We rung up Nina Carberry ahead of her sixth Grand National appearance
2:25 Novice’s Hurdle
Obviously you have to look at Yorkhill for this one. 5 races, 5 wins and the last one at Cheltenham was very comfortable. He should continue the form and repeat the performance from a couple of weeks ago.
3:00 Novice’s Chase
It’s the same story in this one. Paul Townend is on Douvan for Willie Mullins. He had a quiet enough day yesterday did Paul, but on a horse with the quality of Douvan it should be a win.
3:40 Stayer’s Hurdle
Thistlecrack is being ridden by his favourite jockey in Tom Scudamore. Five wins from his last six races including one at Aintree last year. As we saw yesterday with Ruby, anything could happen. Prince of Scars could run a good race behind Thistlecrack. But I’d be surprised if any of the favourites in the first three didn’t win.
4:20 Handicap Chase
This is my first ride of the day aboard Knock House. We came fourth on St Patrick’s Day at Cheltenham. The rain probably wouldn’t have helped then and we feel that there’s a bit more in him. He’s a nice weight, and has been running well in training. Band of Blood is in around 10 stone, he was fourth in the Irish National last year and he’ll be hard to beat at that weight.
5:15 Grand National
It was bittersweet news yesterday when I heard Ruby had broke his wrist. Obviously it’s nice to get a ride in the Grand National, but so unfortunate for Ruby. I’m gonna grab it with both hands and hopefully we get a good spin. Sir De Champs is such a classy horse for 10 years old. He won first time out in Thurles at the beginning of the season. He’s definitely got the staying if he gets around.
Many Clouds didn’t put a foot wrong last year. He seems to be a wizard around the course. You’ve got Red Rum’s record and a possible three in a row for Leighton Aspell too. The Last Samuri will enjoy this race as well. He stays very well, isn’t too big and if he can get around then he’ll be very tough to beat. The Druid’s Nephew, Gilgamboa and Rule the World are definitley ones to keep an eye on.
- Paddy Power is paying out for five places in the National