April 15 / 17.15 Aintree

17.15

Good To Soft

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

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

Runners: 40 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

9/1 (Won)

  • Win: £9.00
  • Place: £3.20

Form: U1-541

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Never-nearer fourth to Le Milos at Newbury (3m2f); ran respectably over 3m5f at Warwick last term and loudly demands another go at a marathon distance, now that his strong finish from well off the pace has won him the 3m1f Ultima Handicap at Cheltenham for the second year in succession; due to go up 10lb, so he's the pick of the weights; has his own way of doing things and plotting his way through the pack will need luck, but he gave probably his most professional display last time (on soft) and brings plenty of positives.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 213y

17:25 Punchestown

Corach Rambler

11st 10lb

J: Derek Fox

T: Lucinda Russell

didn't always jump with fluency, held up in last, detached when pecked on landing and pushed along briefly 12th, reminders after 5 out

9/1

4

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 213y

17:25 Punchestown

Corach Rambler

11st 10lb

J: Derek Fox

T: Lucinda Russell

didn't always jump with fluency, held up in last, detached when pecked on landing and pushed along briefly 12th, reminders after 5 out

9/1

7

13th Apr 2024

Heavy

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Corach Rambler

11st 6lb

J: Derek Fox

T: Lucinda Russell

Sole run on heavy was a win on rules debut; tasted success at two Cheltenham Festivals, coming from well off the pace, before the even sweeter prize of this race last year when he was never far away and had zero alarms before some idling in front after grabbing total control at the final fence (much earlier than usual); last month's Cheltenham Gold Cup (soft) seemed to show the ceiling of his ability, when it looked exceedingly hard work for him from the final fence, but that was while finishing an excellent third with career-best form; 13lb higher than last year but still well in and should go well if the Gold Cup did not make him dig too deep.

7/1

16/1

  • Place: £5.80

Form: -636F2

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Probably no ground issues; should have been a top chasing prospect going into last season but jumping fences has not come naturally to him, for instance in the 2022 NH Chase at Cheltenham; had back surgery since, fell nevertheless on his penultimate start but the latest was more reassuring; when he's on song he stays on strongly like a prime candidate for long distances.
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

12/1

  • Place: £2.60

Form: 3-2131

Last run: 32 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
Has never finished out of the first three in his nine races over fences, including when third in the 3m5f Irish Grand National (yielding) last term and arriving on the scene in the nick of time to send the favourite backers home happy in last month's 3m6f NH Chase at Cheltenham (soft); this even greater stamina test has to make appeal.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

25th Nov 2023

Soft

2m 5f 127y

Class 2

13:50 Haydock

Gaillard Du Mesnil

11st 11lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

disputed lead, led clearly after 1st, headed and raced in second just after 8th, outpaced 4 out, no chance with winner when mistake 2 out, kept on run-in

11/8

3rd

13

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Gaillard Du Mesnil

11st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Has never finished out of the first three in his nine races over fences, including when third in the 3m5f Irish Grand National (yielding) last term and arriving on the scene in the nick of time to send the favourite backers home happy in last month's 3m6f NH Chase at Cheltenham (soft); this even greater stamina test has to make appeal.

12/1

1st

4

14th Mar 2023

Soft

3m 5f 201y

Class 1

17:30 Cheltenham

Gaillard Du Mesnil

11st 7lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Second-season novice; not that far off the best last term, staying on for third in 3m Grade 1 in the mud at this meeting before confirming his stamina when also taking third in the 3m5f Irish Grand National; won 3m Grade 1 novice at Leopardstown in December and 2m5f was against him on latest start; has the best form and presents a very strong case.

Evs

OUR TIP

11/1

  • Place: £3.40

Form: -P1134 CD

Last run: 29 days

W: 11st 11lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 166

Form & Verdict
To win this race last term as just a 7yo and a novice was seriously out of the ordinary and he's built on that with his form this season (now has 19lb higher mark); won over the conventional fences here in December and reverted to looking much more the out-and-out stayer in two runs at Cheltenham since, which meant he never got competitive when 15l fourth in the Gold Cup but keeps him as major contender for the National.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

28th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 7f 80y

14:00 Leopardstown

Noble Yeats

11st 10lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Emmet Mullins

midfield early, pressed leaders after 4th, lost position and dropped to rear when pushed along briefly after 6th, dropped to last and pushed along after 7th, reminders and struggling after 8th

13/2

6

28th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 7f 80y

14:00 Leopardstown

Noble Yeats

11st 10lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Emmet Mullins

midfield early, pressed leaders after 4th, lost position and dropped to rear when pushed along briefly after 6th, dropped to last and pushed along after 7th, reminders and struggling after 8th

13/2

19th

1

13th Apr 2024

Heavy

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Noble Yeats

11st 12lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Emmet Mullins

2022 Grand National winner and fourth in it (again on good to soft) last year when he was hard work from out the back and never got near the leaders; hurdling on last three starts, winning a Grade 2 but coming up well short when the cheekpieces (which had served him well hitherto) were restored at Cheltenham one month ago; just 1lb lower than last year but his strength of stamina will presumably be well served by a slog in the mud.

20/1

Form: 6-113F

Last run: 70 days

W: 11st 5lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 160

Form & Verdict
Opened this season with wins in two major 3m handicaps; sometimes jumps rather ponderously, including on the first circuit when good third in the Welsh National (soft) in which a blunder two out handed the upper hand to two rivals; fell two out at 33-1 in Irish Gold Cup latest, when disputing the lead so running a big race, but moving up the weights since is a negative to add to his fall.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

The Big Dog

11st 5lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Peter Fahey

Opened this season with wins in two major 3m handicaps; sometimes jumps rather ponderously, including on the first circuit when good third in the Welsh National (soft) in which a blunder two out handed the upper hand to two rivals; fell two out at 33-1 in Irish Gold Cup latest, when disputing the lead so running a big race, but moving up the weights since is a negative to add to his fall.

14/1

7

4th Feb 2023

Yielding To Soft

3m 0f 44y

15:05 Leopardstown

The Big Dog

11st 10lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Peter Fahey

prominent, not fluent 11th, pressed leaders 4 out, led narrowly 3 out, fell 2 out

25/1

3rd

1

27th Dec 2022

Good To Soft

3m 6f 130y

Class 1

14:50 Chepstow

The Big Dog

12st 0lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Peter Fahey

Blundered at the ninth in this last year and had a mishap with his tack, so was pulled up; 3m4f win at Punchestown (soft) that February had made him look tailor-made for this test and he's roared back better than ever this season with major 3m wins on soft when ridden prominently in the Munster National and the Troytown; slow over many of his fences last time but looks sure to have a big shout if he can stay near the pace.

6/1

Form: 353050

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
6lb out of the handicap; won at Galway (2m6f) in July 2021 and good fifth in the same race last summer; no striking claims even on that form, though, and he does not have any form beyond 3m1f (had one attempt at 3m4f); 150-1 when beaten 22l at Cheltenham (2m4f) last month.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

10th

6

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

midfield

12/1

Form: 7-33F2

Last run: 29 days

W: 10st 8lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Fell at a Cheltenham cross-country fence in January but some of his runs in France make very interesting viewing, including when staying on well over 3m3f and 3m6f, and so do his performances in the same 3m2f Down Royal race in March 2022 and 2023; big odds but a lurking strength in stamina can bring him to the fore.
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: 20-223

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
0-8 over fences but runner-up in five, including at the 2022 Cheltenham Festival and on first two starts this season; jumps well but two others saw the 3m6f out much better when he was a fair third to Gaillard Du Mesnil at Cheltenham (soft) this time round.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

8

20th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 91y

Class 5

17:16 Newbury

Mister Coffey

11st 12lb

J: Mr Daniel Williams

T: Nicky Henderson

A classy chaser who has famously gone 0-19 in this discipline, running numerous good races in smart company and finishing runner-up nine times; did run well for a long way in a veterans' chase at Cheltenham last month (3m2f, good to soft) and this might just be the day it happens for him.

11/10

5th

5

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 2

15:15 Newbury

Mister Coffey

11st 4lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

Let down by his jumping when returned to the cross-country course at Cheltenham last time; has lots of useful form otherwise and ties in with Eldorado Allen on reappearance running; well capable of being involved but is famously frustrating and still a maiden over fences (0-18).

13/2

Form: 64P03P

Last run: 31 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Second and fourth in last two editions of the Munster National on soft at Limerick in October were his best efforts over 3m; however, he can make jumping errors and Leopardstown on penultimate start showed that he's still fully effective over 2m1f, which is not overly suggestive of a Grand National victory; switches headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

6

15th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 90y

19:40 Kilbeggan

A Wave Of The Sea

11st 6lb

J: Charlie O’Dwyer

T: J P Broderick

A Grade 1-winning juvenile hurdler in his younger days, far from the force of old but still well capable; latest win came in handicap chase over C&D in September; down the field at Leopardstown and in veterans' event at Wexford last twice; dropped 3lb; 3-6 at this track and each-way player.

12/1

12th

9

10th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 100y

18:38 Wexford

A Wave Of The Sea

10st 7lb

J: Simon Torrens

T: J P Broderick

Fine servant won a Grade 1 juvenile hurdle and most recent successes came in 2m4f Kilbeggan handicap chases last year; penultimate Thurles fourth his best recent effort, stamina test probably beyond him in valuable 2m6f Leopardstown handicap latest; more suitable trip/ground here and drops in grade.

8/1

14th

19

1st Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

A Wave Of The Sea

10st 0lb

J: Charlie O’Dwyer

T: J P Broderick

Fine servant won a Grade 1 juvenile hurdle at this meeting in 2021; a record of 5-43 over fences and a decent effort at Thurles last time, but needs more from 1lb out of the handicap.

25/1

14/1

Form: 14-112 BF

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 11lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Improved to win at Bangor (3m, heavy) and Newbury (3m2f, good) on first two starts for new yard, the latter a top handicap in which he jumped soundly, led three out and kept finding more; 6lb higher today but ran encouragingly last month after his winter break and, while stamina cannot be absolutely guaranteed, he could be about to taste even greater success today.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 2

15:20 Haydock

Le Milos

11st 10lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Runner-up in the Stayers' Veterans' Final at Sandown (3m, good) in January two starts ago and he's not ruled out today; however, he's been inconsistent this season and was soundly beaten at Warwick (2m4f, heavy) in February; he may prefer a longer trip than this nowadays; fourth in this last year.

9/1

3rd

2

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Warwick

Le Milos

11st 9lb

J: Harry Atkins

T: Dan Skelton

Returned to form with creditable second in valuable veterans' final at Sandown (3m, good) last month and remains only 1lb higher than when winning this race readily by 6l a year ago (soft ground); major player, and his appeal will increase if the ground turns heavy.

9/4

Form: 135-11

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Started on the Flat but has been a rising force through his five campaigns over jumps; this term he's knuckled down admirably to prevail on the run-in in valuable 3m handicaps at Ascot and Kempton, both on good ground but he scored last season on soft; 4lb well-in compared to his recently revised mark; unraced beyond 3m1f but trainer says "this lad stays forever".
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

6

25th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

15:30 Sandown

Our Power

10st 13lb

J: Dylan Johnston

T: Sam Thomas

Withdrawn from Scottish National last week due to the heavy ground; 6lb lower than this time last year (when third in the Scottish National) as he's not fired on all cylinders this term, but excuses can be made; he's won two major 3m handicaps going right-handed (Ascot and Kempton) on good ground, back in the 2022-23 season admittedly but this 11yo may be dangerous to dismiss, including as first-time blinkers replace his usual cheekpieces.

20/1

Form: 9-0006

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
No ground worries but the same can't be said for his jumping, including as he unseated at the first in this last year (20-1) and errors held him back next time in the Irish National, a race in which he'd finished third in 2021; nothing to crow about this term and he's just 2lb lower than 12 months ago; tongue-tie (absent this season) returns.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

4th May 2026

Good

3m 5f 24y

Class 3

16:38 Fakenham

Enjoy Dallen

11st 4lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Won three times from the front (once over C&D) last season and lost out only narrowly in refitted cheekpieces at Plumpton (3m1f, good) a fortnight ago but this veteran is nothing like the force of old, and might find this race to competitive.

8/1

2nd

3

19th Apr 2026

Good

3m 1f 157y

Class 4

16:02 Plumpton

Enjoy Dallen

11st 12lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Veteran chaser who landed his third win of the season, over C&D (soft) in February when getting the better of Lumi Plugin; found the Sussex National back here 13 days ago a tad too competitive but cannot be dismissed here back in the right grade.

7/2

7th

11

6th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 104y

Class 2

16:25 Plumpton

Enjoy Dallen

10st 6lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Three wins in small fields this season (2m5f-3m5f, good/soft) and another good run when second of three at Sedgefield (3m2f, good) recently; however, there's a suspicion this 12yo will find today's race too competitive.

20/1

66/1

Form: U-44P5

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
3lb out of the handicap; has shaped at 3m-3m2f, including on soft and over these fences, as if serious stamina tests could suit him but he had a lot to do when producing what looked a tired unseat four out in this race last year; Welsh National and Haydock trial on last two starts (in cheekpieces) also failed to enhance his claims; blinkered first time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

1st Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 191y

Class 4

14:55 Market Rasen

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Henry Daly

Veteran who was a very useful staying chaser in his prime but has regressed and become inconsistent; left behind in home straight at Doncaster (3m, good) five weeks ago and needs headgear switch to perk him up here.

10/1

4th

6

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 21y

Class 3

15:15 Cheltenham

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Hugh Nugent

T: Henry Daly

Six-time chase winner over 3m; began season with respectable second behind revitalised opponent at Aintree (3m1f, good) in October and should be fine stamina-wise today but his last three runs were disappointing.

20/1

4th

6

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 21y

Class 3

15:15 Cheltenham

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Hugh Nugent

T: Henry Daly

Six-time chase winner over 3m; began season with respectable second behind revitalised opponent at Aintree (3m1f, good) in October and should be fine stamina-wise today but his last three runs were disappointing.

20/1

Form: 1U/014

Last run: 49 days

W: 11st 1lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 156

Form & Verdict
Produced a tired unseat at the final fence when 10-11 over 3m6f at Cheltenham in March 2020 on his only attempt at a long-distance chase; absent 1022 days before this season but short-head win from Dunboyne in the Thyestes at Gowran (3m1f, soft to heavy) showed he's as good as ever, a game effort too but he needs to bounce back from a lesser show one month later.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

10

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Carefully Selected

11st 1lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: W P Mullins

Produced a tired unseat at the final fence when 10-11 over 3m6f at Cheltenham in March 2020 on his only attempt at a long-distance chase; absent 1022 days before this season but short-head win from Dunboyne in the Thyestes at Gowran (3m1f, soft to heavy) showed he's as good as ever, a game effort too but he needs to bounce back from a lesser show one month later.

50/1

4th

2

25th Feb 2023

Yielding

3m 1f 110y

15:55 Fairyhouse

Carefully Selected

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Dual Grade 3 winner as a novice came back from a long absence this season, winning the Thyestes Chase on his second start back; is more effective on soft ground but handles this too; Townend prefers Kemboy but still a major player.

9/4

1st

3

26th Jan 2023

Soft

3m 1f 0y

14:50 Gowran Park

Carefully Selected

11st 8lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Smart bumper and hurdles performer won his first three races over fences in 2019/20; beaten in third when unseating at the last in the 2020 National Hunt Chase; considering prolonged absence, did well to hold his place until nearing the closing stages of the Paddy Power; arguably leading hope now for the champion trainer who has won this four times in the last nine years.

13/2

Form: 121-17

Last run: 21 days

W: 10st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Unraced on soft for nearly two years (has won on it); won eight of his last nine races over fences, all in small fields and latterly when upped to 3m for two handicaps at Perth last April/June; warmed up with a run over hurdles last month; should stay beyond 3m and still be capable of better but taking on this many rivals will be a very new experience.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

3

9th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 198y

Class 5

17:10 Carlisle

Minella Trump

11st 12lb

J: Mr Toby McCain-Mitchell

T: Donald McCain

prominent, pressed leader before 14th, led before 4 out, faced challenge when led narrowly before 2 out, kept on well

7/4

4th

7

7th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 0f 30y

Class 4

13:12 Bangor-on-Dee

Minella Trump

11st 12lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Donald McCain

Has won half of his 16 races over fences and should welcome this drop in grade after struggling last season in strong handicaps (his second was remote); has been absent for 12 months so some market confidence would be welcomed.

4/1

Form: 20005R

Last run: 31 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
2lb out of the handicap; negotiated these fences in three other races, twice soundly beaten but also 14l fourth in last year's Topham; showed plenty over the 3m6f Cheltenham cross-country last two starts and still led Delta Work and Galvin approaching two out last time but he had tired into a remote third when refusing at the last; soft ground was against him that day but both those runs cast doubt on his stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

11th Oct 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 131y

Class 2

15:50 Chepstow

Francky Du Berlais

11st 9lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

Seemingly on the downgrade now but enjoyed the chance to dominate small field from the front at Market Rasen (2m5f, good) a fortnight ago; contests a much deeper race here but recent 4lb rise ought to be manageable and he's evidently in good heart.

11/2

1st

2

28th Sep 2024

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 3

17:10 Market Rasen

Francky Du Berlais

11st 7lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

made all, went clear from 1st, reduced lead 3 out, kept on well, unchallenged

4/1

13th

9

24th Aug 2024

Good

2m 4f 180y

17:25 Killarney

Francky Du Berlais

10st 12lb

J: Mr J L Gleeson

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

midfield

11/2

Form: 20-241

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Failed to shine in the 2022 Kim Muir at Cheltenham but improved form on varied ground every time over fences in Ireland; close calls in two good 3m handicaps before easily making all when sights were lowered last month; scopey, long-striding sort who's a fascinating prospect for this distance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Aint That A Shame

11st 7lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: T Ellis

Thyestes winner of 2024 for Henry de Bromhead (off 144) went on to finish decent sixth in Grand National but long absent until faller at the last after never featuring on yard debut in 3m bet365 Premier Chase at Kelso in February; best form on heavy so obvious ground concerns.

25/1

38

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Aint That A Shame

10st 2lb

J: Jack Andrews

T: T Ellis

Reserve; 12yo who had his finest hour when winning the Thyestes at Gowran Park (3m1f, heavy) in January 2024; sixth in that year's Grand National and he's 8lb lower today, but that's having raced just once since (having left Henry de Bromhead for £40,000 last October) when taking a final-fence fall, well beaten at the time, in a Listed event six weeks ago.

100/1

Form: 12-241

Last run: 26 days

W: 11st 12lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 167

Form & Verdict
Came to this race in 2021 and 2022 on the back of a Graded win and does so again today at the age of 11; did sterling work from off the pace to be third and second in those last two Grand Nationals; 20l clear of the third when he chased home Noble Yeats last year and, despite today's 8lb higher mark, he has to be in each-way calculations.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

18

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 5f 37y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Any Second Now

10st 11lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: T M Walsh

Twice placed in the Grand National; most recent win was in a Grade 2 chase at Navan two seasons ago; took time to find his form last season before being produced in fighting shape to finish a gallant second to Intense Raffles in this; could peak again now after two prep runs but no horse of his age has won this since Overshadow in 1953.

20/1

2nd

18

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 5f 37y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Any Second Now

10st 11lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: T M Walsh

Twice placed in the Grand National; most recent win was in a Grade 2 chase at Navan two seasons ago; took time to find his form last season before being produced in fighting shape to finish a gallant second to Intense Raffles in this; could peak again now after two prep runs but no horse of his age has won this since Overshadow in 1953.

20/1

5th

4

9th Mar 2025

Soft

3m 0f 174y

16:45 Naas

Any Second Now

11st 9lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: T M Walsh

Twice placed in the Grand National; most recent win was in a Grade 2 chase at Navan two seasons ago; took time to find his form last season before being produced in fighting shape for the Irish Grand National in which he finished a gallant second; veteran should be better for last month's reappearance at Fairyhouse.

8/1

Form: -61462

Last run: 31 days

W: 11st 11lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 166

Form & Verdict
Won the 3m6f NH Chase at Cheltenham in 2021 and fourth there in the 2022 Gold Cup; diverted to the cross-country for this season's Festival (soft) and he was back near his best in second to Delta Work; while losing at level weights in that race is a stumbling block on form - he gives Delta Work 7lb today - the jumping and stamina suggest he could take well to this test.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Galvin

11st 7lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Grade 1 chase winner in his prime; not getting any younger and absent since close second in US Grade 1 hurdle in October but came second in non-handicap version of this race in 2023 (soft) and is now 1lb lower than when placed in last season's Grand National; drying ground will probably aid his cause; claims.

4/1

4th

17

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 0f 44y

16:40 Punchestown

Galvin

12st 0lb

T: Gordon Elliott

First reserve; Grade 1-winning chaser was 2nd in a valuable race in USA on last start; a player

4th

17

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 0f 44y

16:40 Punchestown

Galvin

12st 0lb

T: Gordon Elliott

First reserve; Grade 1-winning chaser was 2nd in a valuable race in USA on last start; a player

Form: -31336

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 161

Form & Verdict
Career-best form when third in two Leopardstown Grade 1s (one on soft) over 3m this winter and it was 2m4f when his form dipped at Cheltenham last month; jumps well; while he's worth this first go beyond 3m1f, stamina for this extreme trip is something of a guess and he needs to improve for it.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

3rd Jun 2024

Good

2m 3f 0y

16:20 Listowel

Fury Road

11st 2lb

J: Jordan Gainford

T: Gordon Elliott

in rear, detached from 3rd, pulled up with one circuit to go

20/1

4th

3

13th May 2024

Good

2m 4f 100y

18:40 Killarney

Fury Road

11st 8lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

in touch with leaders, pushed along briefly after 10th, struggling and weakened after 4 out

20/1

4th

3

13th May 2024

Good

2m 4f 100y

18:40 Killarney

Fury Road

11st 8lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

in touch with leaders, pushed along briefly after 10th, struggling and weakened after 4 out

20/1

Form: 2U4-13

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 5lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 160

Form & Verdict
Never-dangerous fourth in 3m Grade 1 novice race at Cheltenham in March 2022; jumped and ran better when ridden up with the pace for Grade 1 win at Punchestown that April; improved again at 2m4f in the mud on his only start this season, so he arrives with further potential, as well as with stamina all to prove beyond 3m.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 2

15:15 Newbury

Capodanno

12st 2lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Neil Mulholland

Capable of smart form for Willie Mullins and landed the Cotswold Chase two years ago; however, badly lacks recent match practice having been absent since finishing third in the Bobbyjo last February; remains with same owner; market may offer further guidance.

14/1

3rd

2

22nd Feb 2025

Soft

3m 1f 165y

15:25 Fairyhouse

Capodanno

11st 8lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: W P Mullins

took keen hold, in touch with leaders, mistake 4 out, pressed leaders 2 out, no extra before last

10/1

Form: 3-1361

Last run: 31 days

W: 11st 4lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 159

Form & Verdict
Won last two editions of the 3m6f Cheltenham cross-country in March, latest from Galvin at level weights (on soft; 2022 on heavy); last year's National (good to soft) did not pan out so smoothly for him from off the pace and it was not his best round of jumping, but he still challenged for the lead two out before finishing a tired, 22l third; 1lb lower today and cheekpieces (tried once last term, below form) are added; can't be ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

25th Jan 2025

Good

3m 1f 56y

Class 1

14:25 Cheltenham

Delta Work

11st 4lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Gordon Elliott

held up in rear, mistake 6th, outpaced when not fluent 5 out, some headway 2 out, went modest fourth run-in

20/1

4th

4

25th Jan 2025

Good

3m 1f 56y

Class 1

14:25 Cheltenham

Delta Work

11st 4lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Gordon Elliott

held up in rear, mistake 6th, outpaced when not fluent 5 out, some headway 2 out, went modest fourth run-in

20/1

Form: 1-35P5

Last run: 28 days

W: 11st 4lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 159

Form & Verdict
Showed he stays 3m2f on soft at Haydock last term but pulled up over 3m4f on heavy there next time; runaway winner at this meeting (3m1f, good to soft) last April but it wasn't over the National fences and he still has his career-high mark today, despite far more muted performances recently; has now had wind surgery.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 2

15:15 Newbury

Sam Brown

12st 0lb

J: Chad Bament

T: Anthony Honeyball

The oldest of these veterans, being a 14yo, and bare form this term leaves a question mark over whether he retains the useful ability that has been present for a long time; however, won this race off 2lb higher last year (soft) and has a good chance if back on song.

9/1

10th

1

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:00 Ascot

Sam Brown

12st 0lb

J: Chad Bament

T: Anthony Honeyball

Useful for a long time but has gained last three wins in veterans' events and, having turned 14 since November reappearance, can be opposed off current mark in this field.

20/1

Form: 242343

Last run: 28 days

W: 11st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 158

Form & Verdict
Often front-runner; has run well in all his races when at about 3m (snaffled up by The Big Dog in the Troytown on soft at Navan) but has never been beyond that; took very well to these fences when fourth over 2m5f in November, so looks well capable of a bold show for a long way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

5

11th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 7f 0y

19:37 Killarney

Lifetime Ambition

11st 11lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: P M J Doyle

Third when odds-on for this race 12 months ago; he'll run better this time if he can repeat his close fourth behind some class acts at Punchestown (3m, yielding).

2/1

4th

9

1st May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Lifetime Ambition

12st 0lb

J: Mr J L Scallan

T: P M J Doyle

7-14 in points and a five-time winner on the track; has often run well in races at this level, notably when second to Its On The line in this race in 2024 and third in the 2025 Aintree Foxhunter; no match for Panda Boy at Thurles in January; readily outpointed by Wonderwall at Dromahane 19 days ago

12/1

2nd

5

18th Jan 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 184y

15:55 Thurles

Lifetime Ambition

11st 11lb

J: Ms E C Costello

T: P M J Doyle

Thoroughly reliable performer on points, seven wins and five seconds from 13 starts; also a five-time winner under rules with smart form in this category; best of the Irish when third in last season's Aintree Foxhunters; beaten odds-on chance when third to Bartlemy Boy at Killarney in May; won readily at Turtulla nine weeks ago; rider doing well in points.

11/2

Form: 8-9441

Last run: 55 days

W: 11st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
Disputed the lead long way when 66l eighth in this race last year; usually ridden more conservatively this season and scored with authority over 3m4f at Punchestown on latest outing, jumping very well; that boosted hopes that he can last longer in this race at the second attempt but it also earned him a big career-high mark.
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: -P16U1

Last run: 29 days

W: 11st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
3m2f winner of non-handicap (soft) last month from Roi Mage; unseated at the first on penultimate start but jumped fluently through most of last year's National, in the first three or four until weakening from two out to finish 34l sixth; has same mark and connections hope he can be switched off better to boost chance of eking out his stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

4

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Longhouse Poet

12st 3lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Martin Brassil

Three chase wins include 2022 Thyestes and Down Royal conditions race last year (beating Roi Mage); yet to hit form this campaign, pulled up halfway after bad mistake in Thyestes; again failed to complete at Down Royal (Roi Mage second).

12/1

Form: 233154

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 13lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
Unraced beyond 3m, seen most often at about 2m; the three runs over 2m6f/3m among his last six starts have all been good, including second in the Galway Plate and third in the Kerry National, but this reliable 10yo would still have to show himself in a very new light for a prominent finish today.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Darasso

10st 13lb

J: L P Dempsey

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Unraced beyond 3m, seen most often at about 2m; the three runs over 2m6f/3m among his last six starts have all been good, including second in the Galway Plate and third in the Kerry National, but this reliable 10yo would still have to show himself in a very new light for a prominent finish today.

66/1

4th

3

18th Feb 2023

Soft

2m 4f 0y

15:27 Gowran Park

Darasso

11st 3lb

J: L P Dempsey

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Admirable sort equally effective over hurdles and fences, winning Red Mills Hurdle on this card back in 2019 and most recent of five chase wins came in 2m6f Thurles Listed contest in December; rare below-par effort when tough task at weights over inadequate trip in Grade 3 Limestone Lad Hurdle on latest but should run his race here.

7/2

5th

1

29th Jan 2023

Soft

1m 7f 151y

14:42 Naas

Darasso

11st 12lb

J: L P Dempsey

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

A dozen career wins for this admirably tough performer, including most recently in a Listed chase at Thurles at the beginning of last month; won a weaker version of this race last year and undoubtedly wants further, but he's not alone in that; looks sure to run his race.

9/2

Form: 29-27P

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Third in the 2021 NH Chase at Cheltenham over 3m6f but he cracked approaching two out in last year's National and was beaten 75l; also went to nothing in home straight for the Thyestes (3m1f) this January and no show at Cheltenham (2m4f) in March, so all in all he's had a fall from grace; usual headgear is removed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

13

2nd May 2026

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Escaria Ten

11st 7lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Hasn't won since Thurles beginners' chase win in 2020 for Gordon Elliott; some okay cross-country form in recent seasons, standout run this term when third in 3m6f Cheltenham handicap in January, tame enough Exeter effort latest when ground may have been on the quick side; others preferred.

14/1

4th

5

22nd Mar 2026

Good

3m 6f 153y

Class 3

15:02 Exeter

Escaria Ten

11st 4lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Returned to form with creditable third in cross-country chase at Cheltenham (3m5f, soft; refitted visor) in December and remains on a good mark but this veteran has become far too inconsistent to rely upon and may not be ideally suited by the forecast good ground here.

10/1

3rd

11

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

Escaria Ten

10st 4lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Looked out of sorts when pulled up here twice in the autumn (3m1f/2m4f; had wind op in between) and can't be supported with much confidence, but is now 10lb lower than when close fourth over C&D (soft) in December 2024; swaps blinkers for refitted visor.

20/1

Form: 3P-22P

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
No win since chase debut in 2020 and he's had his issues, but he almost wiped the slate clean with his first two runs this season when pipped at Haydock and rallying strongly for second in the 3m6f Welsh National; the latter performance would make him a huge player but those with longer memories will have doubts and he showed alarmingly little at Cheltenham last month; blinkers replace recent cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

The Big Breakaway

10st 2lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: Syd Hosie

Smart in his prime but has not shown a great deal this season and was tailed off in C&D contest won by Final Orders last month; effectively 1lb higher today; difficult to enthuse over.

66/1

3rd

2

9th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 5f 54y

Class 3

16:58 Warwick

The Big Breakaway

12st 0lb

J: Miss Anna Johnston

T: Anthony Charlton

Regular in marathon chases who bounced back to form when second of 14 in this headgear combination at Bangor (3m6f, soft; 40-1) last month; back up 5lb and despite some fine efforts he has gone 22 starts without a win since November 2020; others more solid.

11/2

2nd

1

7th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 5f 142y

Class 4

14:12 Bangor-on-Dee

The Big Breakaway

12st 0lb

J: Miss Anna Johnston

T: Anthony Charlton

Former Welsh National runner-up but rarely seems up for the challenge these days and was beaten a distance on his sole completion this season; new headgear provides some cause for optimism but far too risky to trust.

33/1

Form: 92F304

Last run: 66 days

W: 10st 8lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Initial promise as a novice (October 2021) has not been fulfilled; probably best run since when staying on in the 3m Kerry National last September only to fall at the last; unraced beyond that distance; changed hands and left Emmet Mullins before penultimate start; latest was a step back in the right direction but he has a lot to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Cape Gentleman

10st 8lb

J: Jody McGarvey

T: John Joseph Hanlon

Initial promise as a novice (October 2021) has not been fulfilled; probably best run since when staying on in the 3m Kerry National last September only to fall at the last; unraced beyond that distance; changed hands and left Emmet Mullins before penultimate start; latest was a step back in the right direction but he has a lot to prove.

100/1

4th

1

8th Feb 2023

Soft

2m 7f 124y

13:45 Fairyhouse

Cape Gentleman

12st 0lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: John Joseph Hanlon

Seven-time winner, including twice fences; scored on the Flat last summer; left Emmet Mullins after a hurdles run at Thurles in October; down the field in the Pertemps qualifier at Leopardstown on first start for this stable; form has become erratic but merits respect in this company.

11/2

Form: 0-9220

Last run: 55 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Acts on heavy; went mighty close to grabbing a top 3m handicap at Leopardstown (yielding) at Christmas in first-time blinkers (kept since); that and other notable performances appeared to shout stamina, so much so that despite having failed comprehensively to back up that impression in three handicaps over 3m4f/3m5f in the last year, he's not dismissed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12

28th Oct 2025

Soft

3m 1f 60y

Class 4

14:58 Ffos Las

Diol Ker

10st 12lb

J: Conor Ring

T: Evan Williams

Very useful in Ireland in his prime but 0-7 and generally very disappointing for Evan Williams since last autumn; returns from break on another career-low mark but considered only if lively in the betting.

33/1

12

28th Oct 2025

Soft

3m 1f 60y

Class 4

14:58 Ffos Las

Diol Ker

10st 12lb

J: Conor Ring

T: Evan Williams

Very useful in Ireland in his prime but 0-7 and generally very disappointing for Evan Williams since last autumn; returns from break on another career-low mark but considered only if lively in the betting.

33/1

3

14th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 4

15:22 Newton Abbot

Diol Ker

11st 11lb

J: Osian Radford

T: Evan Williams

High-class hurdler/chaser in his prime but has struggled for a long time now and although this is a welcome drop in grade he continues with something to prove; cheekpieces discarded.

14/1

Form: -0PP12

Last run: 26 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
No ground problems; good jumper; sixth in the Irish National one year ago showed he stays 3m5f and he's surged back to form for his last two outings; beaten by Any Second Now last time but much better off at the weights today; considered.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Velvet Elvis

10st 5lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: John C McConnell

Peak form includes a clear second to subsequent Grand National winner Nick Rockett in Thyestes Chase at Gowran (3m1f, soft to heavy) for Gavin Cromwell in January 2025; well handicapped on that effort (even though 1lb wrong) but has looked out of sorts since (four runs; last three for this stable) and it takes a leap of faith to support him on this cross-country debut; wore cheekpieces for four of last five races; visor is tried today.

66/1

11

22nd Jan 2026

Heavy

3m 1f 0y

15:30 Gowran Park

Velvet Elvis

11st 3lb

J: Dylan Kidd

T: John C McConnell

Clear second to subsequent Grand National winner Nick Rockett in this race 12 months ago; soundly beaten on final run for Gavin Cromwell, and pulled up in the Troytown on stable/seasonal debut at Navan; beaten a long way from home in last month's Tommy Whittle at Haydock.

28/1

Form: RP-B23

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
7yo who's had very few races and refused to participate meaningfully in two of them; has set off okay for new yard this term, albeit among the backmarkers; one of the theories connections have about him is that he much prefers big fields; second over 3m5f at Warwick (heavy) and third in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham suggested stamina reserves and he's basically a good jumper, albeit forfeiting his momentum and perhaps his enthusiasm when meeting the last fence wrong at Cheltenham; if he fancies it, he has the tools to run extremely well.
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: 1P9-3P

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 4lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
33-1 over 3m2f on good to soft when he took second at the 2021 Cheltenham Festival and won the big Newbury handicap that November; plenty of modest shows too; respectable third over 3m4f at Haydock on penultimate start but it looks as if others will finish much more strongly even if this is one of his good days.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

2

23rd Mar 2025

Good

3m 0f 110y

Class 2

16:30 Carlisle

Cloudy Glen

11st 5lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

led at steady pace, faced challenges from 13th, not fluent 14th, headed and lost second 3 out, soon lost third, lost touch from 2 out, tailed off

7/1

8th

3

1st Mar 2025

Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 2

13:20 Newbury

Cloudy Glen

11st 4lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

disputed lead

10/1

5th

3

9th Feb 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 54y

Class 2

15:00 Exeter

Cloudy Glen

11st 6lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Venetia Williams

Has an excellent reappearance record and won at Haydock (3m1f, soft) in December following a break; however, two lesser performances have followed from this 12yo and he needs to raise his game.

14/1

Form: 2U-370

Last run: 21 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Beaten a nose in 3m2f race (soft) over these fences in December 2021; yet to prove himself beyond that but he was in sixth when badly hampered four out in last year's 4m Scottish National; started this season okay, then had wind surgery before tailed off three weeks ago; cheekpieces first time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

31

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Hill Sixteen

10st 2lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Sandy Thomson

Beaten a nose in 3m2f race (soft) over these fences in December 2021; yet to prove himself beyond that but he was in sixth when badly hampered four out in last year's 4m Scottish National; started this season okay, then had wind surgery before tailed off three weeks ago; cheekpieces first time.

66/1

10th

2

25th Mar 2023

Good To Soft

3m 2f 39y

Class 2

15:35 Kelso

Hill Sixteen

11st 10lb

J: Craig Nichol

T: Sandy Thomson

held up in rear, awkward jump 3rd

5/1

7th

4

3rd Dec 2022

Good To Soft

3m 1f 188y

Class 1

14:05 Aintree

Hill Sixteen

11st 12lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Sandy Thomson

Nose second to Snow Leopardess in this race last year (soft); he's 9lb higher this time around but showed he can cope with this sort of mark when a solid third at Kelso (3m2f, good to soft) on his reappearance six weeks ago; could have a part to play now back here.

11/1

Form: 515683

Last run: 34 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
No ground worries; won at Galway (2m6f) last July but subsequent evidence, including two creditable shows in big 3m handicaps, suggests he is handicapped up to his best and can make mistakes; should stay beyond 3m but has so much further to go here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

12

25th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

15:30 Sandown

Gabbys Cross

10st 7lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Nick Scholfield

Ex-Irish 11yo (six races for current yard) who has not won since 2022 but went close with first-time cheekpieces (kept since) over 3m2f at Newbury in February; second of three at Ascot (3m) in another veterans' race next time was creditable in the end, after he'd been detached at one point; that helps to envisage him as a stayer but he jumped poorly on heavy in Scottish National (40-1, pulled up) last week and this race also looks tough.

66/1

14

18th Apr 2026

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Gabbys Cross

11st 0lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Nick Scholfield

Ex-Irish 11yo (five races for current yard) who has not won since July 2022 but nearly put that right in first-time cheekpieces (kept since) over 3m2f at Newbury in February, losing out in the final strides; second of three at Ascot (3m) three weeks ago was creditable in the end, after he'd been detached at one point, and that helps to envisage him as a stayer, but this race is so much tougher.

33/1

2nd

3

29th Mar 2026

Good

2m 7f 185y

Class 2

16:50 Ascot

Gabbys Cross

11st 8lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Nick Scholfield

Ex-Irish 11yo (four races for current yard) who has not won since July 2022 but so nearly put that right in first-time cheekpieces at Newbury four weeks ago when Copperhead wrested back the advantage in the final strides; back up 4lb and Sean Bowen takes over; clearly capable of a bold show.

9/4

Form: 102300

Last run: 109 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
All his three wins under rules were on good ground but his third of 17 in the Cork National (3m4f) came in the mud; major backward steps in his two races since (he's been off since Christmas) and the first of them was over these fences.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

33

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Recite A Prayer

10st 2lb

J: Jack Foley

T: W P Mullins

All his three wins under rules were on good ground but his third of 17 in the Cork National (3m4f) came in the mud; major backward steps in his two races since (he's been off since Christmas) and the first of them was over these fences.

66/1

20th

12

27th Dec 2022

Yielding

3m 0f 50y

15:00 Leopardstown

Recite A Prayer

11st 5lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

in touch with leaders on inner, lost position and pushed along before 3 out, soon weakened

18/1

12th

6

3rd Dec 2022

Good To Soft

3m 1f 188y

Class 1

14:05 Aintree

Recite A Prayer

11st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Won two handicap chases in the spring and has continued the good work in autumn, finishing second in the Kerry National (3m, good) then third to stablemate Captain Kangaroo in the Cork National (3m4f, soft to heavy); this 7yo could have more to offer for his top trainer and is respected.

12/1

Form: -62164

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Won on heavy last term and career-best form over 3m3f/3m2f on good ground at Cheltenham this season; front rank until the second last in the 4m Eider at Newcastle on latest start but fading thereafter points to a stamina weakness; tongue tied first time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

9

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

16:05 Aintree

Evas Oskar

12st 0lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

Running well in the 2023 Grand National when he unseated at the 21st; confined to only four runs in the meantime and he'll need to find plenty on his recent hunter chase exploits (narrowly beaten by Captain Tommy last time).

33/1

9

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

16:05 Aintree

Evas Oskar

12st 0lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

Running well in the 2023 Grand National when he unseated at the 21st; confined to only four runs in the meantime and he'll need to find plenty on his recent hunter chase exploits (narrowly beaten by Captain Tommy last time).

33/1

2nd

3

5th Mar 2025

Good

3m 1f 54y

Class 5

17:00 Catterick

Evas Oskar

12st 2lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

prominent, went second 5th, pushed along after 5 out, outpaced and lost second 3 out, soon ridden, rallied and went second again last, stayed on and challenging towards finish, just held

7/4

Form: 6R1P24

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
2lb out of the handicap; refused to race once last November and soon dropped himself out once in December; on the other hand he also had a 10l win this winter, lost the Thyestes by a short head (to Carefully Selected) and also ran creditably at Cheltenham, all in the mud, but Mr Incredible finished more strongly in the latter; blinkers replace usual cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

25th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Cheltenham

Dunboyne

10st 13lb

J: James Smith

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Knows what these big-field handicaps are all about and it was a cracking run to be fourth in the Irish National in April last time considering he carried an 8lb penalty for winning the Ulster National; that Fairyhouse defeat was his first for this yard; entitled to run well.

16/1

4th

24

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 5f 37y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Dunboyne

10st 7lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Beaten a short head in 2023 Thyestes; started last season brightly with Troytown fourth but pulled up in three big handicaps afterwards; surprise winner on debut for new yard in 2m4f Navan handicap hurdle early last month; maintained his revival with victory over Final Order in the 3m5f Ulster National; 8lb penalty makes this difficult.

25/1

4th

24

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 5f 37y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Dunboyne

10st 7lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Beaten a short head in 2023 Thyestes; started last season brightly with Troytown fourth but pulled up in three big handicaps afterwards; surprise winner on debut for new yard in 2m4f Navan handicap hurdle early last month; maintained his revival with victory over Final Order in the 3m5f Ulster National; 8lb penalty makes this difficult.

25/1

Form: -9231P

Last run: 31 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
3lb out of the handicap; a battler whose proficiency over the 3m6f Cheltenham cross-country course is a notable plus, but he failed to show it there when encountering soft (latest start) or heavy ground, so his chance could be scuppered if the rain has arrived in large quantities; place chance if it hasn't.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

7th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 4

15:50 Newton Abbot

Back On The Lash

11st 8lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Martin Keighley

in touch with leaders, outpaced and dropped to rear 10th, lost touch 13th, pulled up before 14th

8/1

3

7th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 4

15:50 Newton Abbot

Back On The Lash

11st 8lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Martin Keighley

Very inconsistent in recent years but proved he retains ability when commendable third from out of the weights in cross-country chase at Cheltenham (3m5f, good) in November, and his run in a conventional chase there (3m4f, good) three weeks ago was a fair bit better than eventual 46l defeat might suggest; in calmer waters here and not discounted.

8/1

7th

10

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 21y

Class 3

15:15 Cheltenham

Back On The Lash

11st 8lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Martin Keighley

Proved he retains ability when commendable third from out of the weights in cross-country chase here (3m5f, good) in November but his subsequent form in orthodox handicap chases is not compelling.

12/1

Non-runners

Escaria Ten

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £219.00
Straight Forecast £166.25
Tricast £1699.84
Trifecta £2269.80

Selections

RP Ratings:

Corach Rambler

The Times:

Vanillier

TOPSPEED:

The Big Breakaway

The Star:

Mr Incredible

D Express:

Velvet Elvis

Daily Mirror:

Gabbys Cross

LAMBOURN:

Mister Coffey

Daily Mail:

Le Milos

Daily Record:

Galvin

THE NORTH:

Hill Sixteen

POSTDATA:

Delta Work

SPOTLIGHT:

Roi Mage

Telegraph:

Corach Rambler

The Guardian:

Vanillier

WEST COUNTRY:

The Big Breakaway