April 20 / 15.35 Ayr

15.35

Soft

Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £112540
  • 3m 7f 176y
  • Class 1
  • 26 runners
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Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 26 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

8/1 (Won)

  • Win: £19.20
  • Place: £4.60

Form: -682F1

Last run: 19 days

W: 10st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
6yo who's had only nine races; sent chasing this term, easily best of his five chase runs when upped markedly to 3m on latest start and winning by 12l from the front in a nine-runner handicap at Fairyhouse (heavy); has a much higher mark today and he'd be the first 6yo to win this since Earth Summit 30 years ago, but that latest display showed major staying potential.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Macdermott

11st 6lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

All his form is on soft or heavy ground, including two handicap wins last April and the second of those was this race by a nose from Surrey Quest (always prominent); 5lb higher today but the chief worry is that he's been so horrendously out of form this season.

11/1

5

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Macdermott

11st 6lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

All his form is on soft or heavy ground, including two handicap wins last April and the second of those was this race by a nose from Surrey Quest (always prominent); 5lb higher today but the chief worry is that he's been so horrendously out of form this season.

11/1

3

20th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 3f 0y

14:25 Punchestown

Macdermott

11st 6lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Two wins last April including the Scottish National; totally out of form in first two starts this term; jinked and unseated rider at start of the Thyestes.

16/1

33/1

  • Place: £6.20

Form: 47-110

Last run: 84 days

W: 10st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Ended his time with Nicky Henderson under a cloud but emerged for new yard with wins in October and December; the latter followed wind surgery and came at Newbury (3m2f, soft; furthest he's been) where he emerged best in a fine scrap as the first two drew well clear; this 5lb higher mark may well underestimate that performance but he needs to bounce back from a disappointing show at Doncaster in January.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Mar 2026

Good

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

16:28 Kempton

Surrey Quest

11st 12lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

High-class staying chase form includes a close second in the 2024 Scottish National but he fell in that race last year and hasn't shown a glimmer of his old ability over hurdles or fences since; lots to prove.

20/1

3

19th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 4f 178y

Class 3

13:50 Lingfield

Surrey Quest

11st 11lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

Very useful marathon chaser on his day but looked out of sorts in three hurdle races towards end of last year; given another wind operation (his third) since; well handicapped but reverts to chasing with lots to prove.

25/1

14th

9

25th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 208y

Class 2

14:55 Cheltenham

Surrey Quest

10st 11lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

Very useful marathon chaser on his day; didn't run anything like as badly as 61l defeat might suggest when making seasonal debut in recent 2m7f hurdle race at Uttoxeter but needs that outing to have brought him on.

33/1

6/1

  • Place: £2.60

Form: 11-162

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Mastered Whacker Clan two out in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham (3m2f, soft) five weeks ago and beat him 18l into third, facing an impossible task however against Inothewayurthinkin who has since added an impressive Grade 1 novice win at Aintree; has never been further than that big-race second over 3m2f but has had entries in major staying handicaps and may well be suited by today's test.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

17

18th Apr 2026

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Git Maker

10st 12lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Jamie Snowden

The key to him is soft ground, on which he was third in this race in 2024 and had for the first time since over fences when third of 16 off today's mark to Isaac Des Obeaux in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter (4m2f) on latest outing; blinkered on last two outings; each-way claims.

11/1

3rd

7

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 8y

Class 1

15:00 Uttoxeter

Git Maker

11st 5lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Jamie Snowden

The key to him is soft ground which he had when third in the 2024 Scottish National (4m); hasn't had his favoured conditions since then over fences and, with the ground drying out (officially good to soft) in the Grand National Trial at Haydock last time, he ran surprisingly well to be a close fifth, keeping on; the first-time blinkers fitted there, which did him no harm, are retained; chance.

8/1

5th

6

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 4f 97y

Class 1

15:15 Haydock

Git Maker

10st 12lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Jamie Snowden

10yo whose form was patchy in 2025 and he was never going well when pulled up in the Welsh National in December (3m6f, good to soft); however, today's forecast soft ground could help and he's 4lb lower than when third in the 2024 Scottish National (4m, soft); not written off in first-time blinkers.

9/1

25/1

  • Place: £10.80

Form: 6-3F32

Last run: 21 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Bumper win in March 2022; has had only six races since and failed to win but he's been competitive sent chasing this season, beaten a neck on handicap debut at Fairyhouse (2m5f, heavy) three weeks ago; 2m7f performance the time before backs up the suggestion that serious stamina tests could suit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Klarc Kent

10st 2lb

J: Kieran Callaghan

T: W P Mullins

0-14 since bumper win in 2022; fourth and second in the last two Scottish Nationals, latterly off a reduced mark when wearing second-time cheekpieces two weeks ago; while that was a welcome return to form, position 12lb out of the handicap today demands so much more; 5lb claimer is called up.

25/1

18

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Klarc Kent

10st 2lb

J: Kieran Callaghan

T: W P Mullins

0-14 since bumper win in 2022; fourth and second in the last two Scottish Nationals, latterly off a reduced mark when wearing second-time cheekpieces two weeks ago; while that was a welcome return to form, position 12lb out of the handicap today demands so much more; 5lb claimer is called up.

25/1

2nd

21

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Klarc Kent

10st 2lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: W P Mullins

Won a bumper three years ago but 0-13 since; competitive over fences last season and his 6l fourth at 50-1 in this race (soft; 8lb lower today) last April reads well, but a poor sequence since was not greatly improved by his eighth when wearing first-time cheekpieces in last month's 3m6f NH Chase.

20/1

Form: 65/PP7

Last run: 41 days

W: 10st 11lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Unraced beyond 3m2f; sole chase win (12 races) was the 2021 Munster National over 3m at Limerick (soft) and that's his career-best form by some way; off 699 days before this season and he got round for the first time since on latest start, albeit beaten 22l; tongue tied in that race and today; edging down the weights but it's hard to be confident of a sufficient revival.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 7f 0y

17:42 Clonmel

Ontheropes

11st 11lb

J: Mr C Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Has run well a couple of times this season but hasn't won under Rules' since October 2021; tailed off at Uttoxeter and pulled up in the Ulster National latest; needs to revive.

16/1

12

29th Mar 2026

Yielding To Soft

3m 4f 120y

16:27 Downpatrick

Ontheropes

10st 6lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Point-to-winner last season before going hunter chasing; no success on the track since 2021; has shown fair form over hurdles this season; 1-23 record over fences is a negative.

14/1

16th

18

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

14:25 Uttoxeter

Ontheropes

10st 3lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Irish veteran who is in reasonably good form, placed at Naas (2m7f) most recently, but hasn't won under rules since 2021 and can be opposed in this competitive affair.

16/1

Form: 2P-333

Last run: 63 days

W: 10st 10lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Just 6-1 for the Martin Pipe at last year's Cheltenham Festival on handicap debut but ran poorly; back to form when third in small-field beginners chases at Gowran Park (2m4f, heavy) on last two outings and going beyond 2m4f may well be overdue, but those runs are no proof that he can cut it in this very different race; tongue-tie (worn on debut) is back on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

28th Apr 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 213y

16:50 Punchestown

Spanish Harlem

11st 10lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: W P Mullins

Smart staying handicapper at his best; won the Kerry National at Listowel last September and looked set for victory in the Thyestes at Gowran Park in January when unseating at the final fence; pulled up in the Bobbyjo at Fairyhouse, same outcome in the Grand National.

25/1

10

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Spanish Harlem

11st 3lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Career with Willie Mullins took a long time to catch fire but it's done so this season and he looked set for victory in the Thyestes at Gowran Park (3m1f, heavy) in January when unseating at the final fence; pulled up behind Grangeclare West last time but back catalogue includes a creditable sixth in the Scottish National and fourth in bet365 Cup at Sandown, so he stays long distances; his revised mark since the Thyestes would be the chief worry.

33/1

9

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Spanish Harlem

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Got his first chase win at the 11th attempt at Punchestown in June before following up in the Kerry National at Listowel (3m, yielding); pulled up at Newbury but looked set for victory in the Theyestes (3m1f, heavy) last time when unseating at the final flight; firmly in the mix but Townend rides Grangeclare West.

4/1

Form: P-3P52

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Acts on soft; fourth in the 3m Grade 1 novice hurdle at 2022 Cheltenham Festival; mostly chasing since and failed to beat a rival in four runs in 2023 but he's been working his way back to form in his two runs this year, second at Sandown (3m) latest; back up 3lb but going beyond 3m1f for the first time is an attractive move.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

4

8th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 0f 52y

Class 3

13:50 Newbury

Ballygrifincottage

11st 11lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Has flattered to deceive over fences (1-12) and jumping mistakes played a part; a bit below his best on his two completions this autumn/winter and has now left Dan Skelton; blinkers replace his usual cheekpieces for this first hurdle race since March 2023; well handicapped judged on best efforts but he's now a 10yo.

20/1

9th

4

8th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 0f 52y

Class 3

13:50 Newbury

Ballygrifincottage

11st 11lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Has flattered to deceive over fences (1-12) and jumping mistakes played a part; a bit below his best on his two completions this autumn/winter and has now left Dan Skelton; blinkers replace his usual cheekpieces for this first hurdle race since March 2023; well handicapped judged on best efforts but he's now a 10yo.

20/1

2

16th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 162y

Class 3

15:45 Wincanton

Ballygrifincottage

11st 11lb

J: Fergus Gillard

T: Dan Skelton

held up in rear, not fluent 3rd

14/1

Form: 2-P23P BF

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Remote second in the Welsh National (near 3m7f, heavy) and back in top form when third at Haydock (near 3m5f, heavy) next time; pulled up in his other two starts this term, latest when Midlands National favourite (signs of post-race heat stress); 4m should suit but this season presents rather a mixed story.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

15th Apr 2026

Good

3m 1f 125y

Class 2

17:00 Haydock

Iron Bridge

10st 13lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

A strong stayer but with a strike-rate of only 2-17 over fences and excuses are wearing thin; on the plus side, they were solid enough efforts on last two starts (3m4f/3m6f) and he nearly won off this mark on his reappearance (3m2f).

9/2

3rd

1

22nd Mar 2026

Good

3m 6f 153y

Class 3

15:02 Exeter

Iron Bridge

12st 0lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Struggled on heavy ground two starts ago (first-time cheekpieces) but quickly got back on track with battling second at Haydock (3m4f, good to soft) this month; remains on a workable mark and good ground also suits; ought to make his presence felt again.

7/2

2nd

1

5th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 4f 97y

Class 3

14:45 Haydock

Iron Bridge

12st 0lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Last win came here back in 2022 and he's not proving easy to catch right nowadays either, tried in cheekpieces when pulled up in 3m2f handicap chase at Wincanton in January; others are preferred.

7/2

Form: 1-8480

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Good fourth at Doncaster (3m, good to soft) in December but backward steps in major handicaps both starts since; latest was the 3m2f Kim Muir at Cheltenham and that's the furthest he's been; it's possible that soft ground has been against him but he may get that again here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

23rd Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 20y

Class 2

15:10 Perth

Whistleinthedark

11st 0lb

J: Miss Ellie Callwood

T: L J Morgan

11yo who was tailed off at Cheltenham in December and pulled up at Haydock this month on sole run since; arrives with something to prove but three visits to Perth have yielded two wins, including this race in 2023, so he's worth a second look; a first-time visor replaces cheekpieces.

25/1

9

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 2

15:20 Haydock

Whistleinthedark

11st 3lb

J: Charlie Maggs

T: L J Morgan

Inconsistent last year but won twice (3m/2m4f, good/soft), those victories coming on the back of respective breaks of 89 and 120 days; may be best caught fresh nowadays so is worth a second look after 113 days off.

33/1

1

13th Jul 2025

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:43 Perth

Whistleinthedark

12st 0lb

J: Harry Reed

T: L J Morgan

Back in rude health over C&D (good) in May, easily beating Saint Arvans to win by 20l, and his subsequent Market Rasen fourth (2m5f, good) was also a good effort; still well handicapped on old form; shortlisted.

3/1

Form: 21-1P4

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Both chase wins were over 3m in the mud at Uttoxeter; bled from the nose in the Welsh National at Christmas; back in serious contention when next seen in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy; tongue tied first time) five weeks ago but ran out of steam behind three of these approaching the final fence and, although this race is a bit shorter, that performance leaves him with a bit to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

9th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 85y

Class 4

16:15 Taunton

Autonomous Cloud

11st 6lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Won three times over fences for Fergal O'Brien; beaten favourite on his stable debut at Doncaster (3m, good to soft) in February but has now dropped to a career-low mark.

4/1

7th

8

27th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 214y

Class 3

17:05 Doncaster

Autonomous Cloud

11st 4lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Soundly beaten/pulled up towards end of last year on final two runs for Fergal O'Brien; however, perhaps a change of scenery and first run in a veterans' chase will prompt a revival from this 10yo, who is on a reduced mark; interesting on yard debut, all the more so if strong in the betting.

13/2

1st

3

28th May 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 107y

Class 5

20:40 Cartmel

Autonomous Cloud

12st 0lb

J: Mr Harry O’Dwyer

T: Fergal O’Brien

Thorough stayer; seemingly on the downgrade now but ran well for a long way when eighth in last month's Aintree Foxhunters' and probably found the good ground too lively when below that form at Cheltenham (2m4f; first-time cheekpieces) four weeks ago; can make his presence felt here.

3/1

Form: 122123

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 3lb

8 yo Mare

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Rock solid this term, showing herself in a particularly favourable light with serious stamina tests in the mud for major handicaps at Warwick (won), Haydock (second) and Uttoxeter (third to Beauport and Mr Incredible) on last three outings; had a clear lead for most of the closing stages last time (4m2f, heavy) and another bold show would not surprise under this 2lb higher mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

6

29th Jan 2026

Heavy

3m 1f 30y

Class 3

15:33 Wincanton

My Silver Lining

10st 13lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

On a losing run but she was second in the Tommy Whittle at Haydock (3m1f, soft) and her bid for the Surrey National (3m5f, soft) ended early after a bad mistake; this is her sort of race and she's effective in the mud.

5/1

11

19th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 4f 178y

Class 3

13:50 Lingfield

My Silver Lining

11st 0lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

Not as good as she was but ended last year with some good efforts, most recently when second in Tommy Whittle at Haydock (3m1f, soft), and this move back up in trip is sure to suit.

10/1

4th

9

26th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 210y

Class 3

13:30 Fontwell

My Silver Lining

10st 13lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

Pulled up in three of her five runs last season but her third at Hereford (3m1f, good to soft) in December was a good effort and she finished fourth of 16 in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter last time; resumes off a dangerous mark and she's one to keep an eye on for in-form yard.

7/1

OUR TIP

Form: 4-113P

Last run: 38 days

W: 12st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 158

Form & Verdict
Acts on soft; a leading staying novice hurdler last term and the same as a novice chaser this season, although he did not show it with first-time cheekpieces at Cheltenham Festival last month (scoped dirty); tops the weights after his Graded events but a win today is not entirely ruled out, as it's long appeared that an outright test of stamina would suit him well.
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: 23U-2U

Last run: 7 days

W: 11st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
Placed in major handicaps on his three completions for this yard and the three non-completions weren't his fault, hampered when unseating at the Chair at Aintree last week (10-1); towards rear at the time having been very slow to stride following the standing start; that was four weeks after his Midlands National second (4m2f, heavy) which came after 336 days off; connections thought he'd improve fitness-wise after that run but now it remains to be seen how he's come out of last week's race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the 4m2f Midlands Grand National last March; that, however, was the last time he's completed and he's mostly been back to his old tricks since by refusing to race; last two "starts" were for new connections but he didn't start at all on the first of those and threw in the towel at a later point three weeks ago.

66/1

1

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the 4m2f Midlands Grand National last March; that, however, was the last time he's completed and he's mostly been back to his old tricks since by refusing to race; last two "starts" were for new connections but he didn't start at all on the first of those and threw in the towel at a later point three weeks ago.

66/1

1

22nd Mar 2025

Good

3m 2f 39y

Class 2

13:15 Kelso

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the Midlands Grand National last March; however, he can often be reluctant at the start and he refused to race on his stable debut at Wetherby in December; very risky.

12/1

Form: -17371 C

Last run: 13 days

W: 11st 3lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
2-3 over fences at Ayr and his fifth chase win came at Carlisle (3m, heavy) 13 days ago; missed this race last year because of good ground, so the furthest he's been is still 3m2f, over which he twice strode out well to win on soft at Kelso; has a career-high mark but the longer trip is interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

13th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 96y

Class 2

15:00 Kelso

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Bruce Lynn

T: N W Alexander

12yo who lacked fluency when back over fences and was soundly beaten at Haydock in December; however, prior to that he made a fairly encouraging return from an absence over hurdles at Ayr and he's a six-time winner at Kelso; could have a part to play now back here.

13/2

5th

1

1st Nov 2025

Soft

3m 0f 70y

Class 3

13:58 Ayr

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Dominic Hislop

T: N W Alexander

Likeable veteran whose ten wins include six at Kelso and three here; made a successful reappearance in 3m2f chase at Kelso (from Famous Bridge) last autumn; doesn't run often over hurdles these days but he has a lower mark and cannot be ruled out completely.

15/2

5th

1

1st Nov 2025

Soft

3m 0f 70y

Class 3

13:58 Ayr

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Dominic Hislop

T: N W Alexander

Likeable veteran whose ten wins include six at Kelso and three here; made a successful reappearance in 3m2f chase at Kelso (from Famous Bridge) last autumn; doesn't run often over hurdles these days but he has a lower mark and cannot be ruled out completely.

15/2

Form: F-52P1

Last run: 35 days

W: 11st 1lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Nearly always ridden by Jordan Nailor; barely went a yard in Warwick's Classic Chase in January but he was second at Sandown (3m4f, heavy) the time before and in top form to win the Midlands National from Mr Incredible at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy) five weeks ago; up 5lb today but clearly a force in these long-distance races on his day.
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: 11249- C

Last run: 371 days

W: 10st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Stays 3m and goes well on soft/heavy; the switch to chasing last term went swimmingly, including two impressive wins at this track, before heavy defeats in better races on his last two outings; should have brought potential to this second chase campaign but he's not raced for a year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Gold Cup Bailly

12st 0lb

J: J J Slevin

T: S R B Crawford

Showed that he retained spark when fourth of five at Ayr (3m, soft) in January, when he made a bad mistake and jumped to the right at that left-handed track; goes right-handed today; however, tailed off in Grade 2 novice hurdle since and best form has come on soft/heavy going; a visor goes on.

20/1

1

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Gold Cup Bailly

12st 0lb

J: J J Slevin

T: S R B Crawford

dwelt start, in rear, not fluent 1st, struggling 4 out

20/1

Form: 241123

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won regional Nationals over 3m4f/3m5f at Fakenham, Sedgefield and Fontwell, the last two in small fields in the mud last autumn; never better than on last two starts when placed in the Sussex National at Plumpton and the 4m1f Eider (third to Anglers Crag) at Newcastle, but to win this requires a fair bit better still.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

25th May 2026

Good

3m 5f 80y

Class 3

15:58 Cartmel

Tommie Beau

12st 0lb

J: Benjamin Macey

T: Seamus Mullins

No longer the force of old and inconsistent nowadays but he capitalised upon some significant help from the handicapper when winning Norfolk National at Fakenham (3m5f, good) three weeks ago and he is also very well suited by this track.

15/8

1st

3

4th May 2026

Good

3m 5f 24y

Class 3

16:38 Fakenham

Tommie Beau

11st 11lb

J: Benjamin Macey

T: Seamus Mullins

Gained three of his 14 wins here, including 2022 edition of this race, but has regressed and become inconsistent; didn't run badly in last month's Sussex National at Plumpton (3m4f, good; first-time cheekpieces) but younger rivals have much more appealing profiles.

14/1

6th

4

6th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 104y

Class 2

16:25 Plumpton

Tommie Beau

11st 2lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Seamus Mullins

He's won here three times and was second in this race in 2024 on his last Plumpton visit; on a reduced mark but this 11yo has struggled to get competitive on his last few starts and needs to turn things around in first-time cheekpieces.

25/1

Form: -FPU21

Last run: 40 days

W: 10st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Held up; first three attempts at 3m4f/3m5f did not work out but last month he had a fourth go at it and was produced late for a tidy win at Taunton (soft); back up 5lb near career-high mark but could have more to offer in long-distance chases.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Broken Halo

11st 4lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Had wind surgery (his second) since last run; scored over 3m4f at Taunton (soft) in March and was still going well (4l down, disputing third) when falling two out in this contest last year; shortlisted.

7/1

Form: P3-313

Last run: 39 days

W: 10st 5lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Upped to nearly 3m7f for the Devon National at Exeter (heavy) in February and made all to win by 60l; that's not the easiest form to pinpoint (he has a 15lb higher mark today) and he did not reproduce it when third to a runaway winner in the NH Chase at Cheltenham (3m6f, heavy; first-time cheekpieces) 18 days later, but this very lightly raced 8yo could have more to give.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Mr Vango

10st 12lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Usually goes well in the mud; last season's hat-trick culminated in the 4m2f Midlands National and he rallied to go very close against Twig in the 3m2f Becher over these fences on first outing this term; while there was so much to admire to that point, he's cracked with alarming speed in 3m and 4m1f races on his last two outings.

66/1

1

21st Feb 2026

Good To Soft

4m 1f 56y

Class 2

14:43 Newcastle

Mr Vango

12st 0lb

J: David Bass

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Hugely the class act in this field and last season's hat-trick culminated in the 4m2f Midlands National; rallied to go very close in the Becher at Aintree (3m2f) on first outing this season; he wasn't going almost immediately once headed (fairly early stage) last time, which is a nagging worry despite that race being over just 3m; soft or heavy ground is ideal but there's no doubting his strength in stamina and that factor is key.

7/1

1

31st Jan 2026

Soft

3m 0f 42y

Class 2

15:42 Sandown

Mr Vango

12st 0lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Needs soft/heavy ground; grand stayer who completed a notable hat-trick (3m1f-4m2f) last term, culminating in Midlands National win; went very close in the Becher Chase at Aintree (3m2f) in sole outing this season, showing further progress on the figures; the weather has interrupted plans since; respected, with a slog at the trip on the cards.

13/8

Form: 7-1111

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 4lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Had wind surgery last August and is 4-4 for his new yard since; first three of those were over about 3m-3m2f on good to soft but he coped admirably with a move up to 4m1f on heavy in the Eider at Newcastle last time, confidently ridden to challenge three out and to overcome an error two out by getting up close home; up another 8lb but remains capable of better and may well extend his winning sequence.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

21st Feb 2026

Good To Soft

4m 1f 56y

Class 2

14:43 Newcastle

Anglers Crag

10st 4lb

J: Danny McMenamin

T: Nicky Richards

The final leg of his four-timer for Brian Ellison two winters back was this race off 4lb lower than today; never fired on all cylinders last term but reappeared for new yard in November with a sparkling win, employing new tactics as he made all at Carlisle to come home 9l clear; back up 8lb, so needs to be back at his very best, but he's one for the shortlist.

5/1

5

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Anglers Crag

11st 5lb

J: Henry Brooke

T: Brian Ellison

Has had a patchy campaign and was pulled up in the Midland National last time; however, he showed some spark at Musselburgh (3m7f, good to soft) in February and is just 1lb higher than when winning the Eider at Newcastle (4m1f, heavy) last season; not ruled out now back down in trip/grade.

8/1

5

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Anglers Crag

11st 5lb

J: Henry Brooke

T: Brian Ellison

in rear, outpaced 5 out

8/1

Form: -U4251 D

Last run: 77 days

W: 10st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
7yo who's in his first season chasing; upped in trip and switched to front-running with a first-time visor in the Edinburgh National at Musselburgh 11 weeks ago and he took the field apart, moving 21l clear in the closing stages; that was over an extended 3m7f on good to soft, but he has been placed on soft; up 14lb today but that latest performance could hardly have been more authoritative.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

14th May 2026

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 4

14:33 Perth

Inis Oirr

11st 2lb

J: Gregor Walkingshaw

T: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore

Back to form a little out of the blue to take advantage of a reduced mark over C&D (good) under Gregor Walkinshaw three weeks ago; remains well treated on old form (won 2024 Edinburgh National off 11lb higher) but not sure to be in the same mood again based on his recent record.

7/2

1st

5

23rd Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 4

17:15 Perth

Inis Oirr

11st 6lb

J: Gregor Walkingshaw

T: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore

Both wins have been at Musselburgh, latest a 3m7f handicap chase in February 2024 (good to soft); struggled to win since, but is well handicapped.

20/1

9th

10

22nd Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 110y

Class 2

15:52 Carlisle

Inis Oirr

10st 8lb

J: Derek Fox

T: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore

Losing spell goes back to his success in the Edinburgh National two years ago and current mark reflects a decline in his form; not sure to repeat his autumn C&D effort (neck second).

20/1

Form: 931173

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Progressive last year, making all at Tramore (2m5f, soft) in August and Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) in October; returned to Cheltenham last month for the Kim Muir (3m2f, soft) and made most, finishing third of 22 but he was 18l behind the runner-up Git Maker, so needs to step up on that and it's the furthest he's been.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

11

6th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 0y

16:10 Cork

Whacker Clan

12st 0lb

J: Ms A M Connolly

T: Josh Halley

Very useful form for Henry de Bromhead earlier in his career, three chase wins and third in the Kim Muir in 2024; modest points form lately.

25/1

17th

8

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Whacker Clan

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

prominent, went second before 2nd, led after 3rd, not fluent and headed 7th, hampered by faller 5 out

10/1

22

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Whacker Clan

10st 2lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Progressive last year, making all at Tramore (2m5f, soft) in August and Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) in October; returned to Cheltenham last month for the Kim Muir (3m2f, soft) and made most, finishing third of 22 but he was 18l behind the runner-up Git Maker, so needs to step up on that and it's the furthest he's been.

12/1

Form: 4-1P12

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Won a maiden hurdle on sole start on soft; ran poorly on second outing this term but the other three yielded two wins and a good second; first-time visor for 4l win at Doncaster (good) in January and first-time blinkers when front-running second at Kempton (good to soft) five weeks ago; both were 3m and, although 2lb out of the handicap here, the move up in trip is interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

15th Apr 2026

Good

3m 1f 125y

Class 2

17:00 Haydock

Egbert

10st 9lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Christian Williams

C&D winner in December 2024 (heavy; won on good) and made it 2-2 here when beating three rivals over 3m4f (good to soft) on reappearance; the glaring concern is his nothing run at Exeter last time when in trouble a long way out.

15/2

2

22nd Mar 2026

Good

3m 6f 153y

Class 3

15:02 Exeter

Egbert

11st 11lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Christian Williams

Seen only once this season, winning four-runner Haydock chase (3m4f, good to soft) from the front on stable debut in December, but was nudged up only 2lb for that and should be fine on the quicker surface here; respected.

7/2

8

15th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 8y

Class 1

15:00 Uttoxeter

Egbert

11st 3lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Alan King

Won well over Haydock's extended 3m1f on heavy two runs back; has failed to complete in his two previous marathon chases and was on the retreat, though still in third, when crashing out at the final fence of the Eider (good to soft); can run well again but others might be better equipped to see this out stronger; new cheekpieces the headgear of choice today (effective in visor/blinkers).

20/1

Form: F-0PP3

Last run: 20 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
Won at Fairyhouse (3m5f, soft) for Gordon Elliott in December 2022; right out of form in his seven subsequent races for that trainer and sold for £5,000 this January; first run for new yard was much more positive but he needs to build seriously on that Ffos Las third and position 5lb out of the handicap does not help; 7lb claimer is recruited.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

27th May 2024

Good To Soft

3m 5f 80y

Class 3

15:30 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 6lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

led, not fluent and briefly headed 10th, pushed along before 16th

7/1

2

27th May 2024

Good To Soft

3m 5f 80y

Class 3

15:30 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 6lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

Won't fail through lack of stamina but was pulled up on final two starts for Gordon Elliott during the winter and has not yet built upon his fairly respectable stable debut in March; tailed off when fourth of five here on Saturday (3m1f, good to soft); needs a sudden revival.

7/1

4th

4

25th May 2024

Soft

3m 1f 107y

Class 3

17:40 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 3lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

led, headed 5th, not fluent 9th, lost second 11th, soon nudged along, lost third after 12th, lost ground quickly from 14th, tailed off from 3 out

11/2

Form: 923P-6

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

25

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Secret Reprieve

10st 2lb

J: James Turner

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.

66/1

25

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Secret Reprieve

10st 2lb

J: James Turner

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.

66/1

6th

8

9th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 0f 37y

Class 3

16:10 Sandown

Secret Reprieve

11st 9lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021, running respectably twice last winter but beaten some way out in the Midlands National when last seen in March; well handicapped but seems fragile and probably best watched after nearly a year off.

16/1

Form: 916126

Last run: 19 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
December's hurdle win saw him 5-4 favourite when returned to chasing (first time since 2022) off a lower mark for Grand National Trial at Punchestown (3m3f, heavy) in February and he came 16l second of 15; needs better than that but took a backward step when 26l sixth under Kieran Callaghan in the Irish National itself (3m5f, heavy) 19 days ago; 5lb out of the handicap.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

24th Nov 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 3

14:00 Uttoxeter

Wellhavewan

11st 12lb

J: Charlie Maggs

T: Rebecca Menzies

Listed hurdle winner last December for Willie Mullins; departed that yard for £11,000 and no form as yet for current stable (2m7f hurdle/3m5f chase); no real significance in another headgear switch.

25/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £731.10
Straight Forecast £350.59
Tricast £3142.17
Trifecta £9321.50

Selections

LAMBOURN:

Git Maker

RP RATINGS:

Mr Vango

Telegraph:

Mr Incredible

The Sun:

Macdermott

The Times:

Spanish Harlem

THE NORTH:

Inis Oirr

WEST COUNTRY:

Stay Away Fay

SPOTLIGHT:

Anglers Crag

D Express:

Ballygrifincottage

POSTDATA:

Elvis Mail

TOPSPEED:

Mr Vango

Daily Mirror:

Mr Vango

The Guardian:

Mr Incredible

Daily Mail:

Git Maker

The Star:

Git Maker

Daily Record:

Git Maker