6:45 Doncaster

Potentially a stronger maiden than seen of late and a couple of expensive juveniles taking their chance over this 5f on good ground. (1st May)

Of the form horses, Scarlett Rocks and Bunce re-oppose after a fair performance at Leicester. Evans' juvenile is a filly with lots of natural speed. She has run consistently on all her starts and on form should have a fighting chance. It is always slightly concerning when a juvenile has a number of races as at some point they are likely to regress. This has to be a point of concern although she has shown plenty of zest for racing so far.

Bunce went off favourite for the Leicester race and he looked to have a great chance until tiring in the final furlong. This son of Good Reward may have needed the race and if so could improve past Evans' Scarlett Rocks but that is a matter for debate.

Juveniles that compete in stakes events are always worth noting, and Lady Platinum Club ran better than her 50/1 sp behind the talented Bathwick Bear. Oldroyd is a capable trainer and Reg Bond is a notable owner. This filly ran on with some spirit that day and although it is difficult to assess the form (3rd Coconut Ice has been beaten narrowly since) this juvenile looks the sort to improve for that run.

It is worth noting that Foghorn Leghorn was quite fancied on debut at Newbury but became unruly in the stalls and was withdrawn. Peter Chapple-Hyam's two-year-old is likely to be backed again.

Of these making their debuts, Breathless Storm and Zaidan have excellent breeding.

Breathless Storm is owned by Mrs Fitri Hay, who certainly doesn't budget when she goes to the sales. Tate is the lucky recipient of a number of expensive two-year-olds (Cole has a number too) and this $300,000 son of Storm Cat must be a tantalizing prospect for this talented trainer. Tate has a fair place rate with all juveniles on debut but his string for Mrs Hay didn't show the greatest ability last year (although many looked more like 3yos). There is little doubt that one of these buys will hit the heights at some point and perhaps Breathless Storm will be the one. It is encouraging to see this youngster out so early in the season as connections may have Royal Ascot in mind. Time will tell whether this colt is a talent or not - but this juvenile catches the eye on breeding at least.

Zaidan is another expensive juvenile. This colt by Street Cry cost $200,000. Clive Brittain's two-year-olds are gradually coming to form, however, they still seem to be making hard work of winning on debut, often at short odds.

Of the rest, Tarantella Lady has been entered to run in a stakes race.

Other races:
1:45 Thirsk
5:10 Goodwood

2:10 Lingfield

A fillies' maiden over 5f where a low draw can be a distinct advantage. (30th April)

Of those with form Phoebs ran well on her Newmarket debut. That form took a knock with the running of Emma's Gift at Yarmouth, however, there will be winners come from that first contest. Trained by the son of the late Terry Mills, it would be no surprise to see this daughter of Where Or When run a big race. The draw is far from ideal and a step up to 6f will no doubt be on the cards. Terry Mills was a superb trainer and it would be fitting to see this juvenile win on the all-weather, a course he had much success.

The Hannon winning spree has not abated and a recent tidy success by Bahceli at Pontefract gives good reason to take note of Jambo Bibi. This filly by Iffraaj cost 40,000 guineas and is certainly worth due consideration, although breeding suggests a stiffer test may be more suitable.

Clive Brittain has a large string of juveniles, specifically owned by Saeed Manana, and his two-year-olds are racing much earlier than normal (probably due to the increased numbers). Those to have raced so far have been rather disappointing with a number running poorly at relatively short prices. Breedj has been give a stakes race entry, which is a sign of confidence, although I would be very cautious backing his debutantes at present because they seem to be struggling and many look in need of the experience.

Russian Ice didn't show a great deal of ability at Windsor but Dean Ivory has a fair place rate on the all-weather and his juveniles can spring a surprise or two at speculative odds.

The majority of those yet to race are from stables that often give their juveniles easy introductions.

Other races:
2:50 Lingfield

5:00 Brighton

A small maiden over the extended 5f with a number of form horses and one debutante. (29th April)

This looks a weak race and not one I would like to wager.

Stunning In Purple showed a good attitude when placed in an uncompetitive race at Lingfield on debut. Haynes' juvenile could well run another big race here but it wouldn't take a talent to beat her. However, the opposition have their limitations too.

Johnny Hancocks is a speed type and probably went a shade too quick at Kempton, paying the price late on by tiring. Evans two-year-olds have been in good form and this colt may be capable of more if able to settle.

Mick Channon's two-year-olds still seem to be struggling to win and this colt by Fath didn't reveal any ability on debut although a nice looking juvenile with plenty of size and scope for improvement. In addition, this runner has been entered to run in a stakes race, which is a positive. There is little doubt that Prophet In A Dream needs to find substantial improvement to figure here but an interesting contender in a race that will not take much winning.

After a promising start for Bill Turner's runner in the Brocklesby (Lady Brookie) his other two-year-olds have only been fair performers at best. Vivre La Secret is relatively short price in the tissue prices. It may be wise to let the betting settle rather than taking an early price.

A difficult race to assess. Stunning In Purple is likely to run her race. Johnny Hancocks may be an alternative.

A watching race.

Other races:
2:00 Redcar

2:20 Pontefract

A maiden for colts and fillies over 5f. (28th April)

Experience can count a lot around this turning track and those to have run have shown some promise.

Little Miss Take took time to understand what was needed on debut here but finished very well after a couple of reminders. The form of that race is difficult to assess and being a restricted auction it is wise to be careful at this time of year. The fact that Kingscote has been booked to ride Lenjawi Pride is certainly a pointer and if the more fancied of the two runners would indicate a lively hope. Dascombe has not sent out a decent two-year-old at present but it is only a matter of time before a talented youngster is seen. At a relatively short price, Dascombe has a very good win rate on debut.

Richard Hannon has to be respected with his two-year-olds although being in such spectacular early form a number of his runners have been under priced. Money is the key to many of theirs and a weakness in the betting can often detail a negative. Bahceli is well owned and cost £48,000.

Mark Johnston is starting to race a few of his youngsters and he is a very talented trainer with a great deal of depth in his string. He often takes a while to test the water with his early season juveniles. Jibaal a bay colt by Acclamation cost £62,000 and owned by Hamdan Al Maktoum. Johnston's horses are often fancied in the betting with just about half of all his representatives starting at 13/2 & less on debut. It often seems the case that he doesn't train many out-and-out 5f types and this colt may appreciate further. A difficult trainer to assess on debut - they either seem to win with ease or struggle a long way out.

Another trainer firing on all cylinders is Richard Fahey. Mr Optimistic could be ready to run a big race on debut and Fahey's juveniles have respectable place averages. Certainly one to consider with the stable in such good form.

Hortensia was well backed on debut and it is encouraging to see this filly has been entered to run in the Phoenix Stakes (Group1). She didn't deliver no more than a fair run on debut although Channon seems to struggle to get his juveniles to win at the first time of asking. His two-year-olds are much more likely to win on their second start and often improve a good deal for that initial experience. It wouldn't be a surprise to see this daughter of Holy Roman Emperor show more ability today.

Not the easiest races to assess with form lines open to question and a number of talented trainers with representatives. The betting will give a good indicator to the chances of Lenjawi Pride while Hortensia may be better than she looks.

A watching race.

Other races:
2:10 Ascot

2:10 Yarmouth

A very restricted auction race over 5f. (27th April)

This looks an ideal opportunity for one of the form horses to gain their first win.

Emma's Gift ran an encouraging race on debut at Newmarket and to all purposes this is a drop in class. Feilden knows a good two-year-old (Spirit Of Sharjah) and she will be hopeful of a big race by this grey filly. The form of the Newmarket race is something of an unknown, however, it has been a very strong race in previous years and could well hide a number of winners.

Channon has made a slow start to the season with his juveniles but Master Macho is a progressive sort. This colt by Camacho didn't justify support on debut but ran better at Beverley, showing plenty of speed and a nice attitude. He was ridden with more restraint at Leicester and ran on well in what looked a fair race for this time of year. It is always a slight negative to see a juvenile appear so quickly after a run but he seems a sturdy type and connections must be keen to take their chance. In such a restricted race, it would be disappointing if this two-year-old couldn't run another big race.

Belle Royale ran with promise on debut and Brisbourn is a canny trainer. This race could be on a similar par to a claimer although in truth this opposition would appear stronger competition.

The betting will be a fair indicator of the unraced and being cheap purchases it makes having a level of ability all the more difficult. Blade Pirate is of some interest as Ryan is a capable trainer and done very well last season when combined with Michael Hills. If backed, it would be significant.

Emma's Gift and Master Macho set a fair level for this grade and will test the debutantes.

Other races:
5:35 Nottingham

5:10 Windsor

A restricted fillies' auction maiden over 5f. (26th April)

Quite a large field of cheap purchases and little depth.

Style And Panache ran well on debut although beaten a shade comfortably by Arctic Feeling who is a capable juvenile. Evans two-year-old went off a short price for a stakes race on her next start and slightly disappointed when beaten by two of Evans runners that day. This race shouldn't take much winning and there is little doubt Style And Panache will travel well with experience on side. It is difficult to rate the form of the previous races and probably an ordinary juvenile - but one with a chance here. There may be a concern over her willingness as this daughter of Trans Island saves a little for herself, however, this is a good opportunity to gain a win.

Richard Hannon has been firing in the winners but a number of his latest runners have disappointed bringing some balance to his statistics. The Sydney Arms is one of the more expensive types. It is never straightforward to establish who is on the first string with Hannon but money is always an encouraging sign considering the many form lines and talented juveniles in their care. The stable does well at Windsor but winning on debut is never an easy task.

John Fretwell had a nice winner at Leicester the other day and Electric Waves is one to consider as McMahon is a very consistent trainer who features a fair place rate on debut.

The betting will be of interest, however, a number of trainers hold poor win rates on debut and this field is likely to be strung out very quickly. Style And Panache will not get too many easier chances than this but it may be wise to play careful here if a short price because she does have her own ideas about racing and if pressed may falter.

2:10 Bath

A maiden race over 5f on firm ground. The form horses do not set the highest level and this is likely to go to a newcomer. A number of debutants come from trainers who struggle to win their first outing and this looks it could go to a fashionable yard. Barking will be at the top of the list for many as Hannon continues in supreme form. Mick Channon fields Alfraamsey, however, he frequently lacks that winning edge while Classic Gem comes from a stable that often takes some stopping. Dascombe's 2-y-o's have not been flying as of yet, but this runner could go well here.

4:35 Ripon

A restricted auction fillies race over 5f. (24th April)

Quite an interesting race with a number of form lines being tested.

Molly Mylenis has run well and especially so when on her last effort at Leicester. The ground is much faster today which may be a slight concern. Although capable, she does seem to become outpaced mid-race before finishing strongly. Perhaps this is the reason why Evans has applied the visor - but this in itself is a concern as there may be an additional reason. On form Evans' juvenile has strong claims but the ground and visor are matter of contention.

Tom Dascombe sent Coconut Ice for a Thirsk stakes race in hope of a small field but found a race of 13 and stiff task for any two-year-old on debut. This filly by Bahamian Bounty cost £20,000 and from a stable that often places juveniles to run a big race on their second start. Her Thirsk performance was encouraging. Having to overcome a poor draw, she showed very good speed and is likely to be a bold runner today. To be fair, she looked pretty fit for her debut and Atkinson was in determined mood. By the final furlong she was tiring and hanging to her right which isn't ideal, however, this was always going to be a stiff task against two decent two-year-olds in the winner and second. This race will be a more suitable contest and she should be able to travel within herself and have something left for the finish.

Lady Morganna is another filly who will find this level more to her liking. The Newmarket contest in which she ran on debut has featured a number of classy two-year-olds over the years. This drop in class will give this daughter of Green Diamond a more able opportunity. That initial performance could turn out to be decent form.

It is difficult to assess the form of the Ripon race where Meandmyshadow finished second. Brown's filly rather plugged on that day but seemed the type to do her best. The winner was in a different class and time will tell what level the place horses set.

Glenns Princess didn't show a great deal of ability at Beverley, a race that was significantly slower than the later division. This filly had been entered for a claiming race which may indicate her standard of ability is limited.

An intriguing race with a few form lines being tested.

Other races:
2:25 Leicester
5:30 Haydock

2:10 Pontefract

A maiden fillies' auction race over 5f. (19th April)

Two juveniles with experience and a number of debutantes.

Majestic Style showed an element of speed in the Brocklesby before fading away tamely. Jarvis doesn't usually have his juveniles fighting fit on debut so this youngster may improve for the run, but certainly needs to. It is interesting to see Dettori booked, however, he rides so infrequently that it is difficult to consider whether his booking has any significance.

Tom Dascombe has still to hit form with his juveniles and the betting will be the best indicator to Little Miss Take. It is encouraging to see Kingscote in the saddle. Dascombe has a very good win and place rate when juveniles are fancied on debut.

Michael Dods is a talented trainer and Madam Markievicz is one of the more interesting runners that could go well at a price.

Richard Fahey has been in fine form with his two-year-olds this season and the betting is generally a very good guide to their chances . This filly by Compton Place was not very expensive but likely to be one of the main fancies in the betting with the stable flying at present.

One of the more expensive fillies in the field, Silca Conegliano cost £55,000. Channon is a talented trainer of two-year-olds and especially the fairer sex. Very few of his juveniles win at big odds and generally attract support if capable. At present his youngsters haven't been in the greatest form and his win rate on debut isn't as impressive as often quoted.


BET: MADAM MARKIEVICZ 1PT EW (16/1) (6th)

Comment: 'Not the most competitive of races and Madam Markievicz was slow away, which made this a stiff task from the off. Dods' youngster looked to have a element of hope but running in behind Majestic Style concluded matters. This was a statistical bet which means performances can vary from individual to individual but long term they make decent opportunities. With more wagers this season, and more statistical bets at speculative prices, we are playing a waiting game on this type of bet - but one worth waiting for.'

Other race:
5:40 Windsor

5:00 Nottingham

A maiden over 5f on good to firm ground. (17th April)

Quite an interesting race with a few form horses on show with a number of debutantes from larger stables.

Diamond Geezah sets the standard with an encouraging 4th in the Brocklesby Stakes. That was a fair effort and this colt by Diamond Green could well improve for the run. Hills' youngster raced rather keen in the early stages, finding trouble in running, before staying on well in the last furlong. The Brocklesby form is holding up well and this two-year-old should be fitter and wiser today.

Richard Hannon has been in amazing form with his two-year-olds and My Son Max has to be noted, especially if relatively fancied in the betting.

A similar comment goes for Rowan Spirit. Dascombe hasn't unleashed one of his better juveniles yet but there is little doubt he will. At £10,000 this grey colt by Captain Rio is not very expensive. The betting will be the best guide and it is worth noting that Dascombe has a decent win rate with his juveniles on debut when relatively fancied.

Sir Lunchalott looks to have a stiff task and has many lengths to find with Diamond Geezah on their Brocklesby running. Moore's colt has a bit of size about him and may well improve with racing, however, he didn't look the most willing of charatcers when second at Lingfield last time, in what could well be a pretty moderate race. The cheek pieces seem to indicate that a little more focus is needed.

Paul Cole is always an interesting trainer although he rarely has winning debutantes priced over 8/1 and juveniles do not feature the greatest win rate on their racecourse bow. The market will be informative to this Dubawi colt's chances.

One of the more interesting entrants is Beach Patrol. Box 41 (owners) often do well with their purchases and this colt by Antonius Pius showed good speed on debut when the lesser-fancied of the two Channon runners. He didn't do much wrong that day but ran a desperate race at Ffos Las on good to soft ground. It is difficult to know why he ran so poorly although you have to consider something was amiss that day. Whether the ground was too soft or he suffered an injury, time will tell. After travelling with the lead, he dropped back and finished many lengths behind. On his debut form this colt has a decent chance - but that means forgiving a disappointing run last time. It wouldn't be the biggest surprise to see this colt show more today.

Other races:
5:10 Doncaster

2:00 Thirsk

A fascinating Stakes race over this fast 5f where a high draw can often be an advantage. (16th April)

Three winners and a field full of debutantes.

Arctic Feeling ran out a ready winner at Southwell and Fahey has made a strong start to the season. This colt by Camacho is a well balanced juvenile and nicely put together. Not lacking for experience on debut he should make a bold bid for a second win although the draw may not be ideal in such a large field.

David Evans is another trainer firing out the runners early season and Bathwick Bear done well to beat his experienced stablemate at Ffos Las. The second, Scarlett Rocks, ran well at Windsor next time out and the third ran respectably at Kempton last night. Clearly Evans is making the most of his son's 5lb claim. It will be interesting to consider how he fares against other winners.

Novabridge makes the trio of winners. Haynes' runner skipped through the heavy ground at Folkestone to win in style. The form of that race isn't easy to assess, however, you can't knock an easy winner and there could be more to come.

A number of debutantes are worth noting although all will have a stiff task against experienced winners.

Brian Smart does very well with his early season two-year-olds and for one of his youngsters to start its career in a Stakes race is an encouraging sign for the future.

This will be an exciting season for Michael Dods because of the significant investment made by Andrew Tinkler and increased string of two-year-olds. Reachfortehstars may not have the best draw but this colt by Silver Train could well run a big race here.

Tom Dascombe has an impressive string of juveniles and it is only a matter of time before the winners start to come. Coconut Ice is an interesting runner as her trainer is capable of sending out a winner on debut although the booking of Atkinson may be a negative.

An exciting race to watch and test a few form lines. Stakes races are never the easiest to assess as although the form horses have the benefit of experience and a level of ability there is always the likelihood a talented debutant may bring about a surprise. However, Arctic Feeling, Bathwick Bear and Novabridge will be trying hard to grab a second win. Fahey has done well with his juveniles so far and he has been quoted as holding this colt in some regard. I was impressed by the win at Southwell as he is a very well balanced juvenile and sturdy type.

More of a watching race - but a good source of future winners.

Other races:
1:30 Newbury

7:10 Kempton

A restricted auction maiden for colts and fillies over 5f. (15th April)

The Richard Hannon Midas touch continues after yesterday's impressive victory by Retainer (2:25 Newmarket) made it five wins from five. Looksmart is a relatively cheap purchase but the way the stable is running at present it would be realistic to consider a big run. (NR)

Mirror Lad is an interesting juvenile. You would consider that Dascombe had good reason to enter this colt for the Brocklesby and to start one of the co-favourites could well indicate that more was expected on debut. The betting will probably be the best guide to his chances today. The trainer features good win and place statistics on second start with relatively fancied runners and it wouldn't be a surprise to see a better performance.

Ivan's A Star ran creditable at Ffos Las last time when running-on for third. A sturdy type, he once again got off to a slow start and still looked a touch inexperienced. The form isn't brilliant but this doesn't look the strongest of races and Moore's colt is likely to make the most of his two races although it wouldn't pay for him to be slow from the stalls. Pick A Little beat Ivan's A Star on debut, however, I would favour Moore's juvenile.

Of those making their debut, Ruby Alexander comes from a stable that has fair place averages for juveniles on their racecourse bow. The wide draw is a concern and this youngster will need to forward to race against more experienced individuals.

A watching race.

Other races:
1:50 Newmarket
2:00 Ripon

1:30 Beverley

Two divisions of this restricted auction race for colts and fillies over 5f on good ground. (14th April)

A race that shouldn't take much winning.

Mapping Time ran out an easy second at Southwell to Jamesway trained by Richard Fahey. The time of that race was markedly slower than the other two-year-old race on the card that day and to all ways of thinking it is difficult to assess the level of Tim Easterby's juvenile. On the plus side, this colt by Orientate wasn't best away and done well to not only get into the race but for a moment look to have a winning chance. Whether this individual has ability or not is a matter of opinion but at the tissue price I would rather watch and learn as the form is still to be proven.

Kevin Ryan had Daas Rite represented in the above mentioned (faster) division at Southwell but looked comprehensively outpaced by the first and second. The winner, Arctic Feeling, looks a capable juvenile, while the second was placed in a recent Stakes race although that could be considered a disappointing performance in ways. Daas Rite will need to do more today although this is certainly an easier race than attempted on debut. It is worth noting that this bay gelding was one of three entrants for his trainer to run in the Brocklesby. Ryan has quite good statistics for his juveniles on their second start when relatively fancied in the betting.

Richard Fahey has form lines with the likely favourites here so could, in theory, hold the aces, however, it should be noted that Glenns Princess has been entered for a Claiming race, which on the face of it would seem to be a negative. I would certainly tread carefully with this juvenile and not jump in too early if taking a price as this cheap purchase by Needwood Blade could well drift in the betting.

The majority of other trainers do not appeal, although in such a limited race it wouldn't be the greatest surprise to see an unfashionable trainer gain a win. Lovat Lane represents Eve Johnson Houghton. This cheap buy is one of the more likelier types, especially if backed.

A poor-looking race with two form horses who will be trying to take advantage of this opportunity. Glenns Princess has a question mark regarding the Claiming entry and it may pay to play a waiting game if fancying her chances.

Bet: 0.5pt EW DAAS RITE (4/1) 5th

Comment: 'A disappointing run from Daas Rite. After being none too well away, and then finding himself in a bumping match he didn't finish with any great zeal. This was a statistical bet rather than a form pick and they are generally very consistent. The race analysis was pretty accurate so it is additionally disappointing that Ryan's juvenile couldn't manage a place at least.'

Other races:
2:25 Newmarket
2:35 Beverley

2:00 Folkestone

Quite a restricted median auction over 5f. (12th April)

The majority of these come from trainers who either struggle to win on debut or have limited appeal and best watched to assess their general level of form.

The main three are Bajan Bullet, Saucy Buck and Cape To Rio.

David Evans has got off to a flying start to the season and has representatives for just about every two-year-old race so far this season. Bajan Bullet has run well on both starts and a race of this nature must see this daughter of With Approval go close. It is slightly worrying that she is out so quickly although the apprentice will put her on good terms. It is still early days and it pays to be very careful when assessing form lines. Clearly this should equate to a drop in class and Bajan Bullet will have her supporters, however, with the race coming so soon and probably being no more than an average juvenile, there will be opposition.

Saucy Buck ran an adequate race on debut and could well improve from that initial performance. Channon's juveniles feature much better statistics on their second start and his 6th in the Brocklesby was a fair introduction. As usual, the Brocklesby is a good source of future winners and this colt by Mujadil will be primed to run today. Certainly one of the more fancied runners.

Richard Hannon has a 100% strike rate with his two-year-olds this season (two wins from two runners) and Cape To Rio isn't without a hope of making it three from three. The juveniles with form will have a big advantage as experience counts for much in this type of race. Hannon won this with Monsieur Chevalier last year and if one of their better juveniles then Bajan Bullet and Saucy Buck will have a stiff task.

The latter pair are most likely to run big races, while Cape To Rio is an interesting contender, but has to overcome inexperience.

Other races:
2:20 Windsor

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4:15 Aintree Grand National Special

It’s that time again.

The months, weeks, days, hours and minutes have been running down. And somewhere the sound of every passing second leads to a neigh bellowed from a retro alarm clock in the form of Red Rum, which jumps about the bedside table, announcing the start of a new day.
As one man wakes, a nation grows in excitement with thoughts of the John Smith’s Grand National Chase.

On Saturday 10th April, millions of betting slips will be scrawled with a time and destination (4:15 Aintree) detailing a selection of some forty horses competing in this racing spectacle, crowned with the excitement of placing a bet – to find that lucky winner.

This unique race is run over four and a half miles and includes thirty fences. It is often concluded by a thrilling battle to the finishing line.

Such is the broad appeal of the Grand National that families, friends and strangers alike come together to cheer their ‘winner’ home. It captures the minds with the feel-good factor of a bright, summer’s day. On this day, the gambler that hides within us all stirs, abuzz with activity, throughout households across the country. No other race could bring a smile to Auntie Mable’s face like Foinavon’s victory. Or stick in the memory so clearly as Red Alligator's win in 1968 just because you liked his snappy name. Who couldn’t be touched by the fairytale of Aldaniti and jockey Bob Champion, prevailing not only in a race that captured the heart’s of a nation but witnessed his courageous fight against cancer.

The Grand National gets people talking like no other race.

Since the very first running in 1839, won by a horse, which some may say was appropriately named Lottery, ridden by Jem Mason and trained by John Elmore, the Grand National has been transformed to the world’s most famous race. Fences such as Beecher’s Brook, St Valentines, The Chair and Canal Turn have become folklore adding to an occasion, which evokes excitement and anticipation as we live the race.

The Grand National tells a story – often one of hope over adversity.

The winner becoming immortalised within racing history: the losers often bravely returning to take a second chance.

The Grand National means many things to many people – but mostly it is fun – capturing the moment by taking a chance. Could you imagine any other time when your grandmother asks if you have a betting slip she can use!

To observe the myriad of ways people make their selections is a novelty in itself. From the old favourites: picking a lucky name to choosing your favourite coloured racing silks. Some will always go with the favourite. While others pick theirs from a hat. (Then quickly change their mind when realising it’s the outsider of the field!) Whichever technique you use, from reading the form to closing your eyes, pointing, and hoping beyond hope, for some it is a winning day.

Just ask all those who backed last year’s winner – Mon Mone at 100-1.

But what are we to make of this year’s spectacle?

As a starting point, it is interesting to note a few statistical facts, which suggest that it is difficult for runners carrying 11st 2lb or more to win. If this year follows a similar pattern then recent winners such as Mon Mone and Comply Or Die will need to buck a trend that has held strong since 1984.

Silver Birch, victor of the 2007 National, presently a reserve, is within the prime weight for success, but has the unenviable burden that no horse has won over the age of twelve since 1923. Whatever your process of elimination, you will need an aspect of luck.

Good luck!

The Grand National is never an easy race to assess – endless variable make huge-priced winners a possibility, however, the majority of winners come at shorter odds, often 20-1 and less.

Here are four candidates who have decent each way claims:

BIG FELLA THANKS 8/1
Trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Ruby Walsh this partnership will be hoping for better fortunes than the disappointment of Kauto Star falling in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. One of the youngsters in the field at eight years old, this gelding by Primitive Rising has been a consistent type and a recent win should put him on good form for this. Having finished sixth behind Mon Mone in last year’s National, that experience should boost the chances of another clear round although he needs to avoid careless mistakes.

ARBOR SUPREME 16/1
Owned by J. P. MacManus you can be confident this gelding will be fit and ready for this although the drying ground may be a concern. Taking his first run outside Ireland, Willie Mullins will be hoping his representative follows in the hoof prints of the durable Snowy Morning who has run well on his last two outings at Aintree. Arbor Supreme ran a creditable second last time at Leopardstown and certainly a newcomer to consider here.

CHARACTER BUILDING 18/1
A debutant for the Grand National, this grey gelding by Accordion will have lady luck on her side with Nina Carberry in the saddle. Having raced over 4 miles, this distance should be within his compass. After racing at Doncaster and Cheltenham, this ten-year-old trained by J.J.Quinn should be primed for a big run.

STATE OF PLAY 20/1
Evan Williams’ bay gelding has won over £270,000 in prize money and raced at the highest level including a Gold Cup. A lightly raced gelding he needs to come back from a disappointing effort back in November when pulling up. He ran with credit in last year’s National, finishing 4th, and if back to his best must have a good chance of making the frame once more.

4:35 Lingfield

A restricted auction race over 5f. (10th April)

Richard Hannon got off to a flying start with a winner on the first day of the season when Takeaway won well at Kempton. Shewalksinbeauty wouldn't have to have the greatest level of ability to play a big role in this limited race. A good draw and owned by Mrs J Wood, who has many winners with Hannon, this filly will probably go off a short priced favourite. It is never easy to win on debut and this daughter of Byron will need to be professional to cope with this turning track.

Sir Lunchalott is one of the more interesting juveniles and only one of two colts in the field. A cheap purchase at only £1,000 this son of Pastoral Pursuits ran in the Brocklesby on debut. He looked inexperienced that day and ran on without being hard ridden. Moore's juveniles feature much better statistics on their seconds starts and this is certainly an easiest test than Doncaster. Connections will be hoping that experience sees him well today.

It is worth noting that Fit For Purpose, Crazy In Love & Hannah Cann have all been entered to run in a Selling race, which may be a negative.

Stacey was another cheap purchase and her trainer, Jean-Rene Auvray, has only trained a handful of two-year-olds over the last few seasons.

Andrew Haynes is a capable trainer and his recent winner at Folkestone, Novabridge, will certainly give a line to other juveniles in their string. The jockey booking of Amy Baker suggests Stunning In Purple may need the experience today.

Mini Bon Bon is worth noting in the betting as Alan Bailey features quite good statistics on debut when his juveniles are relatively short prices.

Patrick Morris can often have his juveniles ready on debut although Celtic Anu has a wide draw which may be a disadvantage.

This race shouldn't take much winning and a number of these will be contesting Selling class before long. Shewalksinbeauty, Sir Lunchalott and Mini Bon Bon (if backed) are the most likely contenders.

A watching race.

2:15 Musselburgh

A small field for this 5f maiden on good to soft ground. (9th April)

Las Verglas Star ran in the Brocklesby Stakes at Doncaster, clearly looking second string for that contest and apprentice ridden on debut. This grey colt by Verglas showed speed for a couple of furlongs but soon tired and finished down the field. If needing the run, this two-year-old could improve with racing although he would need to do just that as a starting point. In such a small field, and showing limited ability on his only start, this race is far from straightforward.

Fahey's other runner, Mica Mika, was a relatively cheap buy at 8,000euros. This chestnut colt is by Needwood Blade, owned by Mrs Una Towell who done well with the talented Fonthill Road, also trained by Fahey. The betting will probably be the best indication of the ranking of these two juveniles.

Gartsherrie, the last of the trio, is trained by P.T. Midgley. He has trained a number of two-year-olds over the last few seasons and capable of training a winner although often at a limited standard. His general win rate on debut isn't the most impressive but in such a small field with next to no form to assess likely chances it is very much a matter of wait and see.

A difficult race to have any strong opinion.

A watching race.

2:15 Leicester

A median auction maiden over 5f on heavy ground. (8th April)

These conditions are likely to make this a test and juveniles will certainly need to have plenty of stamina. A mix of colts and fillies from a number of trainers, half a dozen with form.

David Evans has started the season in a positive fashion and is represented with three juveniles. The Best Mode is an interesting runner and it may be a mistake to conclude this juvenile is second string. This grey colt by Camacho ran in the Brocklesby and although his finishing position looks somewhat disappointing he was there abouts for a number of furlongs before tiring. It is worth noting that of the three juveniles he entered for the Brocklesby two have already won and as The Best Mode was relatively fancied in the betting for his debut there may be more to come on this second start.

Molly Mylenis is presently the more fancied of the two runners on tissue prices and betting exchanges. In addition, this filly by Needwood Blade has been entered for a Stakes race which may be a positive. Clearly the fact she ran on heavy ground at Folkestone is a plus although it is difficult to assess the form. After being very slow away from the stalls she ran on with some spirit to finish upsides Calormen. It is never straightforward to assess early juvenile form, however, that didn't look the strongest of contests and it may well pay to tread carefully until the form settles.

Calormen is a difficult horse to assess as his entries give mixed signals - being entered to run in a Selling and Stakes race respectively. Perhaps the Selling entry is something of a red herring but it would concern me that his two-year-old may soon be entered at a similar level, which doesn't inspire confidence.

Sky Diamond ran in the Brocklesby Stakes, finishing a few places ahead of The Best Mode. Such an entry gives hope as the general standard of form is often quite high compared to many of these run-of-the-mill maidens. I find Given a difficult trainer to judge and his second time out statistics for juveniles at relatively short prices are moderate. I would much prefer watching this juvenile today and learn a little more.

Karl Ryan had a poor season last year and his youngsters are often relatively short priced on debut. Unknown Rebel was completely run of his feet at Kempton and didn't make any impression thereafter. It is interesting that this colt by Night Shift was entered to run in the Brocklesby as entrants from previous years have shown ability. On the face of it, this two-year-old looks poor but it wouldn't be wise to completely disregard this runner. If this colt is backed to a relatively short price it could well be significant sign. In addition, Ryan has done well with his juveniles at Leicester so there is an element of encouragement.

An intriguing race with a number of Brocklesby entrants/runners taking part in this contest. It may be wise to tread careful with Calormen and Molly Mylenis as the Folkestone race didn't look the strongest of contests although it is difficult to be conclusive at this time. It wouldn't surprise me to see The Best Mode and Unknown Rebel progress with racing and they are worth noting for betting moves. The heavy ground is an added dilemma and this is a difficult race to appreciate but interesting in its own right.

2:20 Nottingham

A small Stakes race of fillies and two colts over this 5f on soft ground. (7th April)

Never the easiest of races to judge and the testing ground will probably have this field strung out by the line.

Takeaway ran well on debut when joint favourite and won with authority. A decent-looking colt, he travelled like a winner turning the home bend and could progress with racing.

David Evans has his string very forward and his three representatives have shown ability. Little Libretto went off at 66/1 for the Brocklesby and wasn't disgraced. Style And Panache ran a cracking race on debut when held by Fahey's Arctic Feeling, which looks a decent juvenile. This filly by Trans Island didn't show any signs of inexperience that day at Southwell and connections must have been surprised they didn't collect with the third toiling some distance behind. Gannon was originally booked to ride Style And Panache but either chose Bajan Bullet or Jamie Spencer was given the nod. Bajan Bullet holds Wotsthehurry on their running at Lingfield and Gannon's mount was storming home at the finish after running very wide for most of the race. All of Evans' juveniles here are interesting in their own right and the betting is probably the best insight to their respective chances.

Galtymore Lad is worth watching, however, Channon's win rate on debut is not that impressive and it will be a stiff task to win this on debut. (NR)

A watching race.

2:20 Ffos Las

A maiden for colts and fillies over 5f on good to soft ground. (6th April)

Lady Brookie ran a great race for Bill Turner, losing out by a narrow margin for the Brocklesby on debut. Her handler often sends his best juvenile to compete in this prestigious Stakes race and such a performance, especially for a filly, deserves respect in what is potentially a drop in class. She is not the biggest of juveniles and may look rather small compared with a few of the colts in this field. Lady Brookie has a good chance of winning on this second start although at restricted odds may be there to be shot at.

Beach Patrol ran with credit on debut, being the lesser fancied of two Channon runners. A speedy type, this colt is likely to be with the lead once again. Channon's juveniles feature a much better win rate on their second start and the experience will be a big advantage over those making their debuts. It is difficult to assess the worth of the Kempton form and for that reason alone it pays to be cautious, however, one of the main contenders.

From the same race, Ivan's A Star is an interesting runners although there is a doubt or two about Moore's juvenile. This colt was originally entered to run in the Brocklesby Stakes but didn't go for that race and since been entered for another Stakes event. Moore has done well with his Brocklesby entrants from previous years and this may be an encouraging sign. This son of Ivan Denisovich didn't have much luck in running: starting slowly from on outside draw, raced wide and slightly hampered, and then running on at the finish. He has a number of lengths to reverse the form with Beach Patrol, which isn't going to be easy, but not beyond the realms considering he had no luck that day. The potential negative could be the jockey booking of Luke Morris, with respect to why Keniry (who rode this juvenile on debut) is racing at Southwell (two rides, one for Moore). Whether this is a negative is a matter of opinion but Ivan's A Star may not be such a hopeless case although it would have been more encouraging to see Keniry in the saddle.

David Evans has three juveniles entered here, Scarlet Rocks the one with form. This filly by Chineur ran a fair race on debut, however, it remains to be seen what level that race sets. The majority were very cheap buys and a restricted Auction event which could be on a similar par to a Selling race. The jockey bookings are something of an unknown. Dingle View has been entered to run in a Stakes event. However, the betting will most likely indicate the pecking order of the three. To add further confusion to the Evans' runners, Bathwick Bear was originally entered to run in the Brocklesby Stakes, which, once again, has often been an encouraging sign for this stable.

Babich Bay is worth a mention as this Curtis-trained youngster was entered to run the other day but withdrawn. This colt was quite well backed on that occasion and may be gambled once again.

Lady Brookie will take some beating if running to her form in the Brocklesby Stakes although the price will be restricted and form lines are still unproven, however, there are usually a number of winners come from the race. The Evans' runners are a quandary and it may pay to watch the betting if backing Scarlet Rocks as her initial effort may be from a weak race. Ivan's A Star is an intriguing runner at a price but the jockey booking is difficult to assess and may be a negative, which wouldn't bode well.

An interesting race to test a few form lines.


A watching race.