chance so it could be that Buckers Bridge is withdrawn to make room for Goonyella. If allowed to take his chance then Buckers Bridge could surprise a few here but winning may be too much to ask. Rating - 6/10
Lion Na Bearnai
The only twelve year old in the race is Lion Na Bearnai who is already a National winner, albeit an Irish National, but nonetheless a National. Stamina is assured here and is the chosen ride of Gold Cup winning jockey Davy Russell, although Lion Na Bearnai has his first stab at a National late in life. He wont mind what ground it is come race day as he performs on all going but faster ground would be preferred if anything. We last saw him when 33 lengths behind Buckers Bridge but it is safe to say he is better than that showing and he has solid place chances if taking to the fences. Rating - 6/10
Prince De Beauchene
A serious contender in Prince De Beauchene who represents the Champion Irish Trainer Willie Mullins who tasted success in this race with Hedgehunter in 2005. He has promised a lot in past seasons before getting little injuries that have ruled him out of the National, but this year he finally gets here in one piece. The last win to his name was in the Bobbyjo Chase in 2012 over three miles and a furlong so stamina isn't a huge problem and jumping isn't a worry here. He was in the process of running a big race in the Hennessy at Newbury before making a couple of bad mistakes at the wrong time and losing too much ground, that run is forgiven. He has since struggled in a Grade One which is probably above his ability and more recently was a good fourth over two and a half miles which is too short for him. The Handicapper has finally relented and given him a chance back in a handicap from his lofty 150+ ratings and has put him on 147 for today. Paul Townend fills in for the injured Ruby Walsh and Prince De Beauchene is taken to win the Grand National of 2014. Rating 9/10
Monbeg Dude
Michael Scudamore doesn't have a lot of horses but he does have a more than live National hope here with Monbeg Dude. He burst onto the scene in 2012 with a battling win at Cheltenham before going on to beat Teaforthree in the Welsh National under a brilliant Paul Carberry ride. Last season a soft ground Cheltenham enticed connections into a crack at the Gold Cup but that plan never really came to fruition as he was pulled up. However this season it has been all systems go for the National and he had a perfect prep run at Doncaster in the Grimthorpe Chase when a staying on fifth. Stamina is clearly no issue for him however he is prone to the odd jumping error and for that reason he can be opposed here. Rating - 7/10
Big Shu
Big Shu is the second horse in today's race to be considered a Cross Country specialist as he wont the Cheltenham Cross Country race last season, before going on to win the La Touche at Punchestown. In his last three outings, Big Shu has carried 11-9, 12-0 and 12-3 which when put against today's weight of 10-8 are huge asks. Stamina is at a premium here and his jumping should hold up over these fences and if all things go well he shouldn't be far away for Peter Buchanan. Rating - 7/10
Burton Port
Once top class and now with Jonjo O'Neill who won the race with Don't Push It back in 2010, however injuries have limited his career to date. He showed that he still has plenty of his old sparkle when jumping for fun at Newbury last time out before getting tired late on, there were excuses that day however. Brian Harding takes the ride on him today which is no negative but both of Jonjo's jockeys ride other horses in the race. A return to his best form would see him close but he is a big fragile these days and for win purposes we look elsewhere. Rating - 5/10
Our Father
Came into this season with a lofty reputation after a good Novice season and was sent off the 11/2 favourite in the Hennessy, but could do no better than seventh. Since then he has come a distant fifth in a National Trial at Haydock and a once more distant ninth at Cheltenham, but all roads this season have pointed towards here. The blinkers stay on today and Denis O'Regan has gone close in Nationals before on Black Apalachi while David Pipe wont this with Comply Or Die in 2008. Would be no surprise to see him go well for a while but in all seriousness he shouldn't be good enough here and others are preferred. Rating - 4/10
Mountainous
Won this season's Welsh National in tenacious style and clearly has no stamina worries to deal with but the ground is a worry. Mountainous is better on softer ground which he wont be getting today, saying that he has ran well on better ground before but came up short. He runs off a 13 pound higher mark than he did for his Welsh National victory today and looks up against it but will be staying on when others have cried enough. Rating - 4/10
The Rainbow Hunter
Landed a victory in the Skybet Chase at Doncaster which is seen as a trial for this race in good style beating Baile Anrai by a length and a half. There is no owner more excited about the race this year than Racing UK presenter Oli Bell as he owns a share in this challenger, so we wont be too harsh... Will we? He came here as an unfancied 50/1 shot last season and was jumping well before unseating Aidan Coleman at the Canal Turn through no fault of his own. If he can avoid trouble throughout the race then he wont be far away and is a very exciting addition to the field, with Aidan Coleman taking over from Nick Scholfield who prefers Teaforthree. Let's not forget that last season he was second in the race... Albeit without his jockey. Rating - 7/10
Vintage Star
Sue Smith won this race last year with Aurora's Encore and excels with staying chasers but Vintage Star is shunned by Ryan Mania who prefers Mr Moonshine. Brian Hughes takes over in the saddle today and he if he gets round he shouldn't be a million miles away but his jumping let him down last time at Cheltenham. Prior to that he was second in a gruelling Peter Marsh chase after a good sixth in the Welsh National behind Mountainous at Chepstow. Place chances at best but in all seriousness he should be found wanting in this race. Rating - 4/10
Chance Du Roy
Chance Du Roy will be given a chance by many after he won the Becher Chase in December over three miles and two furlongs. He has disappointed since when a dismal show at Haydock saw him pulled up early but he showed a slight return to form when fourth at Ascot last time out. That effort came with cheek pieces on first time and they stay on today but he will need to improve considerably to trouble the protagonists today. Rating - 5/10
Hawkes Point
Paul Nicholls' representative was given a favourable mention on our Cheltenham preview when joined by Nick Scholfield. He was beaten a head in this year's Welsh National but remains a lightly raced horse and may have a bit more improvement in him. The ground accounted for him last time at Haydock although he did manage a distant sixth, but better ground will suit him better today. Providing he can take to these fences he is one of the more lively outsiders with Ryan Mahon on board who has excelled in big races this season. Rating - 7/10
Kruzhlinin
The McCain family are synonymous with this race with the likes of Red Rum, Amberleigh House and Ballabriggs, but Kruzhlinin is unlikely to add to those names. He is better on good ground and Stamina isn't much of a worry, but he should be nowhere near the class of these today and is easily opposed. Rating - 2/10
Pineau De Re
Dr Richard Newland has an interesting one here with Pineau De Re who ran the most eyecatching race at Cheltenham when flying home late for third in the Pertemps. Before that he won a veterans chase in nice style but must run off a ten pound higher mark today which will make like tougher for him. His only visit to the National fences saw him come down at the eighth in the Becher Chase late last year under Brian Hughes. Lleighton Aspell takes the ride today and if he were to get round he will take a lot of beating with stamina a given. Rating - 8/10
Golan Way
A bit of a surprise they elected to turn up here but he did win a decent Hunter Chase last time out and his best form would hand him a small chance. Saying that he hasn't been at his best for years now and the easy lead that he craves wont be so easy here, for that he is easily overlooked. Rating - 1/10
Twirling Magnet
Jonjo O'Neill knows what it takes to win this race but Twirling Magnet looks up against it this afternoon after regressing since his Cheltenham win in October. He travelled well for a long way at the Festival but weakened and unseated his rider two out when beaten, so he will need more here. Richie McLernon takes the ride who was second by a nose hair on Sunnyhillboy back in 2012, but it would be a surprise if he got close this year. Rating - 2/10
Vesper Bell
Looked to be going the right way when an unlucky seventh in last year's Kim Muir at Cheltenham before a good staying performance to come second in Ireland. That was behind Goonyella who just missed out on the race this year and Vesper Bell has since disappointed in a big way, more importantly when falling at the first over these fences earlier this season. If he jumps round and returns to his best form he could be given a chance, but that is a very big if. Rating 4/10
The Package
David Pipe must be blaming The Package for his lack of hair as he has built up this trait of running well at Cheltenham then getting a small injury before the National. But this year he has made it to the race and although his only visit to these fences resulted in him unseating Graham Lee. He was a promising third behind Holywell at Cheltenham however and his stamina is clearly no issue, but he is 11 years old now and this will likely be his last chance at a National. Not discounted but he will need to improve on his recent form for win purposes. Rating - 7/10
Raz De Maree
This race has long been the aim for Raz De Maree for Dessie Hughes but he hasn't won since 2012 when winning the Cork National. He did however run a nice prep race at Down Royal behind Yes Tom, but he was outsider of the field that day and will need to improve significantly. From eight pounds higher in the handicap than his last win he could go close if a first time visor perks him up, but his price reflects his chances. Rating - 5/10
Rose Of The Moon
Dave O'Meara saddles an interesting one here in Rose Of The Moon although his one run over these fences wouldn't fill you with confidence when 10th in the Becher. He won a good race at Wetherby last time out however and has Cheek Pieces fitted for the first time today to get some more improvement. But on all known form he shouldn't be good enough here. Rating - 2/10
Shakalakaboomboom
If there were prizes given out for the best name in the race then Shakalakaboomboom would be an odds on favourite, but he isn't that on ability. He had his problems after coming ninth in the race in 2012 when running well for a long way, but he didn't stay on that occasion and that is again the worry today. Rating - 4/10
Alvarado
These silks are one of the most successful colours in the history of the race despite not winning, it seems every year they are in the placings. But Alvarado is their new horse to go to war with after winning impressively at Cheltenham two runs ago when staying very well. He was disappointing at Cheltenham on New Year's Day but that is easily forgiven as the conditions were near monsoon like. He will need to improve but it wouldn't be beyond him and gets in off a fly weight of 10-2. Rating - 5/10
Last Time D'albain
The last Irish raider in the field now with Last Time D'albain who has been disappointing since a good third over these fences in last year's Topham. The handicapper has been kind and he is only two pounds higher than his last visit here but on recent form its hard to give him too much of a chance. Rating - 3/10
One In A Milan
Evan Williams has a good record here with the likes of State Of Play and Cappa Bleu who was second last year, but its a big ask for him to improve on that here. Stamina is clearly no worry after a fourth in the Welsh National, but he had no weight that day and on bottomless ground it was the key. Promising young jockey Adam Wedge takes the ride but its difficult to see One In A Milan being good enough today. Rating - 3/10
Swing Bill
We come to the final horse for this year's Grand National and we started with a 13 year old so we shall also end with one. Swing Bill got into the race in controversial style through a random ballot but has a good record round these fences on more than one occasion. Last year saw him run a good sixth and from a four pound lower mark is no lost cause albeit this will be his last chance to win a National. Not completely dismissed and his price tag could be too big for a horse proven round the course, but others are preferred. Rating 5/10
1st - Prince De Beauchene
2nd - Teaforthree
3rd - The Rainbow Hunter
4th - The Package
Prince De Beauchene represents a top yard from Ireland and has been unlucky when not making the race in past years but is here this season off a good mark. There are stamina doubts regarding him but as long as his jumping holds up there shouldn't be too many problems regarding stamina. One horse who has jumping assured is Teaforthree who was third in this last year and may improve on that with less assertive tactics. The Rainbow Hunter came down here last season but that was through no fault of his own and is one that could be a bit overpriced after winning the Skybet. The best of the David Pipe lot could well be The Package who like the selection has missed Nationals through injuries before, but his jumping is his asset. Others that could get involved include Balthazar King who has won his last four and loved the fences here last year and Pineau De Re wont be far away if jumping well. Hawkes Point is stamina laden and the fences should provide no problem for him but he may be better next year as he remains inexperienced. AP McCoy rides Double Seven who is a clear stayer and is sure to be popular in the market, whereas Monbeg Dude will be stalking at the back of the field with Tidal Bay.
Good Luck everybody and as always, Happy Punting!
Thursday 3 April 2014
Aintree Festival Day Two
Good Morning/Evening everyone and welcome to day two of Aintree after day one was somewhat an anticlimax with some fancied runners going down. We still managed to stay afloat with Rock On Ruby chasing home The New One and Warne winning emphatically for Sam Waley-Cohen. Lets hope today can be a bit better as the highlight is the Melling Chase in which Module looks to gain some Cheltenham compensation. They race over the National fences for which Double Ross is the favourite for an ever competitive Topham Chase.
As always we have a video planned for you as we mark your card for the day's racing at Aintree. Joining the panel today are myself (@Lukeelder13), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and our very own Aintree encyclopedia Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121). We hope you enjoy the video and agree with some of our selections!
http://youtu.be/q76uH3go784
2:00 Aintree - SGT Reckless
Many people speculated different things about the run of SGT Reckless at Cheltenham in the Supreme Novices when fourth behind Vautour. However one of the things not so widely mentioned was the fact that he didn't handle the course at all like a few others including Irving. My thought process for him is that he is a 'flat track bully' as his four wins have come at Kempton twice, Lingfield (Polytrack) and at Wincanton with the latter being his debut. Half way down the back straight at Cheltenham he found himself a bit tailed off and even more so when coming down the hill towards two out. Turning for home you would have given him no chance as he was giving the leaders around a 20 length headstart but then the turbo kicked in and he flew for fourth. Ahead of him at Cheltenham was Josses Hill who reopposes but if the track plays to the selection's strengths then it shouldn't be too much of an ask. The pace angle seems to be Amore Alato who would have place chances, but SGT Reckless could get his big win for the season. (5/1)
1st - SGT Reckless
2nd - Amore Alato
3rd - Josses Hill
2:30 Aintree - Wonderful Charm
In hindsight, the JLT probably wasn't the right race for Wonderful Charm as he found himself outpaced at the top of the hill and stayed on to finish a head away from fourth. In truth he never looked like a winner that day and his cause wasn't helped by the fall of Djakadam but he was struggling at the time. The step up to three miles looks to be a huge positive and Sam Twiston-Davies takes over from the injured Daryl Jacob which by no means a negative. Out of the rest, O'Faolains Boy looks to be the main danger but it is a big ask to win the RSA then come here just three weeks later and is overlooked today. Don Cossack was still going well when falling at Cheltenham and he bought down Many Clouds, whereas Richie McLernon gets on better with Holywell. Wonderful Charm is taken to relish the step up in trip however and provide Paul Nicholls with another Aintree winner after Silviniaco Conti yesterday. (4/1)
1st - Wonderful Charm
2nd - Don Cossack
3:05 Aintree - Module
There is no way around it, this is an emphatically poor race and is a Grade 1 only in name, especially after last years renewal with Sprinter Sacre, Cue Card and Flemenstar. There must still be a winner however and Module is assigned that task for us after an eye catching run over shorter in the Champion Chase. He was victorious in the Game Spirit at Newbury when rallying and everything would say he is more at home over Two and a half miles. Saying that, he was very disappointing in the Peterborough but the better ground should bring out some improvement in him. The others leave something to be desired but Wishfull Thinking has won round here before and is showing glimmers of what he was in his younger days. Days Hotel is an intriguing runner but has never won beyond two miles and has place claims at best but Module is taken to land his Grade One. (9/2)
1st - Module
2nd - Wishfull Thinking
3rd - Days Hotel
3:40 Aintree - Standing Ovation
David Pipe was out of luck yesterday with his main hopes Dynaste and Western Warhorse but can gain compensation here with Standing Ovation who has improved leaps and bounds this season. It is a very interesting move to drop him in trip as off his higher mark he has been failing to see out the trips in excess of three miles but showing well for a long way. As a result of that he has been slipping down the handicap and is now only nine pounds higher than his last winning mark. Standing Ovation's main asset is undoubtedly his jumping which should see him to good effect round the National fences and is taken to win for Conor O'Farrell. Of the others in the field that have chances, I have been waiting for Mart Lane to run on faster ground for some time now and he finally gets that today. Tahiti Pearl is also a very bold jumper and that should be put to good use this afternoon after he has refound his form lately. David Pipe can land this one with Standing Ovation though. (12/1)
1st - Standing Ovation
2nd - Mart Lane
3rd - Tahiti Pearl
4th - Rebel Rebellion
4:15 Aintree - Beat That
Nicky Henderson decided to avoid Cheltenham with Beat That but had he taken his chance in the Neptune he wouldn't have been out of the mix. His only victory came in November last year when handing out a ten length pounding to Champagne West who has since gone on to better things. I was present that day and he didn't look anywhere near the finished article so I was shocked when he won so easily but he had clearly come on at Sandown last time out. At Sandown he had grown into himself and arguably should have won before getting the last completely wrong and losing all momentum. It's notable that they have waited with him just to give him a bit more time to progress and should take some beating today. Seeyouatmidnight is clearly the one to beat after his victory in the Rendlesham last time out but but there are concerns about the ground for him. Barry Geraghty chooses Beat That over Tistory which is notable and Killala Quay ran with great credit in the Neptune at Cheltenham. (9/1)
1st - Beat That
2nd - Killala Quay
3rd - Racing Pulse
4:50 Aintree - Alaivan
Alaivan is the second runner from the Cheltenham Forgiveness List to run today after showing well for a long way in the County before being outpaced. He still managed ninth that day and didn't lose any further ground when coming under pressure but the cheek pieces remain on. Another thing that remains on is his jockey Maurice Linehan who has partnered him in their last three outings together over shorter trips. He remains off a mark of 132 which is more than workable, especially when taking into account his riders five pound claim and the ground is no issue at all. Like Minded has had a good season so far including a good third in the Lanzarote at Cheltenham and may still be a few pounds ahead of the handicapper. One that was unlucky for various reasons at Cheltenham was Attaglance who reverts back to hurdles today and has done the festival double before. Clondaw Kaempfer has been touted for a few handicaps this season and has a notable jockey booking, but it is Alaivan who is taken to step up in trip successfully. (16/1)
1st - Alaivan
2nd - Like Minded
3rd - Attaglance
4th - Little Jon
5:25 Aintree - Lady Buttons
We end today with the Mares Bumper won last year by the promising Legacy Gold who has since won to win three Hurdle races this season for David Pipe. Lady Buttons gets the nod here though after a decisive success last time out at Wetherby when beating Millicent Silver with ease. That was on more testing ground but she won on good to soft on debut so the conditions are no problem after her only defeat came in monsoon conditions at Cheltenham. Lady Buttons is the pick of the four year olds and the talented Adam Nicol takes a further five pounds off so she gets ten pounds from her older rivals. The Govaness was impressive when beating Lily Waugh and Legacy Gold at Chletenham earlier in the season and comes here fresh whereas Tara Mist might want more cut in the ground. (11/1)
1st - Lady Buttons
2nd - Hannah's Princess
3rd - The Govaness
NAP - Beat That
Nb - Wonderful Charm
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
As always we have a video planned for you as we mark your card for the day's racing at Aintree. Joining the panel today are myself (@Lukeelder13), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and our very own Aintree encyclopedia Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121). We hope you enjoy the video and agree with some of our selections!
http://youtu.be/q76uH3go784
2:00 Aintree - SGT Reckless
Many people speculated different things about the run of SGT Reckless at Cheltenham in the Supreme Novices when fourth behind Vautour. However one of the things not so widely mentioned was the fact that he didn't handle the course at all like a few others including Irving. My thought process for him is that he is a 'flat track bully' as his four wins have come at Kempton twice, Lingfield (Polytrack) and at Wincanton with the latter being his debut. Half way down the back straight at Cheltenham he found himself a bit tailed off and even more so when coming down the hill towards two out. Turning for home you would have given him no chance as he was giving the leaders around a 20 length headstart but then the turbo kicked in and he flew for fourth. Ahead of him at Cheltenham was Josses Hill who reopposes but if the track plays to the selection's strengths then it shouldn't be too much of an ask. The pace angle seems to be Amore Alato who would have place chances, but SGT Reckless could get his big win for the season. (5/1)
1st - SGT Reckless
2nd - Amore Alato
3rd - Josses Hill
2:30 Aintree - Wonderful Charm
In hindsight, the JLT probably wasn't the right race for Wonderful Charm as he found himself outpaced at the top of the hill and stayed on to finish a head away from fourth. In truth he never looked like a winner that day and his cause wasn't helped by the fall of Djakadam but he was struggling at the time. The step up to three miles looks to be a huge positive and Sam Twiston-Davies takes over from the injured Daryl Jacob which by no means a negative. Out of the rest, O'Faolains Boy looks to be the main danger but it is a big ask to win the RSA then come here just three weeks later and is overlooked today. Don Cossack was still going well when falling at Cheltenham and he bought down Many Clouds, whereas Richie McLernon gets on better with Holywell. Wonderful Charm is taken to relish the step up in trip however and provide Paul Nicholls with another Aintree winner after Silviniaco Conti yesterday. (4/1)
1st - Wonderful Charm
2nd - Don Cossack
3:05 Aintree - Module
There is no way around it, this is an emphatically poor race and is a Grade 1 only in name, especially after last years renewal with Sprinter Sacre, Cue Card and Flemenstar. There must still be a winner however and Module is assigned that task for us after an eye catching run over shorter in the Champion Chase. He was victorious in the Game Spirit at Newbury when rallying and everything would say he is more at home over Two and a half miles. Saying that, he was very disappointing in the Peterborough but the better ground should bring out some improvement in him. The others leave something to be desired but Wishfull Thinking has won round here before and is showing glimmers of what he was in his younger days. Days Hotel is an intriguing runner but has never won beyond two miles and has place claims at best but Module is taken to land his Grade One. (9/2)
1st - Module
2nd - Wishfull Thinking
3rd - Days Hotel
3:40 Aintree - Standing Ovation
David Pipe was out of luck yesterday with his main hopes Dynaste and Western Warhorse but can gain compensation here with Standing Ovation who has improved leaps and bounds this season. It is a very interesting move to drop him in trip as off his higher mark he has been failing to see out the trips in excess of three miles but showing well for a long way. As a result of that he has been slipping down the handicap and is now only nine pounds higher than his last winning mark. Standing Ovation's main asset is undoubtedly his jumping which should see him to good effect round the National fences and is taken to win for Conor O'Farrell. Of the others in the field that have chances, I have been waiting for Mart Lane to run on faster ground for some time now and he finally gets that today. Tahiti Pearl is also a very bold jumper and that should be put to good use this afternoon after he has refound his form lately. David Pipe can land this one with Standing Ovation though. (12/1)
1st - Standing Ovation
2nd - Mart Lane
3rd - Tahiti Pearl
4th - Rebel Rebellion
4:15 Aintree - Beat That
Nicky Henderson decided to avoid Cheltenham with Beat That but had he taken his chance in the Neptune he wouldn't have been out of the mix. His only victory came in November last year when handing out a ten length pounding to Champagne West who has since gone on to better things. I was present that day and he didn't look anywhere near the finished article so I was shocked when he won so easily but he had clearly come on at Sandown last time out. At Sandown he had grown into himself and arguably should have won before getting the last completely wrong and losing all momentum. It's notable that they have waited with him just to give him a bit more time to progress and should take some beating today. Seeyouatmidnight is clearly the one to beat after his victory in the Rendlesham last time out but but there are concerns about the ground for him. Barry Geraghty chooses Beat That over Tistory which is notable and Killala Quay ran with great credit in the Neptune at Cheltenham. (9/1)
1st - Beat That
2nd - Killala Quay
3rd - Racing Pulse
4:50 Aintree - Alaivan
Alaivan is the second runner from the Cheltenham Forgiveness List to run today after showing well for a long way in the County before being outpaced. He still managed ninth that day and didn't lose any further ground when coming under pressure but the cheek pieces remain on. Another thing that remains on is his jockey Maurice Linehan who has partnered him in their last three outings together over shorter trips. He remains off a mark of 132 which is more than workable, especially when taking into account his riders five pound claim and the ground is no issue at all. Like Minded has had a good season so far including a good third in the Lanzarote at Cheltenham and may still be a few pounds ahead of the handicapper. One that was unlucky for various reasons at Cheltenham was Attaglance who reverts back to hurdles today and has done the festival double before. Clondaw Kaempfer has been touted for a few handicaps this season and has a notable jockey booking, but it is Alaivan who is taken to step up in trip successfully. (16/1)
1st - Alaivan
2nd - Like Minded
3rd - Attaglance
4th - Little Jon
5:25 Aintree - Lady Buttons
We end today with the Mares Bumper won last year by the promising Legacy Gold who has since won to win three Hurdle races this season for David Pipe. Lady Buttons gets the nod here though after a decisive success last time out at Wetherby when beating Millicent Silver with ease. That was on more testing ground but she won on good to soft on debut so the conditions are no problem after her only defeat came in monsoon conditions at Cheltenham. Lady Buttons is the pick of the four year olds and the talented Adam Nicol takes a further five pounds off so she gets ten pounds from her older rivals. The Govaness was impressive when beating Lily Waugh and Legacy Gold at Chletenham earlier in the season and comes here fresh whereas Tara Mist might want more cut in the ground. (11/1)
1st - Lady Buttons
2nd - Hannah's Princess
3rd - The Govaness
NAP - Beat That
Nb - Wonderful Charm
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
Wednesday 2 April 2014
Aintree Festival Day One
Good Morning/Evening to you all and welcome to the Aintree Grand National Meeting as the National Hunt season continues to wind down. Today's big races are the Grade 1 Betfred Bowl which will see First Lieutenant try to land his 2nd victory in the race in as many years and the Aintree Hurdle.
We have as always prepared a video for you guys covering all of today's racing at Aintree as well as a few giggles. Joining the panel today is myself (@Lukeelder13), Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We hope you enjoy the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCVAZd_h0UY
Now onto today's selections!
2:00 Aintree - Activial
Harry Fry decided to swerve Cheltenham with Activial and has been aimed at Aintree as a result, after seeing the backside of Calipto earlier this season. Nothing went right for the latter at Cheltenham after Daryl Jacob's stirrup broke off approaching two out when still travelling very strongly, but he will have to reproduce that run again. The selection has to find three and a quarter lengths with Calipto from the Newbury race in November but the better ground should see that margin significantly shortened. One of the main positives about Activial is that he comes here fresh as many in the field will have left their race behind at Cheltenham. We last saw Activial when victorious in the Adonis Hurdle at Kempton, handing out a three and a half length beating to the re-opposing Commissioned, who also gave Cheltenham a miss and wont be far away. (4/1)
1st - Activial
2nd - Calipto
3rd - Commissioned
2:30 Aintree - First Lieutenant
Only two of the six in this years Betfred Bowl didn't run at Cheltenham, the most notable one of the pair being First Lieutenant with Argocat also sidestepping the Festival. Dynaste looks set to go off favourite here after winning the Ryanair impressively and was also victorious at Aintree last season, albeit in a much weaker contest. Another one that comes here after running at Cheltenham is Silviniaco Conti who didn't stay at Cheltenham and to me it is a surprise they bought him here, but one of interest is last year's winner. First Lieutenant was a bit disappointing in the early part of the season but came back to life with a good second behind Bobs Worth in the Lexus. He was a withdrawal on the morning of the Gold Cup because he 'did not eat up' but has been in good form back at home according to trainer Mouse Morris. The ground is on his side and he clearly likes Aintree so a chance is taken for First Lieutenant to put his freshness to good use with Menorah to chase him home. (3/1)
1st - First Lieutenant
2nd - Menorah
3:05 Aintree - Rock On Ruby
You would be a good mixture of brave and stupid to say that anything not named 'The New One' is fighting for minor honours here. In the search to find the runner up I have adventurously come up with ex Champion Hurdle winner, Rock On Ruby who reverts back to hurdles today. He is the first entry into today's blog who ran at Cheltenham, but gave nowhere near his true running after making a shuddering early mistake in the Arkle. Ten lengths separate him and The New One from their battle early on this season, however that was the first run of the season and Rock On Ruby clearly needed it, although he shouldn't be overturning the form today. The New One to take all the beating, but Rock On Ruby can chase him home. (11/1)
1st - The New One
2nd - Rock On Ruby
3:40 Aintree - Warne
Warne won last time despite carrying the 2 stone penalty of the 'Adam Webb Nap' and was impressive in doing so when making all at Fairyhouse. The horses behind him that day were no slouches either as he gave a length and a quarter beating to Seabass with Cheltenham Foxhunters winner, Tammys Hill back in third. He won that exact race before a good fourth here last year showing that he handles the fences but there is room for improvement in that area. There were a few sticky jumps early on in the race but he warmed to the task as the race progressed and the addition of Sam Waley-Cohen is a positive today. (9/2)
1st - Warne
2nd - Mossey Joe
3rd - Richard's Sundance
4:15 Aintree - Arnaud
Arnaud came to the fore as a top Novice Chaser when caught late on by Valdez at Doncaster who went on to finish a good fifth in the Arkle. His life is made a bit easier here with Ger Fox taking off a valuable 7 pounds and also with the defection of Next Sensation who would have been the pace angle. There aren't many others that would want to be leading this afternoon so it could just be that Arnaud gets to jump them silly from the front in a soft lead. Claret Cloak appreciated a change of tactics last time in the Grand Annual but made a shuddering error at the 2nd last and will be one stalking late on. However Arnaud comes here a fresh horse and will love the spring ground and can make it a double for Michael O'Leary. (8/1)
1st - Arnaud
2nd - Claret Cloak
3rd - Parsnip Pete
4th - Sound Investment
4:50 Aintree - Fox Appeal
This is a bit of a disappointing turn out for me despite the field including an Arkle winner and a fourth as well as a JLT runner up. All five of these had high hopes at the start of the year but have each left a blotch on their resume throughout the course of the season. Oscar Whisky fell at the first in the JLT when the stable who won this last year had high hopes, whereas Dodging Bullets came up short in the Arkle but the step up in trip could suit. Western Warhorse has let his temperament get the better of him on a couple of occasions but is unbeaten over fences and is another who steps up in trip today. That leaves Uxizandre who was laboured at Warwick in handicap but ran well in the JLT although the strength of that form could be questioned. So we are left with Fox Appeal who is a more than useful novice but isn't straightforward himself so is taken tentatively. He is the only one that comes here fresh after bypassing Cheltenham but on a formline with Wonderful Charm is well amongst these five. Undoubtedly his best performance came when handing out a 10 length victory to the ill fated Raya Star and last time out pushed Balder Succes to a length. Fox Appeal to take all the beating today at a nice price as well. (10/1)
1st - Fox Appeal
2nd - Western Warhorse
5:25 Aintree - Busty Brown
Not for the first time in his career Noel Meade has an unexposed horse in Busty Brown who made a good return from injury last time out behind Sailors Warn. That was over a much shorter trip than today and he covered himself with credit in a good field including Thousand Stars. Before his injury he was mixing it with the likes of Pont Alexandre and Don Cossack in Novice Hurdle company and was far from being outclassed. He has only had one previous try over three miles however, which is the race I'd like to focus on as he was third in a Grade Three. Our Vinnie was the winner that day who was a top novice in his own right with Rule The World in second before Busty Brown completed the placings in third. Finishing third in a good Grade Three race like that is no bad thing but distances back to him were a head and a head which shows the class he has. With stamina assured and a mark of 140 looking very lenient, Busty Brown is taken to land the last race on the card today. (9/1)
1st - Busty Brown
2nd - Kaylif Aramis
3rd - Two Rockers
4th - Edgardo Sol
NAP - First Lieutenant
Nb - Arnaud
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting!
We have as always prepared a video for you guys covering all of today's racing at Aintree as well as a few giggles. Joining the panel today is myself (@Lukeelder13), Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We hope you enjoy the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCVAZd_h0UY
Now onto today's selections!
2:00 Aintree - Activial
Harry Fry decided to swerve Cheltenham with Activial and has been aimed at Aintree as a result, after seeing the backside of Calipto earlier this season. Nothing went right for the latter at Cheltenham after Daryl Jacob's stirrup broke off approaching two out when still travelling very strongly, but he will have to reproduce that run again. The selection has to find three and a quarter lengths with Calipto from the Newbury race in November but the better ground should see that margin significantly shortened. One of the main positives about Activial is that he comes here fresh as many in the field will have left their race behind at Cheltenham. We last saw Activial when victorious in the Adonis Hurdle at Kempton, handing out a three and a half length beating to the re-opposing Commissioned, who also gave Cheltenham a miss and wont be far away. (4/1)
1st - Activial
2nd - Calipto
3rd - Commissioned
2:30 Aintree - First Lieutenant
Only two of the six in this years Betfred Bowl didn't run at Cheltenham, the most notable one of the pair being First Lieutenant with Argocat also sidestepping the Festival. Dynaste looks set to go off favourite here after winning the Ryanair impressively and was also victorious at Aintree last season, albeit in a much weaker contest. Another one that comes here after running at Cheltenham is Silviniaco Conti who didn't stay at Cheltenham and to me it is a surprise they bought him here, but one of interest is last year's winner. First Lieutenant was a bit disappointing in the early part of the season but came back to life with a good second behind Bobs Worth in the Lexus. He was a withdrawal on the morning of the Gold Cup because he 'did not eat up' but has been in good form back at home according to trainer Mouse Morris. The ground is on his side and he clearly likes Aintree so a chance is taken for First Lieutenant to put his freshness to good use with Menorah to chase him home. (3/1)
1st - First Lieutenant
2nd - Menorah
3:05 Aintree - Rock On Ruby
You would be a good mixture of brave and stupid to say that anything not named 'The New One' is fighting for minor honours here. In the search to find the runner up I have adventurously come up with ex Champion Hurdle winner, Rock On Ruby who reverts back to hurdles today. He is the first entry into today's blog who ran at Cheltenham, but gave nowhere near his true running after making a shuddering early mistake in the Arkle. Ten lengths separate him and The New One from their battle early on this season, however that was the first run of the season and Rock On Ruby clearly needed it, although he shouldn't be overturning the form today. The New One to take all the beating, but Rock On Ruby can chase him home. (11/1)
1st - The New One
2nd - Rock On Ruby
3:40 Aintree - Warne
Warne won last time despite carrying the 2 stone penalty of the 'Adam Webb Nap' and was impressive in doing so when making all at Fairyhouse. The horses behind him that day were no slouches either as he gave a length and a quarter beating to Seabass with Cheltenham Foxhunters winner, Tammys Hill back in third. He won that exact race before a good fourth here last year showing that he handles the fences but there is room for improvement in that area. There were a few sticky jumps early on in the race but he warmed to the task as the race progressed and the addition of Sam Waley-Cohen is a positive today. (9/2)
1st - Warne
2nd - Mossey Joe
3rd - Richard's Sundance
4:15 Aintree - Arnaud
Arnaud came to the fore as a top Novice Chaser when caught late on by Valdez at Doncaster who went on to finish a good fifth in the Arkle. His life is made a bit easier here with Ger Fox taking off a valuable 7 pounds and also with the defection of Next Sensation who would have been the pace angle. There aren't many others that would want to be leading this afternoon so it could just be that Arnaud gets to jump them silly from the front in a soft lead. Claret Cloak appreciated a change of tactics last time in the Grand Annual but made a shuddering error at the 2nd last and will be one stalking late on. However Arnaud comes here a fresh horse and will love the spring ground and can make it a double for Michael O'Leary. (8/1)
1st - Arnaud
2nd - Claret Cloak
3rd - Parsnip Pete
4th - Sound Investment
4:50 Aintree - Fox Appeal
This is a bit of a disappointing turn out for me despite the field including an Arkle winner and a fourth as well as a JLT runner up. All five of these had high hopes at the start of the year but have each left a blotch on their resume throughout the course of the season. Oscar Whisky fell at the first in the JLT when the stable who won this last year had high hopes, whereas Dodging Bullets came up short in the Arkle but the step up in trip could suit. Western Warhorse has let his temperament get the better of him on a couple of occasions but is unbeaten over fences and is another who steps up in trip today. That leaves Uxizandre who was laboured at Warwick in handicap but ran well in the JLT although the strength of that form could be questioned. So we are left with Fox Appeal who is a more than useful novice but isn't straightforward himself so is taken tentatively. He is the only one that comes here fresh after bypassing Cheltenham but on a formline with Wonderful Charm is well amongst these five. Undoubtedly his best performance came when handing out a 10 length victory to the ill fated Raya Star and last time out pushed Balder Succes to a length. Fox Appeal to take all the beating today at a nice price as well. (10/1)
1st - Fox Appeal
2nd - Western Warhorse
5:25 Aintree - Busty Brown
Not for the first time in his career Noel Meade has an unexposed horse in Busty Brown who made a good return from injury last time out behind Sailors Warn. That was over a much shorter trip than today and he covered himself with credit in a good field including Thousand Stars. Before his injury he was mixing it with the likes of Pont Alexandre and Don Cossack in Novice Hurdle company and was far from being outclassed. He has only had one previous try over three miles however, which is the race I'd like to focus on as he was third in a Grade Three. Our Vinnie was the winner that day who was a top novice in his own right with Rule The World in second before Busty Brown completed the placings in third. Finishing third in a good Grade Three race like that is no bad thing but distances back to him were a head and a head which shows the class he has. With stamina assured and a mark of 140 looking very lenient, Busty Brown is taken to land the last race on the card today. (9/1)
1st - Busty Brown
2nd - Kaylif Aramis
3rd - Two Rockers
4th - Edgardo Sol
NAP - First Lieutenant
Nb - Arnaud
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting!
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