April 05 / 16.00 Aintree

16.00

Good To Soft

Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £500000
  • 4m 2f 74y
  • Class 1
  • 38 runners
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Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 38 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

25/1 (Won)

  • Win: £35.70
  • Place: £7.20

Form: 73-411

Last run: 42 days

W: 11st 8lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 163

Form & Verdict
Capped his first season over fences with third to Minella Cocooner in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) last April and took his form to another level with two Grade 3 wins on testing ground in Ireland this year; the latest was in a good scrap with Intense Raffles, who's now a whopping 15lb better off; that helps to show that even more improvement is needed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

17th Mar 2026

Yielding

3m 2f 50y

15:38 Down Royal

Nick Rockett

11st 7lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Ended his novice season with third in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown; took his form to another level last season; backed up his Thyestes win by taking the Grade 2 Bobbyjo at Fairyhouse en route to leading home a one-two-three for the stable in the Grand National; makes a delayed reappearance after missing the John Durkan in December.

5/4

1st

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Nick Rockett

11st 8lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Capped his first season over fences with third to Minella Cocooner in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) last April and took his form to another level with two Grade 3 wins on testing ground in Ireland this year; the latest was in a good scrap with Intense Raffles, who's now a whopping 15lb better off; that helps to show that even more improvement is needed.

25/1

1st

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Nick Rockett

11st 8lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Capped his first season over fences with third to Minella Cocooner in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) last April and took his form to another level with two Grade 3 wins on testing ground in Ireland this year; the latest was in a good scrap with Intense Raffles, who's now a whopping 15lb better off; that helps to show that even more improvement is needed.

25/1

OUR TIP

6/1

  • Place: £3.20

Form: 311-P8 CD

Last run: 63 days

W: 11st 12lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 167

Form & Verdict
Far from a natural jumper but that matters a lot less in this race these days and the turbo has kicked in when he's moved into marathon territory; that resulted first in a last-gasp win in the 2023 Irish National and then a storming success in this race last year, both on soft; hugging the inner seemed to help somewhat with his jumping 12 months ago; 8lb higher this time and forced to miss his final prep race (with an infection) but he was mightily impressive in the closing stages last year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

I Am Maximus

11st 12lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

His only three long-distance events resulted in an Irish National win in 2023, a storming success in this race in 2024 (soft) and a valiant second, from further off the pace, in repeat bid here in 2025 (good to soft); what a record that is, and 50-1 second in a 3m Grade 1 at Leopardstown on penultimate start gives every encouragement that all his ability remains; the return of cheekpieces (tried once in 2022) is interesting but, off 1lb higher than last year, he should be set for another prominent finish.

7/1

5th

8

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 100y

15:30 Leopardstown

I Am Maximus

11st 10lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: W P Mullins

Won the 2023 Irish National and a brilliant winner of the 2024 Grand National; gave a terrific display to split his stablemates Nick Rockett and Grangeclare West at Aintree last season; tailed off in the John Durkan on reappearance; spirited display when keeping on for second in the Savills after being hampered at the last; adds substance to the stable's challenge.

10/1

25/1

  • Place: £9.00

Form: 1-P625

Last run: 35 days

W: 11st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 163

Form & Verdict
Very weak in the betting when running moderately over 2m4f on heavy going five weeks ago, a sixth chase run he needed to qualify for this; second in the Irish Gold Cup (3m, yielding) one month earlier was a career best but the handicapper has been able to take that into account today, so this major step up in trip demands another new high.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 213y

18:05 Punchestown

Grangeclare West

11st 10lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Excellent third in last season's Grand National; set tough tasks in Grade 1s this season before dropped in class to beat Gerri Colombe in the Bobbyjo at Fairyhouse; unseated at the first when 9-1 for the Grand National; stable's third string now.

14/1

4

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Grangeclare West

11st 10lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Excellent 3l third in last year's renewal, somehow renewing his effort after diving at the final fence cost him plenty of momentum; creditable fifth at Sandown just three weeks later and surging clear from Gerri Colombe at Fairyhouse this February, after another last-fence dive, showed that he's at least as good as ever; 3lb higher than 12 months ago but lots to like.

9/1

1st

7

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Grangeclare West

11st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Excellent third in the Grand National last season, rallying well after a mistake at the last; poor seasonal return in the John Durkan but his 6.25l fourth behind Affordale Fury in the Savills was much better; tailed off in the Irish Gold Cup last time; it's interesting that Townend chooses him and he's well suited by the weightings; however, his best form is on better ground.

3/1

Form: 2-2F42

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 11lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Noble Yeats three years ago showed a 7yo can still win the National; this one has spent most of his career at about 2m4f/2m5f and his three appearances over 2m7f-3m1f were defeats but they were among his best efforts (two were Grade 1 novice places here) and contained mouthwatering suggestions of stamina not yet called upon; it is today and there's almost no doubt he remains capable of better.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

13

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Iroko

11st 1lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Staying-on fourth in last season's Grand National (good to soft) off 5lb lower as just a 7yo; a second crack at it has been his main target this term but he looked better than ever when winning from Firefox in a hot, three-runner race at Ascot (2m5f; second run after wind surgery) in December and had an excuse (scoped dirty) at the Cheltenham Festival last month; has to be in serious calculations.

14/1

10th

1

10th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 1

15:20 Cheltenham

Iroko

12st 0lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Fourth in last season's Grand National (4m2f, good to soft) off 5lb lower; the big one at Aintree is again his main target but this 8yo looked better than ever when winning a hot, three-runner graduation chase at Ascot (2m5f, good to soft) in December and on that evidence he's entitled to considerable respect off his revised mark; won the Martin Pipe Hurdle at the 2023 Festival.

6/1

4th

18

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Iroko

10st 11lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Noble Yeats three years ago showed a 7yo can still win the National; this one has spent most of his career at about 2m4f/2m5f and his three appearances over 2m7f-3m1f were defeats but they were among his best efforts (two were Grade 1 novice places here) and contained mouthwatering suggestions of stamina not yet called upon; it is today and there's almost no doubt he remains capable of better.

8/1

Form: 37-008

Last run: 34 days

W: 10st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 148

Form & Verdict
Big improver sent chasing by his new yard last season and he then disputed the lead over the final fence in this race, only to end up 16l behind in seventh; needs to see it out a lot better and, after he faded well out of contention on all three starts this term, he nevertheless returns to Aintree with a 1lb higher mark than last year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

26

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Meetingofthewaters

10st 7lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Big improver sent chasing by his new yard last season and he then disputed the lead over the final fence in this race, only to end up 16l behind in seventh; needs to see it out a lot better and, after he faded well out of contention on all three starts this term, he nevertheless returns to Aintree with a 1lb higher mark than last year.

20/1

5th

26

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Meetingofthewaters

10st 7lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Big improver sent chasing by his new yard last season and he then disputed the lead over the final fence in this race, only to end up 16l behind in seventh; needs to see it out a lot better and, after he faded well out of contention on all three starts this term, he nevertheless returns to Aintree with a 1lb higher mark than last year.

20/1

8th

2

2nd Mar 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 107y

16:02 Leopardstown

Meetingofthewaters

11st 9lb

J: Peter Smithers

T: W P Mullins

Big improver over fences on joining this yard last season, notably running away with 3m Paddy Power here and good third in Ultima at Cheltenham; two runs here this term well below best, in Paddy Power and never landing a blow off considerably lower hurdles mark at DRF; another with a bit to prove right now.

14/1

Form: 1P-169

Last run: 41 days

W: 10st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Lightly raced 8yo; 10-1 when pulled up in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) last April, in touch five out on his only go at a marathon trip; reappearance win at Cheltenham (3m1f, good) in October was a great deal more auspicious, staying on strongly; creditable sixth off this 9lb higher mark in Coral Gold Cup next time and had a hurdle race in February; needs a second look.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

20

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Senior Chief

10st 10lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Lightly raced 8yo; 10-1 when pulled up in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) last April, in touch five out on his only go at a marathon trip; reappearance win at Cheltenham (3m1f, good) in October was a great deal more auspicious, staying on strongly; creditable sixth off this 9lb higher mark in Coral Gold Cup next time and had a hurdle race in February; needs a second look.

33/1

6th

20

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Senior Chief

10st 10lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Lightly raced 8yo; 10-1 when pulled up in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) last April, in touch five out on his only go at a marathon trip; reappearance win at Cheltenham (3m1f, good) in October was a great deal more auspicious, staying on strongly; creditable sixth off this 9lb higher mark in Coral Gold Cup next time and had a hurdle race in February; needs a second look.

33/1

9th

1

23rd Feb 2025

Heavy

2m 7f 20y

15:50 Naas

Senior Chief

11st 12lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Two-time winner over timber; won a handicap chase on his return to action off 142 at Cheltenham in October and wasn't disgraced off 9lb higher in the Coral Gold Gup at Newbury subsequently; could be well treated off 135 in his first handicap hurdle and handles heavy; chance.

17/2

Form: 1-5894

Last run: 42 days

W: 11st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 157

Form & Verdict
Third to Intense Raffles in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) and delivered late to win the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good; 6lb higher today) later last April; Grade 1 rivals proved far too hot for him this season and he failed to trouble Nick Rockett and Intense Raffles at Fairyhouse on latest outing, but he looks a far more interesting prospect for today's assignment and this could be when he wins again.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Minella Cocooner

11st 1lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Delivered late to win this race on good ground last year by a neck, 26 days after his third in a heavy-ground Irish National; he shaped as if back to his best in the Grand National three weeks ago, travelling well to dispute the lead two out but ending up seventh as the 4m2f took its toll; this trip is presumably the ideal fit and, although 4lb higher than last year, a big run should be forthcoming if Aintree has not taken it out of him.

7/1

9th

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Minella Cocooner

11st 1lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Delivered late to win this race on good ground last year by a neck, 26 days after his third in a heavy-ground Irish National; he shaped as if back to his best in the Grand National three weeks ago, travelling well to dispute the lead two out but ending up seventh as the 4m2f took its toll; this trip is presumably the ideal fit and, although 4lb higher than last year, a big run should be forthcoming if Aintree has not taken it out of him.

7/1

7th

8

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Minella Cocooner

11st 2lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: W P Mullins

Third to Intense Raffles in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) and delivered late to win the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good; 6lb higher today) later last April; Grade 1 rivals proved far too hot for him this season and he failed to trouble Nick Rockett and Intense Raffles at Fairyhouse on latest outing, but he looks a far more interesting prospect for today's assignment and this could be when he wins again.

12/1

Form: 232571

Last run: 21 days

W: 11st 7lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 162

Form & Verdict
Big-race winner in Ireland, the USA and twice in Britain; stormed clear in the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) in April 2022 and came from the clouds to snatch a dramatic King George at Kempton (3m, good) in December 2023; gave a strong reminder of that quality in November this term and won well over hurdles three weeks ago; with a competitive mark and dry weather, a lot is swinging in his favour.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

1

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Hewick

12st 0lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: John Joseph Hanlon

Has been a fantastic standard-bearer for his yard, winning 12 races between hurdles and fences including the King George in 2023; hasn't been at that level in the last year but ran respectably in the Stayers' Hurdle; has to bounce back from a poor Aintree run.

20/1

3

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 149y

Class 1

15:05 Aintree

Hewick

11st 10lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: John Joseph Hanlon

Career highlight when winning the King George over fences at Kempton in December 2023; won two conditions hurdles last year; gave it a very good go from the front when seventh in the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham (3m, good) last month following wind surgery but this 11yo is probably vulnerable once more.

22/1

7th

5

12th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 213y

Class 1

15:20 Cheltenham

Hewick

11st 10lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: John Joseph Hanlon

Career highlight when winning the 2023 King George and he was running well when falling two out in the Gold Cup here that year; won two conditions hurdles last year; soundly beaten behind Impose Toi in Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury (3m, soft) in November last time and, although he's had a wind op and better ground may aid his cause, this 11yo looks up against it.

33/1

Form: 443-26

Last run: 55 days

W: 11st 3lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 158

Form & Verdict
2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, second in it in 2022 and third in last year's Grand National; what a staying star he's been and the first of his two runs this season was creditable (latest was over hurdles) but, off just 1lb lower than 12 months ago, this veteran could again be on the premises without winning.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

6

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Minella Indo

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, second in it in 2022 and third in last year's Grand National; what a staying star he's been and the first of his two runs this season was creditable (latest was over hurdles) but, off just 1lb lower than 12 months ago, this veteran could again be on the premises without winning.

22/1

9th

6

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Minella Indo

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, second in it in 2022 and third in last year's Grand National; what a staying star he's been and the first of his two runs this season was creditable (latest was over hurdles) but, off just 1lb lower than 12 months ago, this veteran could again be on the premises without winning.

22/1

6th

5

9th Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 5f 180y

14:40 Navan

Minella Indo

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

in touch with leaders, outpaced and dropped to rear after 2 out

4/1

66/1

Form: 5-2P77

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 5lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Always-prominent runner-up at the Cheltenham Festival (3m1f, heavy; 3lb higher today) last March under his usual rider Beau Morgan; seems to have been campaigned with the National in mind this term (three hurdle races, then brief headway in a chase) and while obvious positives in recent races are hard to find, at his best he looks sure to stay beyond 3m2f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

23rd May 2026

Good

3m 0f 30y

Class 2

16:10 Bangor-on-Dee

Twig

12st 0lb

J: Beau Morgan

T: Ben Pauling

Second at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival and he started last season with two wins, including a gritty success in the Becher at Aintree (3m2f); struggled in the Grand National last month but he's now only 2lb higher than for his last win and looks interesting on this drop back in trip and class; last success was on soft but most of his wins have been on good ground.

5/2

15th

34

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Twig

10st 4lb

J: Beau Morgan

T: Ben Pauling

Second at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival and started this season with two wins, notably by a short head from Mr Vango in the 3m2f Becher over these fences (wore cheekpieces second time); warmed up for this over hurdles after three months off; the Becher performance was doughty stuff but his only go at a marathon trip was last year's National in which he finished a remote tenth, always behind.

40/1

7th

4

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

14:25 Uttoxeter

Twig

11st 7lb

J: Beau Morgan

T: Ben Pauling

Useful chaser who is 2-2 this season, latest success in notable race at Aintree; however, lower mark over hurdles reflects his level in this sphere and main target is again the Grand National next month.

20/1

Form: -33713

Last run: 55 days

W: 10st 5lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Can throw in a blunder and, although chase career began in 2023, he's had only six races in this sphere, winning a beginners chase at Navan (3m, soft) this January; however, he's played second or third fiddle to some very talented rivals and left the impression that he has strength in stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

11th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 100y

18:37 Killarney

Three Card Brag

11st 0lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Shares the highest official mark with Gentleman De Mee but he's a strong stayer who hasn't raced over this short a trip since 2023; finished ninth in the Grand National last time.

13/2

9th

15

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Three Card Brag

11st 0lb

J: Jordan Gainford

T: Gordon Elliott

Career-best form in the autumn this season, including a win at Cheltenham (3m1f) and second to Panic Attack in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f); flopped when favourite in the Grade 3 won by Grangeclare West at Fairyhouse in February, admittedly after 12 weeks off but there's the additional worry of last year's Grand National in which he was 16-1 and raced very prominently but faded steadily from three out.

50/1

7th

10

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Three Card Brag

11st 0lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Has performed well in big field 3m+ chases this season; finished second to Spanish Harlem in the Kerry National at Listowel (3m, yielding) then went one better at Cheltenham (3m1f, good); posted another good performance when runner-up in the Coral Gold Cuo at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft) when last seen; ground is fine for him; player.

9/2

Form: 1P-132 D BF

Last run: 49 days

W: 11st 1lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 156

Form & Verdict
Jumped and hung badly right in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy) last March but nevertheless battled back to win, the clear highlight among seven chases going this way round; scoring by 31l at Ascot (3m5f, good; 12lb higher today) was a good way to start this season and he's run with credit over hurdles since; going left-handed is a concern but there are lots of positives otherwise.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Beauport

10st 11lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

Took well to these fences in last year's renewal but subsided rapidly after three out, which might have been surprising for one who'd won a 4m2f Midlands National (March 2024) but he seemed to race a bit too zestfully in the front rank; 3lb lower today, having run respectably on reappearance but moderately in two hurdle races since (wind surgery before latest); now tongue tied first time; a bit to prove.

100/1

4th

3

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 58y

Class 1

14:05 Haydock

Beauport

11st 2lb

J: Toby McCain-Mitchell

T: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

10yo who was pulled up in Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot in December and conditional Toby McCain-Mitchell is unable to claim today; however, he's had wind surgery since his latest outing, which might help, and he was second in this 12 months ago having finished third in the Long Walk the time before; it will be no surprise to see a bold bid from this prominent-racer.

10/1

12th

12

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Beauport

11st 1lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

Jumped and hung badly right in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy) last March but nevertheless battled back to win, the clear highlight among seven chases going this way round; scoring by 31l at Ascot (3m5f, good; 12lb higher today) was a good way to start this season and he's run with credit over hurdles since; going left-handed is a concern but there are lots of positives otherwise.

22/1

Form: F22999

Last run: 62 days

W: 10st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Second in the Kerry and Munster Nationals but they are over just 3m; beaten 20l in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f; the furthest he's been) next time and similar in two more big handicaps since, making his recent form figures 999; first run since leaving Willie Mullins for 50,000gns one month ago.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

2nd May 2026

Good

3m 0f 10y

Class 2

14:35 Uttoxeter

Horantzau Dairy

11st 1lb

J: Charlie Hammond

T: Stuart Edmunds

Now 5lb lower than when second for Micheal Keady here (2m4f, good) just under a year ago but both subsequent runs for Sara Bradstock were disappointing and he was well beaten in Cheltenham Festival cross-country chase on stable debut in March; now sports cheekpieces; needs to get career back on track.

20/1

11th

10

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Horantzau Dairy

10st 5lb

J: Charlie Hammond

T: Stuart Edmunds

Very useful handicap chaser for Willie Mullins in 2024 and placed for Michael Keady last spring (2m4f, good) but absent since pulled up for Sara Bradstock in September (bled from the nose); now with another new stable for cross-country debut; 4lb wrong; best to look elsewhere.

66/1

1

23rd Sep 2025

Good

3m 1f 100y

Class 3

16:30 Warwick

Horantzau Dairy

12st 0lb

J: Miss Lily Bradstock

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Temptingly treated on the best of his form for Willie Mullins; had two runs for Michael Keady, outclassed in the Grand National but then runner-up at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good); ran well for a long way in Market Rasen's Summer Plate (2m5f) on debut for current yard and this trip is a better fit; respected.

5/1

Form: -P6913

Last run: 24 days

W: 10st 6lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Strong-finishing second off this mark in the 2023 Grand National (good to soft) but faded badly from turning for home on his second crack at it; blinkers have brought him back to his best in banks/cross-country races on his last two outings; latest was at Cheltenham last month when nearly taking the wrong course early on did not help, he was outpaced when the race warmed up and then finished strongly; that reminder of the 2023 National puts him back into each-way calculations.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Vanillier

10st 7lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: Gavin Cromwell

Thorough stayer who came second in the 2023 Grand National; not very consistent nowadays but did very well to finish third behind Stumptown in this race last year (good to soft), having lost ground when nearly taking the wrong course in early stages, and returns here after a win on Bank course at Punchestown (3m1f, soft to heavy) last month.

7/1

Form: 6-2383

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
Won the 2022 King George and second in the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup (he's unraced beyond that 3m2f); a run of seconds late in 2023 was creditable but more substantial doubts have now set in and various equipment has been tried; to look on the bright side, he makes his first foray outside Grade 1 or 2 for over three years and his handicap mark has plummeted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

13

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Bravemansgame

11st 0lb

J: James Reveley

T: Paul Nicholls

Won the 2022 King George and second in the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup (he's unraced beyond that 3m2f); a run of seconds late in 2023 was creditable but more substantial doubts have now set in and various equipment has been tried; to look on the bright side, he makes his first foray outside Grade 1 or 2 for over three years and his handicap mark has plummeted.

40/1

15th

13

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Bravemansgame

11st 0lb

J: James Reveley

T: Paul Nicholls

Won the 2022 King George and second in the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup (he's unraced beyond that 3m2f); a run of seconds late in 2023 was creditable but more substantial doubts have now set in and various equipment has been tried; to look on the bright side, he makes his first foray outside Grade 1 or 2 for over three years and his handicap mark has plummeted.

40/1

3rd

5

8th Feb 2025

Soft

2m 7f 86y

Class 1

14:25 Newbury

Bravemansgame

11st 2lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

prominent, disputed lead from 5th

5/2

Form: 9-5515

Last run: 70 days

W: 10st 13lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
Very smart in his heyday; returned to chasing at Cheltenham (extended 3m1f, soft) on New Year's Day and looked much more like his old self, asserting late on in a five-runner handicap; however, he singularly failed to back that up in a Grade 2 over that same C&D over three weeks later.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

14

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Chantry House

10st 13lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Very smart in his heyday; returned to chasing at Cheltenham (extended 3m1f, soft) on New Year's Day and looked much more like his old self, asserting late on in a five-runner handicap; however, he singularly failed to back that up in a Grade 2 over that same C&D over three weeks later.

80/1

16th

14

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Chantry House

10st 13lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Very smart in his heyday; returned to chasing at Cheltenham (extended 3m1f, soft) on New Year's Day and looked much more like his old self, asserting late on in a five-runner handicap; however, he singularly failed to back that up in a Grade 2 over that same C&D over three weeks later.

80/1

5th

3

25th Jan 2025

Good

3m 1f 56y

Class 1

14:25 Cheltenham

Chantry House

11st 4lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

towards rear, in touch with leaders 7th, weakened before 2 out, lost fourth run-in

7/1

Form: F-1P66

Last run: 22 days

W: 11st 9lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 164

Form & Verdict
All wins on soft or heavy; he's been a class act at Haydock but did not show it in two visits there this year, including on his second attempt at a marathon trip, and his sixth in last month's Cheltenham Gold Cup was a remote one; some conspicuous negatives.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

1

17th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 125y

Class 1

14:00 Haydock

Royale Pagaille

12st 0lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Five-time course winner including this race in 2021 and 2022 and the Betfair Chase in 2023 and 2024; reappeared with fine second in that Grade 1 here 56 days ago (good to soft); struggled last season after his reappearance win but this 12yo could have a big say if backing up his latest effort.

13/2

2

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Royale Pagaille

11st 9lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

All wins on soft or heavy; he's been a class act at Haydock but did not show it in two visits there this year, including on his second attempt at a marathon trip, and his sixth in last month's Cheltenham Gold Cup was a remote one; some conspicuous negatives.

80/1

2

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Royale Pagaille

11st 9lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

All wins on soft or heavy; he's been a class act at Haydock but did not show it in two visits there this year, including on his second attempt at a marathon trip, and his sixth in last month's Cheltenham Gold Cup was a remote one; some conspicuous negatives.

80/1

Form: 2-5351

Last run: 76 days

W: 11st 2lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 157

Form & Verdict
Rarely seen over even 3m, though has run respectably at it; back near his best when a strong finish over nearly 2m5f secured him a Grade 2 win by 6l at Thurles (good) in January on latest start, for his first success in two years, but that has put him back up the weights.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

18th Jan 2026

Yielding

2m 4f 66y

15:20 Thurles

Appreciate It

11st 8lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Former top-class novice hurdler still going strong at the veteran stage; beat two shorter-priced stablemates in this race last season; brought down at the 21st in the Grand National; smart form when chasing home stablemate Gaelic Warrior in the Oaksey Chase at Sandown; resumed with second to Affordale Fury here in November; form franked in the Savills.

10/11

2nd

1

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 6f 164y

Class 1

14:25 Sandown

Appreciate It

11st 8lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

11yo who ended a long losing run when beating stablemate Classic Getaway by 6l in Grade 2 at Thurles in January (2m5f, good); brought down ten fences out in the Grand National three weeks ago; it's possible he might run into a place but a few of the others have stronger claims.

16/1

Form: U58708

Last run: 23 days

W: 11st 2lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 157

Form & Verdict
Not proven beyond 3m2f; contested Grade 1s at this meeting for the last three years, twice finishing runner-up, and he was third in the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup; this season's results, contrastingly, look pretty grim but he did lead turning for home in a Cheltenham handicap last month (finished eighth) which showed that something is still smouldering.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

16

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Conflated

10st 8lb

J: James Bowen

T: Gordon Elliott

Finished third in the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup; showed some spark around Punchestown's banks course this February but this 12yo is nothing like the force of old and was well beaten in the cross-country race at Cheltenham last month; without a win since December 2022 and looks up against it.

66/1

9th

5

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Conflated

10st 7lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Top class over regulation fences in his prime (dual 3m Grade 1 winner) but has regressed and become inconsistent; gave a pretty good account when placed behind Vanillier on Bank course at Punchestown (3m1f, soft to heavy; refitted cheekpieces/first-time tongue-tie) last month but was well beaten on his only C&D start (in 2024); younger rivals appeal much more.

25/1

3rd

6

4th Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 0f 193y

12:28 Punchestown

Conflated

11st 4lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

High-class in his day, winning a brace of Grade 1 Leopardstown contests at 3m; not at that level nowadays, including fourth in C&D cross-country chase at last year's festival; runner-up on latest two runs in point-to-points, most recently at Tyrella 11 days ago; new headgear combination; Jack Kennedy prefers The Goffer.

7/2

Form: -U1111

Last run: 24 days

W: 11st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 157

Form & Verdict
Cross-country chasing could hardly have gone better, which augurs well, as does his markedly improved form over 3m5f in the Cheltenham version on last two outings; spending the last third of it off the bridle at the Festival last month (with first-time cheekpieces; last season's blinkers now return) is a niggling worry, and slogging it out was a taxing as well as serious achievement, but he finished well on top and can race off the same mark today; on the shortlist.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Stumptown

11st 10lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Dual C&D winner last season, latterly when beating Latenightpass by 7l in this race (good to soft; first-time cheekpieces); seen only once this term, landing prestigious Velka Pardubicka cross-country chase in Czech Republic (4m2f, good; back in cheekpieces) in October, and has a lofty handicap mark to overcome but still commands respect; blinkers back on today.

11/4

10

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Stumptown

11st 2lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Cross-country chasing could hardly have gone better, which augurs well, as does his markedly improved form over 3m5f in the Cheltenham version on last two outings; spending the last third of it off the bridle at the Festival last month (with first-time cheekpieces; last season's blinkers now return) is a niggling worry, and slogging it out was a taxing as well as serious achievement, but he finished well on top and can race off the same mark today; on the shortlist.

10/1

10

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Stumptown

11st 2lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Cross-country chasing could hardly have gone better, which augurs well, as does his markedly improved form over 3m5f in the Cheltenham version on last two outings; spending the last third of it off the bridle at the Festival last month (with first-time cheekpieces; last season's blinkers now return) is a niggling worry, and slogging it out was a taxing as well as serious achievement, but he finished well on top and can race off the same mark today; on the shortlist.

10/1

Form: 83-222

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 1lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 156

Form & Verdict
It's impossible to ignore that he's won only once (November 2022) in the last four years; minor honours include second in last three renewals of the Grade 2 Denman Chase at Newbury (2m7f) in February, which made it three creditable seconds from his three starts this term, but it would be bold to predict that this first go beyond 3m will take him back to the winner's enclosure.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Hitman

11st 7lb

J: Freddie Gingell

T: Paul Nicholls

10yo who has become inconsistent and hasn't shone on his last two starts; however, he has a good record over regulation fences here and has the same mark as when winning the Old Roan (2m4f, good to soft) last October; prominent for a fair way in last season's Grand National; not written off.

33/1

1

17th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 13y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Hitman

12st 0lb

J: Freddie Gingell

T: Paul Nicholls

Runner-up in this race last year and he ended a long losing sequence in the Old Roan at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) on reappearance; however, he's less consistent than he once was and he was well held in the Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon last time; needs to bounce back from that.

8/1

3

26th Oct 2025

Good

2m 3f 200y

Class 1

14:55 Aintree

Hitman

11st 3lb

J: Freddie Gingell

T: Paul Nicholls

9yo who has won just one of his last 21 starts and struggled on his final two outings last season (albeit in Grand National on first occasion); however, he often runs very well, as when runner-up in this race last year (good) and in 2022 (good to soft), and there's every chance he'll be bang there.

6/1

Form: 210-32

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 12lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
Fourth in the 2023 Scottish National (4m, good); commendable efforts most starts since and he went down by a nose off today's mark at Ascot (3m, good) last time; big odds but place possibilities.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:00 Ascot

Threeunderthrufive

11st 7lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Two attempts in this race comprise a success in 2024 and close second last year, both off higher marks; however, has a doubt over current form and needs to stage a revival.

10/1

3

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Threeunderthrufive

11st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Fourth in the 2023 Scottish National (4m, good); commendable efforts most starts since, for instance beaten a nose by Victtorino at Ascot (3m, good; 1lb higher today) in February, but this race last year was not one of them and neither was the Grand National three weeks ago.

16/1

3

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Threeunderthrufive

11st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Fourth in the 2023 Scottish National (4m, good); commendable efforts most starts since, for instance beaten a nose by Victtorino at Ascot (3m, good; 1lb higher today) in February, but this race last year was not one of them and neither was the Grand National three weeks ago.

16/1

Form: 286411

Last run: 63 days

W: 10st 12lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
His three handicap wins have all been in large fields; two were over hurdles, including latest start, and he also worked his way from well off the pace to surge 7l clear in the valuable Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown (good to yielding) over Christmas; looks sure to stay further than that extended 3m but this first attempt is over a lot further; not the most fluent jumper and needs to improve again but he comes here on a high.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

1

25th May 2026

Good

2m 7f 80y

18:35 Ballinrobe

Perceval Legallois

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Talented sort won Paddy Power at Leopardstown in 2024 and valuable handicap hurdle back there at last year's DRF; only 10-1 for last year's Grand National where he fell early on; well back when unseating 4 out in the National last month and pulled up at Punchestown; has worn a tongue-tie before, cheekpieces now added.

16/1

3

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

15:45 Punchestown

Perceval Legallois

11st 10lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Won major 3m handicaps at Leopardstown last season over fences and hurdles; light campaign this term with Aintree in mind but never counted before unseating four out in National last month; fresher horse than most of these so could improve but certainly needs to.

20/1

23

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Perceval Legallois

10st 9lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Gavin Cromwell

Won major 3m handicaps at Leopardstown over fences (by 7l, going away) and hurdles before starting joint-third favourite for last year's National, but he fell on the first circuit; it's too early to forget his best performance (Christmas 2024) but with nothing to shout about in his two races this winter, this time he could be an outsider.

33/1

Form: P23-18

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 11lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Negotiated these fences in dashing style when staying-on third in the 2m5f Topham (soft) last April and returned from wind surgery to win the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (upped to 3m2f, good to soft) in November from Broadway Boy; 7lb higher today; had a run at Newbury five weeks ago and, although there are slightly mixed signals with that display and whether he will be suited by this distance, he looks set for a bold show.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Kandoo Kid

10st 11lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Negotiated these fences in dashing style when staying-on third in the 2m5f Topham (soft) last April and returned from wind surgery to win the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (upped to 3m2f, good to soft) in November from Broadway Boy; 7lb higher today; had a run at Newbury five weeks ago and, although there are slightly mixed signals with that display and whether he will be suited by this distance, he looks set for a bold show.

20/1

17

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Kandoo Kid

10st 11lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Negotiated these fences in dashing style when staying-on third in the 2m5f Topham (soft) last April and returned from wind surgery to win the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (upped to 3m2f, good to soft) in November from Broadway Boy; 7lb higher today; had a run at Newbury five weeks ago and, although there are slightly mixed signals with that display and whether he will be suited by this distance, he looks set for a bold show.

20/1

8th

1

1st Mar 2025

Soft

2m 3f 187y

Class 1

15:45 Newbury

Kandoo Kid

12st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Grand National hope who landed the big 3m2f handicap here (good to soft; sole outing this term) in November, taking Newbury record to 2121; not crying out for this drop back in trip but ran well in this race last year and warrants respect kept to a course that suits him well.

7/1

Form: 11-902

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 10lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Just a 7yo but he contested chases in France as early as March 2022; unbeaten last year in his first three Irish races, culminating in the Irish Grand National (3m5f, heavy) in which he was always prominent and overcame an uncharacteristic blunder four out; they'll go a lot faster today, while he's also on different ground (the big question) and switching to a left-handed chase, but he made an excellent return to fences just behind Nick Rockett at Fairyhouse six weeks ago and that makes him look one of the best handicapped contenders in this race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

1

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Intense Raffles

11st 12lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Thomas Gibney

All three chase wins have been at Fairyhouse, notably the 2024 Irish National; well below best this season however, most recently at same venue in Grade 3 Bobbyjo Chase in February; hard to be confident in and wants softer ground.

20/1

6th

8

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Intense Raffles

11st 0lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Thomas Gibney

Best efforts have come at this track with all three chase wins coming here, notably the 2024 Irish National; chased home Nick Rockett in this race last season; performances this season have been disappointing; faded from four out at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft); pulled up in the Welsh National (3m6f, good to soft) and same story in the Theyestes last time; needs to come back to form.

28/1

2

22nd Jan 2026

Heavy

3m 1f 0y

15:30 Gowran Park

Intense Raffles

11st 11lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Thomas Gibney

Best efforts at Fairyhouse; all three chase wins there, notably the 2024 Irish National; confirmed liking for that track when chasing home Nick Rockett last February; failed to take to the fences in the Grand National; faded from four out in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury in November; very laboured display in the Welsh National, pulled up at the 15th; up against it now.

12/1

Form: F03106

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 10lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
40-1 winner at Kilbeggan (3m1f, good to yielding; the furthest he's been) last July and ran respectably in the Galway Plate (his only race with today's tongue-tie) before leaving Noel Meade for 60,000gns last August; probably in need of the race over hurdles on debut for new yard five weeks ago, but this 11yo needs a big career best.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

3rd May 2025

Good

3m 0f 10y

Class 2

17:55 Uttoxeter

Idas Boy

12st 0lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Richard Phillips

Fared respectably in the Galway Plate before leaving Noel Meade for 60,000gns last August; tailed off over hurdles on stable debut before pulling up when 100-1 for the Grand National; an 11yo now and has to concede plenty of weight all round.

25/1

1

3rd May 2025

Good

3m 0f 10y

Class 2

17:55 Uttoxeter

Idas Boy

12st 0lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Richard Phillips

Fared respectably in the Galway Plate before leaving Noel Meade for 60,000gns last August; tailed off over hurdles on stable debut before pulling up when 100-1 for the Grand National; an 11yo now and has to concede plenty of weight all round.

25/1

21

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Idas Boy

10st 10lb

J: Harry Bannister

T: Richard Phillips

40-1 winner at Kilbeggan (3m1f, good to yielding; the furthest he's been) last July and ran respectably in the Galway Plate (his only race with today's tongue-tie) before leaving Noel Meade for 60,000gns last August; probably in need of the race over hurdles on debut for new yard five weeks ago, but this 11yo needs a big career best.

100/1

Form: 212433

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 150

Form & Verdict
2-14 score over fences and the second win came at 1-40 in a two-runner race; a notch or two below his best this season and his penultimate start (sole attempt over as far as 3m) was not promising for stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

(7)

2nd Sep 2025

Good

1m 6f 0y

17:37 Gowran Park

Fil Dor

9st 9lb

J: Chris Hayes

T: Gordon Elliott

Smart jumper with four wins over hurdles and two over fences including in Grade 2 company; was runner-up on sole Flat start in France in 2021 over this trip; might find this trip a bit sharp now but should run a big race.

11/2

2nd

3

20th Apr 2025

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:57 Cork

Fil Dor

11st 0lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

raced in second, challenging when briefly left in lead 2 out, soon faced challenge, headed approaching last, no chance with winner run-in

100/30

2nd

3

20th Apr 2025

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:57 Cork

Fil Dor

11st 0lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

raced in second, challenging when briefly left in lead 2 out, soon faced challenge, headed approaching last, no chance with winner run-in

100/30

Form: 5-324P

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 150

Form & Verdict
Started this season brightly, notably when second to Kandoo Kid in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft); he'd have a good shout judged on that display and going beyond 3m2f made plenty of appeal even before that; however, he disappointed at Cheltenham on New Year's Day and ran badly there last month; cheekpieces (tried at this meeting last year, tailed off) return.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

23

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Broadway Boy

10st 9lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

Started this season brightly, notably when second to Kandoo Kid in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft); he'd have a good shout judged on that display and going beyond 3m2f made plenty of appeal even before that; however, he disappointed at Cheltenham on New Year's Day and ran badly there last month; cheekpieces (tried at this meeting last year, tailed off) return.

66/1

23

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Broadway Boy

10st 9lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

Started this season brightly, notably when second to Kandoo Kid in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft); he'd have a good shout judged on that display and going beyond 3m2f made plenty of appeal even before that; however, he disappointed at Cheltenham on New Year's Day and ran badly there last month; cheekpieces (tried at this meeting last year, tailed off) return.

66/1

3

11th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Broadway Boy

11st 12lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

Didn't jump fluently when below par here on New Year's Day; however, he's reportedly had his knees medicated since and two starts ago was a fine second in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f, good to soft); two wins here (3m/3m2f) during last season's novice campaign; in the mix if back on song.

7/1

Form: U50029

Last run: 24 days

W: 10st 9lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 150

Form & Verdict
Entered this race last year as one of the top weights and having been in career-best form, including at 3m2f over these fences; he duly came up with easily his closest finish here in three Grand Nationals but was beaten 33l even so; this season has continued well below form.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

24

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Coko Beach

10st 9lb

J: Jody McGarvey

T: Gordon Elliott

Entered this race last year as one of the top weights and having been in career-best form, including at 3m2f over these fences; he duly came up with easily his closest finish here in three Grand Nationals but was beaten 33l even so; this season has continued well below form.

66/1

Form: 3PP-P0

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 150

Form & Verdict
Won Grade 1 novice hurdle at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival (3m, soft) and made a promising start to chasing career last season, when he continued to look all about stamina; his career has taken a spectacular wrong turn since but there was a slight hint last time of getting back on track.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 58y

Class 2

15:50 Haydock

Stay Away Fay

12st 0lb

J: Freddie Gingell

T: Paul Nicholls

Had struggled badly in recent years but belatedly showed a smart level of ability remains when second over C&D (soft) in first-time blinkers (retained) four weeks ago; put back up 4lb but retains handicapping scope if building on that, with his top stable's good form providing hope that he can.

12/1

2nd

1

17th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 58y

Class 3

14:35 Haydock

Stay Away Fay

12st 0lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Won a Grade 1 novice hurdle and Grade 2 novice chase in 2023; his mark continues to tumble but for good reason and a major revival is required with first-time blinkers replacing cheekpieces.

25/1

25

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Stay Away Fay

10st 9lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Paul Nicholls

Won Grade 1 novice hurdle at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival (3m, soft) and made a promising start to chasing career last season, when he continued to look all about stamina; his career has taken a spectacular wrong turn since but there was a slight hint last time of getting back on track.

66/1

Form: 5P-241

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Familiar contender in major handicaps who was better than ever when dictating the pace for a Uttoxeter win (3m, soft) in February with second-time cheekpieces; however, he's back up 5lb as a result and while his 13l fourth in the Welsh National (near 3m7f, soft) was respectable, today's task may also prove a bit too demanding.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

12th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Monbeg Genius

11st 10lb

J: Mr J L Scallan

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Third in the Ultima here (3m1f, soft) in March 2023; this 10yo has run respectably in the Welsh National (3m6f, good to soft) and Haydock Grand National Trial (3m4f, good to soft) on his last two starts and is now below his last winning mark; not discounted with blinkers replacing cheekpieces.

33/1

7th

2

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 4f 97y

Class 1

15:15 Haydock

Monbeg Genius

11st 11lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

10yo who won at Uttoxeter (3m, soft) last February and returned to form when fifth of 17 in the Welsh National at Chepstow (3m6f, good to soft) in December, when 7l and two places behind Deafening Silence; now back down to last winning mark and might not be far away.

11/1

6th

7

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Monbeg Genius

10st 5lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Dictated the pace for a Uttoxeter win (3m, soft; 3lb higher today) in February with second-time cheekpieces (kept since) in a less demanding race than he's often appeared in; 13l fourth in the Welsh National (near 3m7f, soft) was respectable but he did not spark in the big one at Aintree three weeks ago and good ground would give him more to prove.

33/1

Form: 141122 BF

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Best away from soft ground; saw the 3m out well on last two starts when second at Kempton in a Grade 1 novice and a major handicap; reverting to a left-handed track here may help his jumping; however, he switched from hurdling only last June and, notwithstanding his three small-field wins, six runs over fences is a slight record for a would-be Grand National winner.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

13

10th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 1

15:20 Cheltenham

Hyland

11st 0lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

Won Listed novice chase here (3m, good) in November 2024; 0-5 in handicaps in 2025 but having edged down the weights he was a close fourth at Ascot (3m, good to soft) in December last time; 3-5 here and, with the drying ground in his favour, he could be in the mix in first-time cheekpieces.

11/1

3

25th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Cheltenham

Hyland

11st 11lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

Doesn't want the ground worse than good to soft; took care of Transmission here last October and followed up in a Listed novice at the track, beating subsequent improver Resplendent Grey; nothing wrong with his following seconds (3m; Grade 1/hot handicap) and can be forgiven his no-show in the Grand National; goes well fresh and very feasible that there's further improvement to come.

11/2

30

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Hyland

10st 6lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

Best away from soft ground; saw the 3m out well on last two starts when second at Kempton in a Grade 1 novice and a major handicap; reverting to a left-handed track here may help his jumping; however, he switched from hurdling only last June and, notwithstanding his three small-field wins, six runs over fences is a slight record for a would-be Grand National winner.

18/1

Form: 45U4-1

Last run: 143 days

W: 10st 6lb

13 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Completed on all three attempts over these fences, easily best of those efforts when close fourth in last season's Topham (2m5f, soft); has twice won well over about 3m/3m1f, including in November on sole start this term, but today's trip is a leap in the dark and this 13yo has easily his highest mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

31

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Celebre DAllen

10st 6lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Completed on all three attempts over these fences, easily best of those efforts when close fourth in last season's Topham (2m5f, soft); has twice won well over about 3m/3m1f, including in November on sole start this term, but today's trip is a leap in the dark and this 13yo has easily his highest mark.

100/1

31

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Celebre DAllen

10st 6lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Completed on all three attempts over these fences, easily best of those efforts when close fourth in last season's Topham (2m5f, soft); has twice won well over about 3m/3m1f, including in November on sole start this term, but today's trip is a leap in the dark and this 13yo has easily his highest mark.

100/1

Form: 352P4B

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Best away from soft ground; runner-up with big late gains in the 2m6f Galway Plate last July; sole chase win (13 attempts) was the Mayo National at Ballinrobe last May which is not much beyond 2m7f, but he was running a big race, keeping on in a 6l fourth, when brought down two out in the 3m6f NH Chase at Cheltenham last month; could belie huge odds.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Duffle Coat

10st 13lb

J: James Smith

T: Gordon Elliott

Sole win over fences came in 3m Mayo National in 2024 on good ground; good second in Galway Plate that summer but last year's form was poor; pulled up after never counting on return from long absence in Irish National; hard to be confident in although has ground to suit.

20/1

9th

11

24th Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 7f 180y

16:23 Listowel

Duffle Coat

11st 0lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

1-17 over fences; out of form since second in last season's Galway Plate; failed to feature in this year's edition; trainer has stronger candidates.

33/1

Form: 10-F50

Last run: 23 days

W: 10st 4lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
11yo whose three peak ratings were recorded over an extended 2m4f in the mud at Cheltenham, notably his Plate win at the 2024 Festival (2lb higher today); flew over these fences in the Topham next time but cracked badly in the closing stages and he's not really got going this season, 14th back in the Plate last time; lots of doubts.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

35

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

10st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

11yo whose three peak ratings were recorded over an extended 2m4f in the mud at Cheltenham, notably his Plate win at the 2024 Festival (2lb higher today); flew over these fences in the Topham next time but cracked badly in the closing stages and he's not really got going this season, 14th back in the Plate last time; lots of doubts.

66/1

35

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

10st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

11yo whose three peak ratings were recorded over an extended 2m4f in the mud at Cheltenham, notably his Plate win at the 2024 Festival (2lb higher today); flew over these fences in the Topham next time but cracked badly in the closing stages and he's not really got going this season, 14th back in the Plate last time; lots of doubts.

66/1

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

11st 1lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Runs off the same mark as for his Cheltenham Festival win last year (2m4f, soft) and he was a creditable fourth of 15 in this race in 2023 (good to soft); however, he was outstayed on that occasion and this 11yo has finished down the field on both outings this year.

25/1

Form: -21576

Last run: 7 days

W: 10st 4lb

13 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Bold show when seventh in this race in 2023 but he did not take to it so well when ninth last year; impressive in a French cross-country race in September but has not shone since, particularly back in France last Saturday, and he lacked any finishing punch when seventh in the Cheltenham cross-country; 13yo but the handicapper is showing very few concessions for his age.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

17th Mar 2026

Yielding

3m 2f 50y

15:38 Down Royal

Roi Mage

11st 10lb

J: Harry Sexton

T: Patrick Griffin

Veteran who won 3m6f Listed cross-country race at Craon last September, repeating a 2024 success; finished seventh in the 2023 Grand National and ninth in 2024; pulled up the Becher in December on his most recent Aintree run; won this event in 2022 and second in 2023 and 2024; asking a lot now at the age of 14.

33/1

36

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Roi Mage

10st 4lb

J: Mark McDonagh

T: Patrick Griffin

Bold show when seventh in this race in 2023 but he did not take to it so well when ninth last year; impressive in a French cross-country race in September but has not shone since, particularly back in France last Saturday, and he lacked any finishing punch when seventh in the Cheltenham cross-country; 13yo but the handicapper is showing very few concessions for his age.

100/1

36

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Roi Mage

10st 4lb

J: Mark McDonagh

T: Patrick Griffin

Bold show when seventh in this race in 2023 but he did not take to it so well when ninth last year; impressive in a French cross-country race in September but has not shone since, particularly back in France last Saturday, and he lacked any finishing punch when seventh in the Cheltenham cross-country; 13yo but the handicapper is showing very few concessions for his age.

100/1

Form: 1-8331

Last run: 19 days

W: 10st 3lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
13l behind the runner-up when he finished third in two hot Irish handicaps (3m1f/3m3f) in the mud this winter, before making the most of it when his sights were lowered in a three-runner race (3m2f, good) 19 days ago; well beaten when falling in last year's Irish National and balance of his form suggests this task will also prove tough.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

14

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Favori De Champdou

11st 1lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Experienced 11yo who's having a tremendous season; 66-1 winner of a top 3m handicap at Leopardstown (made most) over Christmas and took his form to another new level on the 3m5f Cheltenham cross-country course on last two outings, winning easily on first occasion and well clear of the third when he chased home Final Orders at last month's Festival; well handicapped and with the trip likely to suit, he's a leading contender.

40/1

2nd

2

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Favori De Champdou

11st 5lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Fell mid-race here on cross-country debut in December but quickly bounced back when causing 66-1 shock in valuable handicap over regulation fences at Leopardstown's Christmas festival (3m, yielding) before winning comfortably by just over 8l returned to this C&D (soft) in January; still unexposed in this discipline; strong contender.

5/2

1st

1

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

Favori De Champdou

12st 0lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Fell mid-race here on last month's cross-country debut but quickly bounced back, causing 66-1 shock in valuable handicap over regulation fences at Leopardstown's Christmas festival (3m, yielding); well worth another go over this C&D and evidently in prime form.

8/1

Form: 1-423P

Last run: 23 days

W: 10st 3lb

10 yo Mare

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Pulled up in the 3m2f Kim Muir at Cheltenham last month in first-time cheekpieces, which leaves her stamina beyond 3m unproven, although it was not the trip which accounted for her poor show there (following two solid efforts); second over these fences in the 2023 Topham, sixth in it last year and she's due to have another crack at that race on Friday.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

16th May 2025

Good

3m 0f 210y

Class 2

18:55 Aintree

Fantastic Lady

12st 0lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Smart mare who ended 2023-24 season in career-best form, winning Sandown Grade 2 (2m6f, good); not much went to plan last term but she was going well until bad jumping error knocked the stuffing out of her in last month's Topham over the big fences here and she remains well handicapped.

4/1

1

16th May 2025

Good

3m 0f 210y

Class 2

18:55 Aintree

Fantastic Lady

12st 0lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Smart mare who ended 2023-24 season in career-best form, winning Sandown Grade 2 (2m6f, good); not much went to plan last term but she was going well until bad jumping error knocked the stuffing out of her in last month's Topham over the big fences here and she remains well handicapped.

4/1

38

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Fantastic Lady

10st 3lb

T: Nicky Henderson

Pulled up in the 3m2f Kim Muir at Cheltenham last month in first-time cheekpieces, which leaves her stamina beyond 3m unproven, although it was not the trip which accounted for her poor show there (following two solid efforts); second over these fences in the 2023 Topham, sixth in it last year and she's due to have another crack at that race on Friday.

80/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £221.40
Straight Forecast £222.48
Tricast £7665.04
Trifecta £6850.50

Selections

The Times:

Perceval Legallois

THE NORTH:

Iroko

LAMBOURN:

Hyland

D Express:

Meetingofthewaters

Daily Record:

Intense Raffles

RP RATINGS:

Stumptown

SPOTLIGHT:

Minella Cocooner

WEST COUNTRY:

Kandoo Kid

The Star:

Beauport

POSTDATA:

Hitman

Daily Mail:

Vanillier

TOPSPEED:

Bravemansgame

The Guardian:

Iroko

Telegraph:

Perceval Legallois

Daily Mirror:

Perceval Legallois