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2015 Grand National

Brian Hughes on Ely Briwn if Baileys c doesn't get in. Jonny Burke If Baileys does.
 
THE CRABBIE'S GRAND NATIONAL FESTIVAL, AINTREE

RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

GRAND OPENING DAY, THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2015


The 2015 Crabbie's Grand National - the provisional field of 40 runners with provisional jockey bookings​
Grade 3, ??1,000,000 Total Prize Fund. 4.15pm, Aintree, Saturday, April 11, 2015. Four miles, three and a half furlongs. For seven-year-olds and upwards which, up to and including March 23, have been placed first, second, third or fourth in a chase of three miles or more and which are allotted a rating of 120 or more by the BHA Head of Handicapping following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including February 15. Horses which are not qualified for a rating in Great Britain or Ireland at closing may also be entered. Such horses may be eligible for a weight providing the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse's racecourse performances up to and including February 15 would merit a minimum rating of 120. To qualify, horses must have run at least three times in chases run under the Rules of Racing of the same Recognised Racing Authority up to and including February 15. At the Handicapper's discretion, such horses may be allocated a rating. The decision of the BHA Head of Handicapping shall be final. No penalties after publication of the weights. Entries closed February 3, entries revealed January 4 (98 entries - 1 subsequently scratched, 1 not qualified). Weights revealed Tuesday, February 17. First scratchings' deadline March 3 (87 remained). Second scratchings' deadline March 24 (74 remained). Five-day confirmation stage April 6 (65 remained, one subsequently not qualified Alpha Victor) Final declaration stage 10.00am, April 9. MAXIMUM 40 RUNNERS plus four reserves
NB: THE FOUR RESERVES WILL BE KNOWN LATER THIS MORNING​
Horse Age Wgt
1) LORD WINDERMERE (IRE) 9 11-10 Jim Culloty IRE/Robbie McNamara
2) MANY CLOUDS (IRE) 8 11-09 Oliver Sherwood/Leighton Aspell
3) UNIONISTE (FR) 7 11-06 Paul Nicholls/Noel Fehily
4) ROCKY CREEK (IRE) 9 11-03 Paul Nicholls/Sam Twiston-Davies
5) FIRST LIEUTENANT (IRE) 10 11-03 Mouse Morris IRE/Miss Nina Carberry
6) BALTHAZAR KING (IRE) 11 11-02 Philip Hobbs/Richard Johnson
7) SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR (IRE) 8 11-02 Jonjo O'Neill/A P McCoy
8) PINEAU DE RE (FR) 12 11-00 Dr Richard Newland/Daryl Jacob
9) BALLYCASEY (IRE) 8 10-13 Willie Mullins IRE/Ruby Walsh
10) SPRING HEELED (IRE) 8 10-12 Jim Culloty IRE/Nick Scholfield
11) REBEL REBELLION (IRE) 10 10-12 Paul Nicholls/Ryan Mahon
12) DOLATULO (FR) 8 10-11 Warren Greatrex/Dougie Costello
13) MON PARRAIN (FR) 9 10-11 Paul Nicholls/Sean Bowen
14) CARLITO BRIGANTE (IRE) 9 10-10 Karen McLintock/Brian Harding
15) NIGHT IN MILAN (IRE) 9 10-09 Keith Reveley/James Reveley
16) RUBI LIGHT (FR) 10 10-09 Robert Hennessy IRE/Andrew Lynch
17) THE DRUIDS NEPHEW (IRE) 8 10-09 Neil Mulholland/Aidan Coleman
18) CAUSE OF CAUSES (USA) 7 10-09 Gordon Elliott IRE/Paul Carberry
19) GODSMEJUDGE (IRE) 9 10-08 Alan King/Wayne Hutchinson
20) AL CO (FR) 10 10-08 Peter Bowen/Denis O'Regan
21) MONBEG DUDE (IRE) 10 10-07 Michael Scudamore/Liam Treadwell?
22) CORRIN WOOD (IRE) 8 10-07 Donald McCain/David Casey
23) THE RAINBOW HUNTER 11 10-07 Kim Bailey/David Bass
24) SAINT ARE (FR) 9 10-06 Tom George/Paddy Brennan
25) ACROSS THE BAY (IRE) 11 10-06 Donald McCain/Henry Brooke
26) TRANQUIL SEA (IRE) 13 10-05 Warren Greatrex/Gavin Sheehan
27) OSCAR TIME (IRE) 14 10-05 Robert Waley-Cohen/Mr Sam Waley-Cohen
28) BOB FORD (IRE) 8 10-04 Rebecca Curtis/Paul Townend
29) SUPER DUTY (IRE) 9 10-04 Ian Williams/Will Kennedy
30) WYCK HILL (IRE) 11 10-04 David Bridgwater/Tom Cannon?
31) GAS LINE BOY (IRE) 9 10-04 Philip Hobbs/James Best
32) CHANCE DU ROY (FR) 11 10-04 Philip Hobbs/Tom O'Brien
33) PORTRAIT KING (IRE) 10 10-03 Maurice Phelan IRE/Davy Condon
34) OWEGA STAR (IRE) 8 10-03 Peter Fahey IRE/Robbie Power
35) RIVER CHOICE (FR) 12 10-03 Richard Chotard FR/David Cottin
36) COURT BY SURPRISE (IRE) 10 10-03 Emma Lavelle/Richie McLernon
37) ALVARADO (IRE) 10 10-03
38) SOLL 10 10-02 David Pipe/Tom Scudamore
39) ELY BROWN (IRE) 10 10-02 Charlie Longsdon/Brian Hughes
40)
 ROYALE KNIGHT 9 10-02 Dr Richard Newland/Brendan Powell?

<tbody>
</tbody>
40 runners 6 Irish-trained
1 French-trained
 
I am coming around to First Lieutenant. Nina had a nice confidence booster today. Mouses horses ran well at Fairyhouse and well below his max rating. Weight is a bit hight but like MrMcGokdrick I think good ground levels it out. Neptune Collonges got away with it and has a similar earlier career profile,
 
Saint Are is a better age for this now - has a nice weight and bits of previous Aintree form.
 
I think I've just about finalised my 'squad', they are :

Unioniste 66/1
Godsmejudge 33/1
First Lieutenant 40/1
Al Co 33/1
Cause of Causes 20/1

My biggest winner is Unioniste but my strongest fancy is CoC. If I can 33/1 on Al Co I'll back him again as I can see him loving these conditions.

I love this race but hardly ever have the winner, Silver Birch being my last!
 
No change to field. Reserves all stood down.

I have been drumming on about this but three pieces of advice for punters

1. If you want to get free bets - open your accounts and place the bets now - the offers will disappear

http://www.fatjockey.com/forum/showthread.php?5420-Grand-National-2015-Free-Bets

2. Take prices now and look out for bookies with BOG. The Grand National SP is a joke and will be significantly less than prices now available.

3. If you havent got a bet365 account get one. They are our top rated bookie and have a very notable national money back offer.

Direct Link to Bet365

Our Bet365 review.
 
McCoy has no ride in the bumper. So could be finished tomorrow after the National.
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aintree?src=hash">#Aintree</a>: Carlito Brigante out of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GrandNational?src=hash">#GrandNational</a> (lame); too late for reserves so 39 runners</p>— Cornelius Lysaght (@CorneliusRacing) <a href="https://twitter.com/CorneliusRacing/status/586477004377194496">April 10, 2015</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 

Michael Owen and some randomers from Bet Victor with National tips. Saint Are FWIW.

Bet Victor are paying 6 places on National

<!-- Affiliate Code Do NOT Modify--><a href="http://banners.victor.com/processing/clickthrgh.asp?btag=a_29648b_7631&aid=willie" ><img src="http://banners.victor.com/processing/impressions.asp?btag=a_29648b_7631&aid=willie" style="border:none;width:600px;height:120px;" border=""></a><!-- End affiliate Code-->
 
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Old Vic said:

Michael Owen and some randomers from Bet Victor with National tips

Bet Victor are paying 6 places on National

<!-- Affiliate Code Do NOT Modify--><a href="http://banners.victor.com/processing/clickthrgh.asp?btag=a_29648b_7631&aid=willie" ><img src="http://banners.victor.com/processing/impressions.asp?btag=a_29648b_7631&aid=willie" style="border:none;width:600px;height:120px;" border=""></a><!-- End affiliate Code-->
Click to expand...


Isn't this video for last year?
 
Robbie McNamara gone to hospital after his fall in the opener at Wexford. Him riding Lord Windermere looks in some doubt at the very least.

also

Denis O'Regan will replace Wayne Hutchinson on Ordo Ab Chao in 4.40pm at Aintree so waiting update on that situation too.


Update:
jockey Wayne Hutchinson expected to be ok to take mount on Godsmejudge in GN despite fall & stood down today (3-25)
 
Last edited:
Any update on Robbie Mac ?
 
Katie or Johnny if a spare ?
 
I'll throw in a good word for Owega Star. I spoke to Peter (Fahey) last night and he "has never had the horse so well. his counts are the best they have ever been and he travelled over really well" He seems very excited and was in great form even when expressing his bemusement at the 100/1 price being quoted by some bookies - he was in rare form and on somewhat of a rant and I noticed my own language got worse the more I empathized with him. He has a point though: he is a crazy price, will love the ground, is a great jumper and just needs the requisite luck in running. Good chance of a top 6 finish and who knows?
 
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BOF - thanks for that.

I hope Robbie mc is Ok. A fairly bad injury from noises on Twitter tonight.
 
From the official racecard aka Weatherbys

1 Lord Windermere (IRE) (29J)
9 b g Oscar (IRE) - Satellite Dancer (IRE) (Satco (FR))
61-373P Dr R Lambe
Visor

11-10
161

33/1
R P McNamara
J H Culloty

Winner of three hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to soft - heavy. Pulled up 2 out when 20-1 in the Group 1 Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 2f (soft) in a Grade 1 chase won by Coneygree last month on his latest outing.

2 Many Clouds (IRE) (29J)
8 br g Cloudings (IRE) - Bobbing Back (IRE) (Bob Back (USA))
B4-1116 Mr Trevor Hemmings

11-9
160

20/1
L P Aspell
O Sherwood

Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Well beaten at 7-1 when sixth of 16 on his latest outing in a Grade 1 chase in the Group 1 Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 2f (soft) last month. Has won 3 times this season.

3 Unioniste (FR) (63J)
7 gr g Dom Alco (FR) - Gleep Will (FR) (Laniste)
838-613 Mr J Hales
Cheek pieces

11-6
157

16/1
N D Fehily
P F Nicholls

Winner of a hurdle race and six chases from 2m 1f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to soft - heavy. Third of 6 behind Coneygree beaten 11l at 9-2 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 Denman Chase at Newbury over 3m (soft) in February.

4 Rocky Creek (IRE) (49J)
9 b g Dr Massini (IRE) - Kissantell (IRE) (Broken Hearted)
225-2P1 The Johnson & Stewart Families

11-3
154

15/2
Sam Twiston-Davies
P F Nicholls

Winner of a hurdle race, four chases and a point-to-point at 3m on good to soft and soft ground. A winner at 8-1 in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 BetBright Chase at Kempton over 3m (soft) on his latest outing in February, beating Le Reve by 6l.

5 First Lieutenant (IRE) (23J)
10 ch g Presenting - Fourstargale (IRE) (Fourstars Allstar (USA))
4-24683 Gigginstown House Stud
Tongue strap, Cheek pieces

11-3
154

20/1
Ms N Carberry
M F Morris

Has won three hurdle races, a NH flat race, three chases and a point-to-point from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Third of 4 behind Rolly Baby beaten 5l at 9-10fav on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Thurles over 3m (yielding - soft) last month.

6 Balthazar King (IRE) (148J)
11 b g King's Theatre (IRE) - Afdala (IRE) (Hernando (FR))
112-F11 The Brushmakers

11-2
153

8/1
R Johnson
P J Hobbs

Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and 13 chases from 2m 2f to 3m 7f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft. Won on his latest outing in a chase when 4-7fav at Cheltenham over 3m 7f (good) in November last year, beating Uncle Junior by 1 1/2l. Has also won at Craon this season.

7 Shutthefrontdoor (IRE) (152J)
8 b g Accordion - Hurricane Girl (IRE) (Strong Gale)
12461-1 Mr John P McManus
Tongue strap, Cheek pieces

11-2
153

5/1
A P McCoy
Jonjo O'Neill

Has won three hurdle races, three NH flat races and three chases from 2m to 3m 5f on ground varying from good to heavy. A winner at 2-1 in a chase at Carlisle over 3m (soft) on his latest outing in November last year, beating Vintage Star by 8l.

8 Pineau De Re (FR) (1284F, 30J)
12 b g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Elfe Du Perche (FR) (Abdonski (FR))
31-0P80 Mr J A Provan

11-0
151

20/1
D A Jacob
Dr R D P Newland

Winner of two hurdle races, a NH flat race and four chases from 2m to 4m 3f on ground varying from good to soft - heavy. Beaten 20l behind Call The Cops at 25-1 when 11th of 23 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 3m (good) last month.

9 Ballycasey (IRE) (30J)
8 gr g Presenting - Pink Mist (IRE) (Montelimar (USA))
F2-173P Mrs S Ricci

10-13
150

20/1
R Walsh
W P Mullins

Winner of two hurdle races, a NH flat race and three chases from 2m 1f to 2m 6f on ground varying from good - yielding to soft - heavy. Pulled up 3 out when 22-1 in the Group 1 Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham over 2m 5f (good) in a Grade 1 chase won by Uxizandre last month on his latest outing.

10 Spring Heeled (IRE) (49J)
8 b g Old Vic - Central Arch (Dilum (USA))
8015-44 Dr R Lambe
Cheek pieces

10-12
149

16/1
Nick Scholfield
J H Culloty

He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m to 3m 1f on good and heavy ground. Finished 19l behind Roi Du Mee when fourth of 5 at 7-2 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 At The Races Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse over 3m 1f (soft) in February.

11 Rebel Rebellion (IRE) (21J)
10 b g Lord Americo - Tourmaline Girl (IRE) (Toulon)
454121 Woodhouse, Sutton & Dobson
Blinkers, Tongue strap

10-12
149

33/1
Ryan Mahon
P F Nicholls

Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race, five chases and a point-to-point from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. A winner at 7-1 in a chase at Newbury over 2m 4f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Pepite Rose by 1l. Has also won at Ascot this season.

12 Dolatulo (FR) (1875F, 30J)
8 ch g Le Fou (IRE) - La Perspective (FR) (Beyssac (FR))
028180 Chasemore Farm
Tongue strap, Cheek pieces

10-11
148

33/1
D C Costello
W Greatrex

Has won three hurdle races, a NH flat race and four chases from 1m 7f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to soft. Well beaten at 66-1 behind Call The Cops when 19th of 23 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 3m (good) last month.

13 Mon Parrain (FR) (42J)
9 b g Trempolino (USA) - Kadaina (FR) (Kadalko (FR))
81-P015 Mr and Mrs J D Cotton
Blinkers, Tongue strap

10-11
148

33/1
Sean Bowen
P F Nicholls

Has won two hurdle races and six chases from 2m to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 8-1 behind Wayward Prince when fifth of 12 on his latest outing in a chase at Doncaster over 3m 2f (good) in February.

14 Carlito Brigante (IRE) (785F, 42J)
9 b g Haafhd - Desert Magic (IRE) (Green Desert (USA))
1-32213 06 Zoo Ltd

10-10
147


Non Runner
Karen McLintock

Has won five hurdle races and four chases from 2m to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to yielding. Third of 6 behind Runswick Royal beaten 18l at 9-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Kelso over 2m 7f (good to soft) in February.

15 Night In Milan (IRE) (42J)
9 b g Milan - Chione (IRE) (Mandalus)
1-40233 Mr Richard Collins
Blinkers

10-9
146

20/1
J Reveley
K G Reveley

Winner of three hurdle races and four chases from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to heavy. Third of 12 behind Wayward Prince beaten 11l at 5-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Doncaster over 3m 2f (good) in February.

16 Rubi Light (FR) (25J)
10 b g Network (GER) - Genny Lights (FR) (Lights Out (FR))
545211 Mr W Hennessy
Tongue strap

10-9
146

33/1
A E Lynch
R Hennessy

Has won a hurdle race and eight chases from 2m to 2m 4f on ground varying from soft to soft - heavy. A winner at 6-1 in a chase at Wexford over 2m 3f (soft) on his latest outing last month, beating He'llberemembered by 3/4l.

17 The Druids Nephew (IRE) (32J)
8 b g King's Theatre (IRE) - Gifted (Shareef Dancer (USA))
P-12751 The Stonehenge Druids
Cheek pieces

10-9
146

10/1
Aidan Coleman
N P Mulholland

Winner of a hurdle race, three chases and a point-to-point from 2m 5f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to soft. A winner at 8-1 in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 1f (good to soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Grand Jesture by 4l. Has also won at Huntingdon this season.

18 Cause Of Causes (USA) (1266F, 32J)
7 b g Dynaformer (USA) - Angel In My Heart (FR) (Rainbow Quest (USA))
220-751 Mr John P McManus
Tongue strap, Cheek pieces

10-9
146

14/1
P Carberry
G Elliott

Winner of five hurdle races and a chase from 2m to 4m on ground varying from good to heavy. A winner at 8-1 in a chase at Cheltenham over 4m (good to soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Broadway Buffalo by 1 1/2l.

19 Godsmejudge (IRE) (21J)
9 b g Witness Box (USA) - Eliza Everett (IRE) (Meneval (USA))
P23-P50 Favourites Racing Ltd

10-8
145

16/1
W Hutchinson
A King

Winner of two hurdle races, three chases and a point-to-point from 3m to 4m on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 20-1 when last of 11 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Bangor over 3m (good to soft) last month.

20 Al Co (FR) (21J)
10 ch g Dom Alco (FR) - Carama (FR) (Tip Moss (FR))
01-0P33 Mr F Lloyd

10-8
145

20/1
D F O'Regan
P Bowen

Winner of three hurdle races and four chases from 2m 1f to 4m on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Third of 11 behind Binge Drinker beaten 13l at 10-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Bangor over 3m (good to soft) last month.

21 Monbeg Dude (IRE) (32J)
10 b g Witness Box (USA) - Ten Dollar Bill (IRE) (Accordion)
7-24430 Oydunow

10-7
144

25/1
L Treadwell
M Scudamore

Winner of four chases and a point-to-point from 3m to 3m 5f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 20-1 behind The Druids Nephew when 14th of 24 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 1f (good to soft) last month.

22 Corrin Wood (IRE) (84J)
8 gr g Garuda (IRE) - Allstar Rose (IRE) (Fourstars Allstar (USA))
110-33P Dermot Hanafin Robert Rose Ian Whitfie

10-7
144

50/1
D J Casey
D McCain Jnr

Winner of a hurdle race, three chases and a point-to-point from 2m 3f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy. Pulled up 4 out when 5-1fav in the Group 2 Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock over 3m 1f (heavy) in a Grade 2 chase won by Samstown in January on his latest outing.

23 The Rainbow Hunter (GB) (49J)
11 b g Rainbow High - Sobranie (High Top)
P/261U-P May We Never Be Found Out Partnership

10-7
144

33/1
D Bass
K C Bailey

Winner of a hurdle race, four chases and two point-to-points from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Pulled up 5 out when 33-1 in the Group 3 BetBright Chase at Kempton over 3m (soft) in a Grade 3 chase won by Rocky Creek in February on his latest outing.

24 Saint Are (FR) (61J)
9 b g Network (GER) - Fortanea (FR) (Video Rock (FR))
PF-3331 Mr D W Fox
Tongue strap, Cheek pieces

10-6
143

20/1
P J Brennan
T R George

He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m 1f to 3m 1f on good and good to soft ground. A winner at 9-4 in a chase at Catterick over 3m 1f (good to soft) on his latest outing in February, beating Everaard by 7l.

25 Across The Bay (IRE) (30J)
11 b g Bob's Return (IRE) - The Southern (IRE) (Glacial Storm (USA))
U0-800B Scotch Piper Syndicate
Blinkers, Tongue strap

10-6
143

33/1
Henry Brooke
D McCain Jnr

Has won three hurdle races, a NH flat race and four chases from 2m to 3m 4f on soft and heavy ground. Brought down when 66-1 at Cheltenham over 3m 2f (good) in a chase won by The Package last month on his latest outing.

26 Tranquil Sea (IRE) (42J)
13 b g Sea Raven (IRE) - Silver Valley (IRE) (Henbit (USA))
231P0-5 Jean & Clemmie Shipp
Tongue strap

10-5
142

50/1
G Sheehan
W Greatrex

Has won three hurdle races, a NH flat race, nine chases and a point-to-point from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 25-1 when fifth of 12 on his latest outing in a chase at Newbury over 3m 2f (good to soft) in February.

27 Oscar Time (IRE) (52J)
14 b g Oscar (IRE) - Baywatch Star (IRE) (Supreme Leader (IRE))
111U14 Mr Robert Waley-Cohen

10-5
142

33/1
Mr S Waley-Cohen
R Waley-Cohen

Has won a hurdle race, a NH flat race, five chases and a point-to-point from 2m 2f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to heavy. Finished 16l behind Aachen when fourth of 8 at 9-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Doncaster over 3m (good to soft) in February. Has won 3 times this season.

28 Bob Ford (IRE) (28J)
8 b g Vinnie Roe (IRE) - Polar Lamb (IRE) (Brush Aside (USA))
120P1P The Jj Partnership
Hood

10-4
141

50/1
P Townend
Miss R Curtis

Winner of two hurdle races, three chases and a point-to-point from 2m 3f to 3m 4f on soft and heavy ground. Pulled up 5 out when 16-1 at Uttoxeter over 4m 1f (soft) in a chase won by Goonyella last month on his latest outing. Has won at Ffos Las and Chepstow this season.

29 Super Duty (IRE) (42J)
9 b g Shantou (USA) - Sarah's Cottage (IRE) (Topanoora)
24/P2-67 Brannon, Dick, Hernon & Holden

10-4
141

33/1
W Kennedy
Ian Williams

Winner of three hurdle races, a NH flat race and a chase from 2m 1f to 2m 5f on ground varying from good to soft, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 8-1 when seventh of 12 on his latest outing in a chase at Doncaster over 3m 2f (good) in February.

30 Wyck Hill (IRE) (49J)
11 b g Pierre - Willow Rose (IRE) (Roselier (FR))
9P16-2F Mr John P McManus
Tongue strap

10-4
141

33/1
Tom Cannon
D G Bridgwater

Winner of five chases from 2m 3f to 4m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy. Fell at the 7th when 11-1 at Newcastle over 4m 1f (good to soft) in a chase won by Milborough in February on his latest outing.

31 Gas Line Boy (IRE) (56J)
9 b g Blueprint (IRE) - Jervia (Affirmed (USA))
U-P11P4 Mick Fitzgerald Racing Club

10-4
141

50/1
James Best
P J Hobbs

Winner of a hurdle race, three chases and a point-to-point from 2m 6f to 3m 5f on good to soft and soft ground. Finished 20l behind Lie Forrit when fourth of 12 at 9-1 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 Betfred Grand National Trial at Haydock over 3m 5f (soft) in February. Has won at Haydock and Exeter this season.

32 Chance Du Roy (FR) (62J)
11 ch g Morespeed - La Chance Au Roy (FR) (Rex Magna (FR))
1P46-55 Miss I D Du Pre
Cheek pieces

10-4
141

25/1
T J O'Brien
P J Hobbs

Has won two hurdle races and six chases from 2m to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to soft. Finished 15l behind Soll when fifth of 14 at 8-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Exeter over 3m (good to soft) in February.

33 Portrait King (IRE) (25J)
10 gr g Portrait Gallery (IRE) - Storm Queen (IRE) (Le Bavard (FR))
8P1292 Marie Davis
Cheek pieces

10-3
140

50/1
D J Condon
M Phelan

He has won three chases and a point-to-point from 3m to 4m 1f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Beaten 2l by Railway Tommy when second of 12 at 13-2 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Down Royal over 3m (yielding - soft) last month.

34 Owega Star (IRE) (185F, 34J)
8 br g Basanta (IRE) - Los Monteros (IRE) (College Chapel)
13-8256 Anthony Callan/mrs Siobhan Callan
Tongue strap

10-3
140

50/1
R M Power
Peter Fahey

Winner of three hurdle races, a NH flat race and two chases from 2m to 2m 6f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 11-4fav when sixth of 8 on his latest outing in a chase at Naas over 3m (soft) last month.

35 River Choice (FR) (49J)
12 ch g River Mist (FR) - Noraca (FR) (Akarad (FR))
F58P14 Mr Fergus Wilson
Blinkers, Tongue strap

10-3
140

100/1
D Cottin
R Chotard

Has won three hurdle races and six chases from 2m 1f to 2m 5f on ground varying from good to heavy. Finished 12l behind Rasique when fourth of 11 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Fontainebleau over 2m 3f in February.

36 Court By Surprise (IRE) (154J)
10 b g Beneficial - Garryduff Princess (Husyan (USA))
3265-11 Mr N Mustoe

10-3
140

25/1
R P McLernon
Miss E C Lavelle

He has won a hurdle race and three chases from 2m 4f to 3m 1f on good to soft ground. Finished second but awarded race at Wincanton over 3m 1f, when 16-1 (good to soft) in November last year, beating Alfie Spinner by a nose. Has also won at Exeter this season.

37 Alvarado (IRE) (52J)
10 ch g Goldmark (USA) - Mrs Jones (IRE) (Roselier (FR))
3/51P4-5 Mr & Mrs William Rucker

10-3
140

16/1
Paul Moloney
F O'Brien

Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m to 3m 3f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Finished 18l behind Aachen when fifth of 8 at 10-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Doncaster over 3m (good to soft) in February.

38 Soll (GB) (42J)
10 ch g Presenting - Montelfolene (IRE) (Montelimar (USA))
750-P11 Mr Derrick Mossop
Blinkers, Tongue strap

10-2
139

14/1
T Scudamore
D Pipe

Winner of a hurdle race, four chases and a point-to-point from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. A winner at 11-2 in a chase at Newbury over 3m 2f (good to soft) on his latest outing in February, beating Relax by 3/4l. Has also won at Exeter this season.

39 Ely Brown (IRE) (70J)
10 b g Sunshine Street (USA) - Browneyed Daughter (IRE) (Broken Hearted (IRE))
10115-P Countrywide Vehicle Rentals Taxi Hire
Cheek pieces

10-2
139

66/1
B Hughes
C E Longsdon

Has won five hurdle races, two chases and a point-to-point from 2m 7f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Pulled up at the last when 12-1 at Wetherby over 3m 1f (soft) in a hurdle race won by Join The Clan in January on his latest outing.

40 Royale Knight (GB) (23J)
9 b g King's Theatre (IRE) - Gardana (FR) (Garde Royale)
23-4132 C E Stedman & R J Corsan

10-2
139

20/1
Brendan Powell
Dr R D P Newland

Has won two hurdle races, six chases and two point-to-points from 2m 5f to 4m on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Beaten 1 1/2l by Forgivienne when second of 6 at 6-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Chepstow over 3m (good to soft) last month.
Race Verdict

The Druids Nephew was a good winner of the big staying handicap chase at Cheltenham and is 10lb well-in here as a result, while Rocky Creek is 9lb well-in compared to his revised mark for winning the BetBright Chase at Kempton. The latter has the advantage of experience in this race, finishing fifth last year, but he was behind Balthazar King there, and Philip Hobbs' charge has been meticulously prepared to go one better than his second-placed finish. Last year's winner Pineau De Re has not been in the same form this term, so Richard Newland could have stronger claims with Royale Knight, who has been kept ticking over in hurdle races since bolting up in a Sedgefield handicap chase. Preference, though, is for SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR, who won the Irish National in good style last spring and his one run this term was a facile success at Carlisle. The fact he is AP McCoy's final National mount may mean he is overbet, but his claims are there for all to see and could prove a fitting farewell ride for the champion jockey.
Selection: Shutthefrontdoor Danger: The Druids Nephew Alternative: Rocky Creek
 
Timeform 123

Rocky Creek (IRE)

Soll

Saint Are (FR)

Timeform View

ROCKY CREEK travelled as well as any for much of last year's National and is worth siding with to come out on top having finally delivered more at the finish than has often been the case when an impressive winner at Kempton off this mark last time. Soll, who was seventh in 2013, has thrived for the switch to David Pipe and is a solid alternative, while Saint Are could go well at longer odds.
 
RP Trends

Racing Post's Kevin Morley highlights the big-race trends from the last ten runnings of the Grand National


10/10 - officially rated 137-157

10/10 - won over at least 3m

10/10 - aged nine to eleven

9/10 - between three and six runs since the start of August

9/10 - won chase worth at least £29,000

9/10 - at least one top-three finish in last three runs

9/10 - no more than one win that season (only four won before the weights were announced)

9/10 - achieved a chase RPR between 148 and 156

8/10 - carried no more than 11st 1lb

7/10 - finished in the first three in a race over at least 3m3f

7/10 - ran between ten and 14 times over fences (all exceptions had between 23 and 27 chase starts)


VERDICT
Last year's Scottish National winner Al Co is the only runner to meet all the criteria.

Favourite Shutthefrontdoor has a fair profile, but you have to go back to Bindaree in 2002 to find the last successful eight-year-old, while he also lacks experience, having had only six chase starts.

Unioniste has stamina to burn but the last winning seven-year-old was 75 years ago.

Rocky Creek is well-in judged on his latest Kempton win, but 11st 3lb is a big weight to carry in this. Last year's runner-up Balthazar King may also have too much weight having won a couple of races already this season.

Last year's winner often runs well without winning so Pineau De Re could reach the frame, although his trainer may have a better chance with Royale Knight. Honourable mentions also go to Night In Milan and Monbeg Dude, both proven staying handicappers who tick plenty of boxes.
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Across the bay a 50/1 shot with bet365

<a href="http://t.co/TSwhwtedST">http://t.co/TSwhwtedST</a>

<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GrandNational?src=hash">#GrandNational</a> <a href="http://t.co/ItV9oKblyl">pic.twitter.com/ItV9oKblyl</a></p>— Fat Jockey (@FatJockeyTips) <a href="https://twitter.com/FatJockeyTips/status/586807329917636608">April 11, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 
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