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Grand National runners, riders, favourites and odds for 2024: Full horse list
Hewick, the winner of a pulsating King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day, has been allotted top weight for the Randox Grand National.
He will have to shoulder 11st 12lb at Aintree should he line up in April, with last year’s winner Corach Rambler given 11st 2lb.
Irish horses dominate the field with all but seven runners in the top 34 currently trained in Britain. Many trainers will withdraw their horses from contention before the race but a low number of British-trained runners appears likely.
A horse-by-horse guide to the Grand National entries for 2024
Hewick (IRE) 9, 11st 12lb, Offical Rating: 169
Mr T. J. McDonald, John Joseph Hanlon, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Cost £800, failing to complete in his first three point-to-point starts did not augur well but other laurels include US Grand National (hurdle race), Galway Plate, Durham National, Bet365 Gold Cup and Oaksey Chase. Was still in front on 2023 Gold Cup when falling at the second last. He’s a great story but, like it or not, he is a little fellow who has been lumped with a big weight.Conflated (IRE) 10, 11st 9lb, OR: 166
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 40/1
High class chaser. Having won an Irish Gold Cup and Savills Chase at Leopardstown he has no choice but to run against the best these days. Third in last year’s Gold Cup he has unseated on his last two starts, both times at the last having run mighty races and given his all against Galopin Des Champs.Noble Yeats (IRE) 9, 11st 8lb, 165, OR: 165
Mr Robert Waley-Cohen, Emmet Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 16/1
Has been reinvented as a staying hurdler having won the Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham in January and the Stayers Hurdle will, if nothing else, be a less gruelling National warm up than the Gold Cup. Good fourth last year, good each-way chance again but handicapper usually sees to it that horses do not win it twice.Capodanno (FR) 8, 11st 4lb, OR: 165
Mr John P. McManus, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 22/1
A Grade One winner over jumps and a touch of class but pulled up before the last fence behind Corach Rambler a year ago which leaves a slight question mark over his stamina for an extreme distance. Maybe more of a winning chance in the Topham?Coko Beach (FR) 9, 11st 4lb, OR: 161
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 40/1
The grey has never been in better form than he has this season; winning the Troytown Chase, finishing second to Chambard in the Becher Chase at Aintree and adapting to cross-country fences at Punchestown as if he were born to it on his last start. But he has run in two Nationals running out of petrol both times and the fact remains that a jockey riding him in the marathon is always going to set off with range anxiety.Nassalam (FR) 7, 11st 4lb, OR: 161
John and Yvonne Stone, Gary Moore
Odds: 33/1
Runaway winner of the Welsh National in December when he was the only horse to handle the appalling conditions. That warranted a Gold Cup entry. Chepstow either flattered him or, if the handicapper who put him up a stone is right, extreme distance and/or blinkers has improved him out of all recognition. He has won on good to soft but really thrives when it is almost unraceable.Fakir d’Oudairies (FR) 9, 11st 3lb, OR: 160
Mr John P. McManus, Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Has been campaigned mainly over two and a half miles for most of career so trip is going to be a problem here. However he does have good Aintree form having won the Melling Chase twice and horses who like the Mildmay course often like the National course. They must just like Liverpool. That may be clutching at straws though.Ash Tree Meadow (FR) 8, 11st 2lb, OR: 159
Alymer Stud Ltd, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Having once lived in Ashtree Cottage I would be compelled to have a fiver on this one. Essentially a two and a half miler he won the Galway Plate in the summer and then followed up in a two-horse race at Down Royal. Rating would get him in comfortably but having never tackled three miles he will need to so before long to guarantee qualification.Corach Rambler (IRE) 10, 11st 2lb, OR: 159
The Ramblers, Lucinda Russell
Odds: 14/1
Last year’s winner. Only a handful of horses have come back and won it again although they are often good each-way shots. We won’t see the pride of Scotland until March when he will contest the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Won last year off 10st 5lbs, the handicapper has given him a chance.I Am Maximus (FR) 8, 11st 2lb, OR: 159
Mr John P. McManus, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 20/1
Won last year’s Irish National. The last horse to complete the double was Numbersixvalverde in 2006 and, before him, Bobbyjo in 1999 – maybe it is time for another. Has chased round his stable companion Galopin Des Champs on his last two starts. Absolutely no disgrace in that but only rated 1lb below Corach Rambler now.Janidil (FR) 10, 11st 2lb, OR: 159
Mr John P. McManus, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Grade One novice chase winner who went on to be placed in Ryanair Chase and Irish Gold Cup. Probably just short of very top class but consistent enough to prevent the handicapper forgiving him which means he is between the two awful stools in jump racing; not good enough to win a Grade One, too much weight in a handicap.Minella Indo (IRE) 11, 11st 2lb, OR: 159
Mr Barry Maloney, Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Bidding to become only the third horse after Golden Miller and L’Escargot in 100 years of the Gold Cup to win that race and the National. Won it in 2021 and was runner up to A Plus Tard a year later. Fourth on his cross-country debut at Cheltenham in December, could take in the same course on his way to the National. The class act of the race.Asterion Forlonge (FR) 10, 11st 1lb, OR: 158
Mrs J. Donnelly, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Considered good enough to run in 2022 Gold Cup. Tends to make the odd howler over fences. After finishing half a length behind Klassical Dream in the Champion Stayers Hurdle at Punchestown in the spring, his trainer said he would probably stick to hurdles so he might be surprised to see himself entered here.Mahler Mission (IRE) 8, 11st 1lb, OR: 158
Colm Herron & Rockview Racing Syndicate, John McConnell, Ireland
Odds: 14/1
Usually fitted with special shoes to combat the age-old thoroughbred condition: flat feet, his sire Mahler (second St Leger, third Melbourne Cup) is a strong influence on stamina. Four lengths clear in last year’s National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham when falling at the second last marked him out as a big player in staying chases for this season.Stattler (IRE) 9, 11st 1lb, OR: 158
Mr R. A. Bartlett, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Ran Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs to eighth lengths in Irish Gold Cup but he found the Cheltenham Gold Cup run a stride too fast for him. Did not exactly take to cross-country like a duck to water last time but a touch of class and might enjoy the rhythm of a National. There are worse 50-1 shots.Classic Getaway (IRE) 8, 11st, OR: 157
Cheveley Park Stud, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Was on the back foot after an early blunder in a big handicap chase at Dublin Racing Festival and eventually pulled up. That looked a blip because for a big horse he is usually an agile jumper. Appears to be happy on any ground which is a bonus for a race like the National. Not the best but nowhere near the worst of the Mullins baker’s dozen of entries.Delta Work (FR) 11, 11st, OR: 157
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Multiple Grade One chase winner in the past including Irish Gold Cup in 2020. Fifth in a Cheltenham Gold Cup, reinvented as a cross-country specialist and earned notoriety for piddling on Tiger Roll’s chips by beating the two-time National winner on his swansong in 2022. One can’t help wondering if he has had his chances; third behind Noble Yeats two years ago, unseated jockey at 21st when going ok last year.Foxy Jacks (IRE) 10, 11st, OR: 157
Ms Rachel Carthy, M. F. Morris, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Took a while to work it out as a cross-country horse but it has been the making of him and he now appears to know where to put his feet. Beat Latenightpass in Cheltenham’s Cross-Country in November and the runner up went back and won the December version. Not fussy about the ground. Not straightforward but could go well at a decent each-way price.Threeunderthrufive (IRE) 9, 10st 13lb, OR: 156
McNeill Family, Paul Nicholls
Odds: 28/1
Good winner at Ascot last start but straight backed jumper not guaranteed to get round. Probably at his peak in terms of age and form so it’s now or never for him. But one of Paul Nicholls’ better chances of the past few years if he copes with fences.Galvin (IRE) 10, 10st 12lb, OR: 155
Mr R. A. Bartlett, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 20/1
Another nearly very good horse. Won the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham in 21. Won the Grade One Savills Chase next season and good fourth behind A Plus Tard in Gold Cup. Came back last year as a cross-country horse and, after beating Delta Work, was quite fancied to give Davy Russell a good send off in his last National. He did that in a fashion sending the jockey into orbit at the first.Farouk d’Alene (FR) 9, 10st 11lb, OR: 154
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 40/1
Jumping could be the problem here. Good chaser on his day but consecutive falls in the 2022 Brown Advisory and, after a year off, in this season’s Troytown does not inspire confidence that he will get round. Could be good enough though. He was cantering just behind L’Homme Presse when coming down two out in the Brown Advisory so, if he can retrieve it, ability there.Salvador Ziggy (IRE) 8, 10st 11lb, OR: 154
William Hurley/Mrs Aisling Hurley, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Won four hurdles on the bounce in the 22-23 season before finishing a good second in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham. A novice chaser who won his first three starts over fences this season before finishing a good second in the Kerry National under a big weight. Summer/good ground horse who would be well suited were Aintree’s watering system to fail.Eldorado Allen (FR) 10, 10st 10lb, OR: 153
J P Romans & Terry Warner, Joe Tizzard
Odds: 50/1
Has not won since We Don’t Talk About Bruno was number one and he beat Royale Pagaille in the Denman Chase at Newbury. But has been bridesmaid to Bravemansgame and Protektorat since and was a good fourth in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury in December. Good jumper, class is in there somewhere and Aintree could bring it out.Letsbeclearaboutit (IRE) 9, 10st 10lb, OR: 153
Alymer Stud Ltd, Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
A decent staying novice finishing fourth in last season’s Albert Bartlett. Once upon a time you would never consider Aintree for a novice chaser but these days you wouldn’t think twice about running one first time out over the National fences if you could. Won his first two starts over fences this season and competitive in Grade One novices since. Bit of a dark horse.Ain’t That A Shame (IRE) 10, 10st 10lb, OR: 152
Robcour, Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Good old chaser who usually pays his way. Won the biggest race of his career when taking the Thyestes Chase at Gowran last time. All his wins have come on the heavy. Job to know if he was held up or couldn’t go the pace in last year’s race but briefly moved up after Valentine’s second time before fading again to finish 17th and last for Rachael Blackmore.Fury Road (IRE) 10, 10st 9lb, OR: 152
Sierra Pacific & Pioneer Racing, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Nearly a very good horse. Third in a couple of Grade One Leopardstown chases last year including eight lengths behind Galopin Des Champs in Irish Gold Cup. Warmed up for last year’s National with a tidy run in the Ryanair but fell at the second in the National and really has not been the force of old since. Probably not one for the mortgage.James du Berlais (FR) 8, 10st 9lb, OR: 152
Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
On his first start for Willie Mullins after arriving from France he was 14-1 for Honeysuckle’s 2021 Champion Hurdle. Cannot think of many National winners who have run in a Champion. That proved ambitious (last) and stepping up to three miles at Punchestown proved more successful - runner up in the Stayers. Won his maiden chase at the first time of asking but has not got his head in front since.Bronn (IRE) 7, 10st 8lb, OR: 151
Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
A grade 2 winning novice hurdler back in 2022, he has bits and pieces of smart form over fences but has not been rocking it so far this season with two wide margin defeats and pulled up last behind Ain’t That A Shame in the Thyestes. Only young so plenty of time to come back and would get in the race if they want to run.Vanillier (FR) 9, 10st 8lb, OR: 151
Mrs H. M. Keaveney, Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
Odds: 11/1
A gallant two and a quarter length runner up to Corach Rambler in last year’s race despite being 12 lengths down at the last. One wonders if ridden a bit closer to the action on the second circuit if it might have been a different story and this time, instead of giving 1lb, he’ll be receiving 8lbs. Once a winner of the Albert Bartlett Hurdle at Cheltenham he seems to save his best form for the spring.Dusart (IRE) 9, 10st 7lb, OR: 150
Bartlett & Carthy, Nicky Henderson
Odds: 100/1
Not the typical Henderson template of compact nimble, this one is lovely old fashioned big and long chaser. Agility may not be his middle name. Has struggled a bit lately to even complete what with pulling up twice and being brought down in last year’s Scottish National though he was going ok at the time. Until Mister Coffey led the field back over the Melling Road for the last time last April, trainer had struggled to get one beyond the first fence for a few years.Le Milos 9, 10st 7lb, OR: 150
The Jolly Good Partnership, Dan Skelton
Odds: 50/1
Former Coral Gold Cup winner who looks like he’s running over hurdles this season in a bid to refind his mojo. A 12-1 shot for last year’s race in which he finished 10th - 36 lengths behind Corach Rambler. Ridden at the back he made good headway into the race going to second last but his effort petered out as if stamina might be an issue at the tale-end of an extreme marathon. Worth a second shot at it though only if he finds some sort of form.Longhouse Poet (IRE) 10, 10st 10lb, OR: 150
Sean & Bernardine Mulryan, Martin Brassil, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
A good sixth behind Noble Yeats two years ago and quietly fancied for last year’s race on the back of it. But he got no further than the Canal Turn first time - too early to say how well it was going. Having travelled well for a long way in 2022 there was a slight suspicion he did not quite see it out but he did belt Foinavon’s fence (23rd). You’d wonder if his chance hadn’t come and gone on his third attempt but down a smidgeon in the handicap.Mr Incredible (IRE) 8, 10st 7lb, OR: 150
Paul Byrne & J. Carthy, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Not the Mullins number one last year but had a good profile in the race having finished second in the Warwick Classic and third in the Kim Muir. In midfield when the saddle slipped - there’s always one - at the Canal Turn second time and it was bye-bye Brian Hayes. Did not start last season until Christmas but taking that to a new level this season as not seen out since that race. Likely had a problem, once refused to race, would need an outing before the National.Latenightpass 11, 10st 6lb, OR: 149
Mrs P. A. Ellis, Dan Skelton
Odds: 33/1
Well named (by Passing Glance out of Midnightdip) if he gets in the race the 11-year-old will be a big focus of attention in the build-up to April 13 - owned and bred by Pippa Ellis and ridden by her extremely capable daughter-in-law point-to-point champion Gina Andrews. He has spent most of his career in the point-to-point field trained by Gina’s husband Tom Ellis, he has already won an Aintree Foxhunters over the fences and has been a revelation in cross-countries at Cheltenham this season. If the race still goes to the best story, look no further and he would be the first genuine hunter chaser to win since Grittar in early 1980s.Minella Crooner (IRE) 8, 10st 6lb, OR: 149
KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Stopped very quickly in last year’s National Hunt Chase. Made a good comeback from that winning a hard fought chase in the mud at Wexford but, again, pulled up sharply four out in a three and three quarter mile chase at Fairyhouse. There may have been reasons but I think Sherlock Holmes would deduce that he does not get extreme distances.Run Wild Fred (IRE) 10, 10st 6lb, OR: 149
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
It’s been a while. Last win was in the Troytown in 2021 but did run a good second in an Irish National. Also runner up in the 2022 National Hunt Chase with Vanillier behind him in third. Stamina not an issue. Fell at Canal Turn behind Noble Yeats and 10 days later in the Irish. Brought down in a four horse race last time so confidence might not be at all time high and realistically not in great form this winter.Adamantly Chosen (IRE) 7, 10st 5lb, OR: 148
Watch This Space Syndicate, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
The only way he is top of the list of Willie Mullins’s 13 entries for the National is if it’s in alphabetical order. Would make the cut but would have something to prove at the distance. Finished a well beaten seventh in the Brown Advisory at Cheltenham on his first start over three miles and did not fare much better over the trip at Leopardstown at Christmas. Unknown territory beyond Becher’s second time.Chemical Energy (IRE) 8, 10st 5lb, OR: 148
Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 40/1
Good sort not seen out since finishing sixth in the Kerry National in September. Runner-up in last season’s National Hunt Chase behind Galliard Du Mesnil after being left in front at the second last when Mahler Mission fell but could not sustain his four length advantage at the last. Disappointed in Irish National after that when jumping was a bit patchy. Sold in February 6 for £215,000 - that would look cheap if he went on to win the National.Mac Tottie 11, 10st 5lb, OR: 148
Steve & Jackie Fleetham, Peter Bowen
Odds: 66/1
West Wales trainer has an extraordinary record in the Topham having won it five times, once with this fella. This one has to be considered an Aintree specialist having won a Grand Sefton as well as the Topham. The big greens bring the best out of him. Only blip was a fall at The Chair in the Becher Chase a few years ago. Has never actually won - placed a few times - over three miles so trip a question mark but nothing to lose having a shot.Favori de Champdou (FR) 9, 10st 4lb OR: 147
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Reasonably smart staying novice hurdler last season although came unstuck at Cheltenham when pulled up in Albert Bartlett. As of the entries had only run four times over fences which would make him one of the least experienced runners. Time to rectify that a bit even though a good National winning age, it looks a year too soon.Limerick Lace (IRE) 7, 10st 4lb, OR: 147
Mr John P. McManus, Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Good homebred mare of JP McManus. A better chaser than hurdler and impressive 10 length winner at Doncaster last time putting her in the mix for Cheltenham mares’ race. Has plenty of gears and has done most of her racing over two and a half but was sent off favourite on her first start over three in the Troytown. Good effort there to finish second to Coko Beach - she was the one to take out of the race.Meetingofthewaters (IRE) 7, 10st 4lb, OR: 147
Mr P. Byrne, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Joined Mullins at the start of the season. Went straight from winning his beginners chase to winning the competitive Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Leopardstown at Christmas. Lot of National aspirants behind him that day and the handicapper put him up 15lbs for that. Unseating his jockey at the Dublin Racing Festival absolutely no fault of his own as something fell in front of him at the first.Monbeg Genius (IRE) 8, 10st 4lb, OR: 147
Barrowman Racing Limited, Jonjo O’Neill
Odds: 20/1
Decent enough hurdler but really began to show what he was made of when he went chasing last year winning three, finishing third a very good behind Corach Rambler and Fastorslow at Cheltenham in what appeared to be the handicap chase of the season. Confirmed that when third in the Coral Gold Cup in December.Roi Mage (FR) 12, 10st 4lb, OR: 147
Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont, Patrick Griffin, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Name may not be up in lights but has won his fair share of prize-money during his career. Has had more trainers than Emma Radacanu but giving Paddy Griffin some fun in the twilight of career mainly spent in France. Ran a blinder in last year’s National to finish seventh, only beaten 14 lengths by Corach Rambler giving French champion Felix de Giles a dream ride. If you picked him in a sweepstake he would give you a run for your money.The Goffer (IRE) 7, 10st 4lb, OR: 147
Mr Allan Snow, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Fourth to Kitty’s Light in last year’s Bet365 Gold Cup which puts him in the picture in terms of stamina. By the same sire as Noble Yeats. He hasn’t been running badly this season but not exactly rocking it in two starts since second in Galway Plate but that shows he has a bit of pace to go with the stamina. That said trainer probably has better shots among his multiple entries.Chambard (FR) 12, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
David & Carol Shaw, Venetia Williams
Odds: 66/1
This would be an all female victory were the 12-year-old to triumph; he is invariably ridden by Lucy Turner who would be the first female amateur to win the race. She won the Kim Muir on him in 2022 and his first win since was over the National course at Aintree in December when he took to the fences like a duck to water beating Coko Beach 13 lengths. Age is but a number however the last 12-year-old to win was Amberleigh House 20 years ago.Eklat de Rire (FR) 10, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Mr P. Davies, Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Not many miles on the clock for his age. Looked to be a smart novice when winning Grade 3 chase on his second start but unseated in the Brown Advisory at Cheltenham behind Monkfish Nevertheless punters liked him enough to send him off favourite for the 2022 Coral Gold Cup but pulled up by Rachael Blackmore. Must have had his problems and has appeared to have slightly lost his way since. Not an obvious chance.Embittered (IRE) 10 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
A lot of people are slight embittered that his trainer has 26 entries in the race and could realistically have up to a third of the 34 runner field but, heyho, he has a lot of three mile staying chasers in the yard. However this might not be one of them. Has mainly been campaigned over two and a half miles and his one attempt at three miles ended up pulled up. Over the old National fences when they ‘hunted’ for the first circuit, two and a half milers could win.Galia des Liteaux (FR) 8, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Mr Michael Ariss, Dan Skelton
Odds: 33/1
Would be bidding to become the first mare to win the race since Nickel Coin in 1951 and only 14th in total. However Magic of Light was a good second to Tiger Roll in 2019 so that should be no bar. She looked the one to take out of the Warwick Classic when staying on strongly to chase My Silver Lining home. On that basis she has a good each-way chance but you would want to put a line through her latest start at Exeter.Gevrey (FR) 8, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Denis Gallagher Racing, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Largely campaigned over two and a half miles but only beaten a length by I Am Maximus when stepped up to three miles, five furlongs in the Irish National last spring. That was a good effort and had he jumped better we might be talking about an Irish National winner. Has very in and out form this season. On his last four starts he has pulled up three times and won the Munster National in between. Jumping has cost him in the past.Glengouly (FR) 8, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Roaringwater Syndicate, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 33/1
Appeared to take a while to regain his mojo after a fall last season but has been a good second in two handicap chases this season. Any stamina doubts cast aside when second in a heavy ground Thyestes Chase on the heavy when second to Ain’t That A Shame. Looks like he’s improving, gradually rather than rapidly but going in the right direction.Kitty’s Light 8, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
R J Bedford & All Stars Sports Racing, Christian Williams
Odds: 30/1
Christian Williams has actually won a Grand National - the virtual one in 2020 with his 2019 Welsh National winner Potters Corner but, obviously, you can’t dine out on that. It’s been a difficult year for the Welsh trainer and his family with daughter Betsy being treated for leukaemia and winning the National would be a wonderful tonic. The eight-year-old always comes good in the spring and last year completed the Eider Chase-Scottish National - Bet365 Gold Cup treble.Panda Boy (IRE) 8, 10st 3lb, OR: 146
Old Pals Partnership, Martin Brassil, Ireland
Odds: 22/1
Another grey bidding to join an elite club of just three horses of that colour (The Lamb 1886 and 1871), Nicolaus Silver (1961) and Neptune Collonges (2012) to have triumphed in the National. Maybe maligning him to say he does not win that often but he maybe being protected from the handicapper at the moment after his very creditable fifth in last year’s Irish National.Busselton (FR) 7, 10st 2lb, OR: 145
Mr Michael Hilary Burke, Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Even though he is trained by one of the legendary O’Brien family, I am not seeing Busselton in my crystal ball. Won last season’s Kerry National before running a good fifth in the Coral Gold Cup behind Le Milos at Newbury but not much doing this season. However progress may have been halted by the weather. Best form on good ground so may be unfair to judge him on the back of a wet winter.Empire Steel (IRE) 10, 10st 2lb, OR: 145
Alan Wight, Sandy Thomson
Odds: 66/1
Trained in Scotland by former rugby player Sandy Thomson. Thorough stayer who beat Le Milos at Kelso last March. All but one of his victories have been in Scotland and his one south o’er the border was at Carlisle. Scotland’s National winners, One For Arthur and Corach Rambler, have come along like London buses since Rubstic broke the nation’s duck in 1979. But he does not quite have the profile to be the next.Fiddlerontheroof (IRE) 10, 10st 2lb, OR: 145
The Minions, Jim Boyle
Odds: 50/1
Smart chaser on his day for Colin then Joe Tizzard but now trained in Epsom by Jim Boyle. It would be a while since there was a National winner from that area, the last ones being 1951 winner Nickel Coin, trained by Jack O’Donoughue in Reigate (the last mare to win it) and Rough Quest from Beare Green. Was quietly fancied by connections last year and duly ran a cracker in fifth and was right in the mix until the second last.Malina Girl (IRE) 7, 10st 2lb, OR: 145
Mrs JM Russell, Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Another mare. Not the biggest but usually jumps well although did fall when travelling very well at Cheltenham in December. Booked her entry by winning at the same course in November. Progressive former Munster National winner, stamina should not be a problem but that fall may have left its mark because not in quite the same form since.Desertmore House (IRE) 9, 10st 1lb, OR: 144
O. B. P. Carroll/Anthony Vaughan, Martin Brassil, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Nine-year-old novice chaser in the hands of trainer who won with Numbersixvalverde. Something of a late starter having never raced until he was six. Won his first start over fences last summer and by autumn had already captured the Kerry National in good style, enhancing trainer’s reputation with the handful of staying chasers he has. Had a load of National entries behind him that day. Big tasks but a tad disappointing since.Fantastic Lady (FR) 9, 10st 1lb, OR: 144
Mr E. R. Hanbury, Nicky Henderson
Odds: 80/1
One of the biggest shocks of the trainer’s career was this mare, who jumped five bar gates out with the Quorn Hunt as a youngster with her owner, was when she unseated her jockey at the first in the 2022 Topham. She has since made amends by jumping two lovely clear rounds over the fences including finishing second to Bill Baxter in last season’s Topham and fifth in this season’s Becher. Might be running on fumes from Canal second time.Highland Hunter (IRE) 11, 10st 1lb, OR: 144
Nic Brereton and Lindsey Brennan, Fergal O’Brien
Odds: 66/1
A lightly raced veteran who was with Paul Nicholls last season, now with Fergal O’Brien. Was ridden out for Nicholls by ill-fated point-to-point jockey Keagan Kirkby. Nicholls has seen a former inmate win for someone else before with Silver Birch but he looks pretty safe this time. On his current rating he might just squeak in but he provided Aintree’s fence builders with overtime when standing off way too far at The Chair in the Bechers Chase in November.Kinondo Kwetu 8, 10st 1lb, OR: 144
Gunalt Partnership, Sam England
Odds: 100/1
A good ground/summer chaser who has, not surprisingly, stayed at home this winter. He won his first five starts over fences, is a good traveller but was let down by his jumping in the Summer Cup at Uttoxeter. If Aintree, where he has won twice on the Mildmay course, over-waters or it rains it will diminish any chance he has. Realistically you’re not going to end up holidaying in Kinondo Kwetu if you back him.Fakir d’Alene (FR), 9, 10st, OR: 143
Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Brought down at the first in the 2022 Irish National - going well at the time. Missed the next season and brought down again, at the fifth, at Leopardstown at Christmas and pulled up since. You can either take the view that he is too unlucky to win a National or that he is due so much luck he could just go and win one. Former looks more likely.Ontheropes (IRE) 10, 10st, OR: 143
Cheveley Park Stud, W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Munster National winner from 2021 which was his only win from 11 starts over fences. Has only run six times since in what, one presumes, must have been an injury plagued career. In fact he has plummeted down the handicap to the extent that he is now not certain to make the cut. Has pulled up on both starts this season but, to be fair, he was not the only potential National type to do that in the Thyestes last time out. Mullins has better shots than this one.Shakem Up’arry (IRE) 10, 10st, OR: 143
Mr Harry Redknapp, Ben Pauling
Odds: 40/1
Capable but a hard horse to win with and needs everything to fall his way. Named after his owner, he finally landed him a decent prize when winning a £57,000 two and a half mile chase at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day. In the old days Aintree might have sparked something in a horse like this but that is probably less likely these days with the fences not much more challenging than an upturned dandy brush. Probably far enough down the handicap for owner to book in for a football match that dayAmirite (IRE) 8, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Patrick Hale, Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Won his last start over hurdles and first over fences but, since, he has not managed to get his head in front. However ran well in a competitive handicap at Leopardstown at Christmas and his trainer knows what it takes. Trip probably less of a problem than getting into the race itself.Angels Dawn (IRE) 9, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Mr Alfred Sweetnam, S. Curling, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Trainer is son of one of Europe’s most esteemed equine artists Peter Curling - how he would like to paint this one jumping the last in front in the National. Won last year’s Kim Muir at Cheltenham before finishing a remote sixth and last behind I Am Maximus in Irish National when he did not jump with much fluency. Maybe he was feeling the effects of a hard race three weeks before.Annual Invictus (IRE) 9, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Mr Thomas Michael Smith, Chris Gordon
Odds: 50/1
A good old chaser trained near Winchester who wins his fair share of races. Versatile in that he flits between hurdles and fences and hung on by a nose to win the Great Yorkshire Chase with the trainer’s conditional jockey son Freddie Gordon on. Could have done with winning it by a bit further as he is another who is borderline not to make the cut the new look runners-lite National.Diol Ker (FR) 10, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Former Leinster National winner on the heavy for Noel Meade though his career best was finishing second to Real Steel in a big Leopardstown handicap the Christmas before last. Has since moved to Gordon Elliott but has yet to be placed for him. I have no idea what his name means, whether it’s gaelic or gallic, or an anagram but can’t see anyone having to engrave it on the Grand National trophy or, even, put it in the racecard.Riaan (IRE) 7, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Philip J. Reynolds Gordon Elliott Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Won a couple of hurdles last season but pulled up when sent over to Cheltenham for the Coral Cup. Looked a natural winning on his first start over fences at Wexford and appears to go well when fresh. Ran a good second to Heart Wood in a big handicap at Dublin Racing Festival but really needed to win it to get bumped up the handicap just to get into National. Yet to go three miles over fences so I’m thinking another year maybe, not this one.Sail Away (FR) 8, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Mr and Mrs J. D. Cotton, Dan Skelton
Odds: 66/1
Another grey bidding to become the first to win since Neptune Collonges in 2012. They start ‘em young in France and this one finished five and a half lengths behind Fastorslow in a three-year-old chase at Auteuil. Of course that close to the winner now and you’d be Gold Cup material. Trailed round in four runner Betfair Ascot Chase to pick up fourth prize-money recently.Samcro (IRE) 12, 9st 13lb, OR: 142
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 66/1
Went to Cheltenham as the odds-on favourite for the Ballymore in 2018 hailed as the second coming of Arkle. Duly delivered that one but, our fault not his, ultimately he was over-hyped and did not build on it. He did return to win the Marsh in a battle royale two years later. Ran a distant 11th in Noble Yeats’s National and has been smashing it up in point-to-points since.Macs Charm (IRE) 9, 9st 12lb, OR: 141
Macs Charm Syndicate, Colm A. Murphy, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Relatively inexperienced chaser who has had something of a curate’s egg of season - pulled up first two starts but ran a creditable fifth in the Troytown not beaten too far. That was more like it and might be a sign that he’s coming back to form but, alas, you need form more than you need charm.Cepage (FR) 12, 9st 11lb, OR: 140
The Bellamy Partnership, Venetia Williams
Odds: 150/1
An old boy these days who used to race almost exclusively at Cheltenham so he can’t be too bad. His greatest moment was leading at the second last in the December Gold Cup only to be beaten by Frodon in 2018. Won a veterans chase back at Cheltenham earlier this season with cheekpieces fitted. Two and a half miles looks like his optimum trip.Dunboyne (IRE) 9, 9 st 11lb, OR: 140
S. P. O’Connor, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Bit of a character who has his own ideas about the game having refused to race on one occasion. Seemed pretty disinterested in the National last year when pulled up setting out on the second circuit having trailed round the first lap. But ok on his day as fourth in the Troytown proved and ran well in National trial until stopped like he was shot going to the last. I dare say no one more pleased he won’t make the cut than Dunboyne himself.Iron Bridge (IRE) 8, 9 st 11lb, OR: 140
Hemmings Racing, Jonjo O’Neill
Odds: 66/1
Plugged on for a distant second in the Welsh National which Nassalam turned into a one-horse race but credit to him for keeping going in the face of such a lost cause. Third in Haydock’s National trial. Could still be a bit unexposed as a staying chaser. Likes a good bit of cut in the ground and his late owner liked having runners in the National but might have to settle for Midlands or Scottish as unlikely to make cut this year.Tullybeg (IRE) 9, 9st 11lb OR: 140
Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
Unlikely to get in at this stage, he is a good ground horse so unable to put in a personal best in time for the weights on February 20 given the weather. Won the Mayo National - that is the Irish county not something to put on your salad, at Ballinrobe last spring. That is not even over three miles. Has been campaigned as if two and a half miles is his trip so stamina not guaranteed for the real thing.Famous Bridge (IRE) 8, 9st 10lb, OR: 139
Hemmings Racing, Nicky Richards
Odds: 40/1
Trainer’s late dad was a great National trainer winning it with Lucius and Hallo Dandy and countless placed horses. Late owner also won it a few times. A consistent sort who wins his races. Had been in good form and improving this season with two wins at Haydock including the Tommy Whittle on the heavy. Pulled up last time on good ground, his best efforts have always been in the mud. Needs the weather on his side.Ashtown Lad (IRE) 10, 9st 9lb, OR: 138
Darren & Annaley Yates, Dan Skelton
Odds: 66/1
Has won over the course which is a big plus but pulled up in last year’s Topham, he will struggle to make the cut. Dan Skelton has the most entries of any British trainer.Frontal Assault (IRE) 9, 9st 9lb, OR: 138
Gigginstown House Stud, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 100/1
An adequate description of the trainer’s 26 entries for the race. Not a serial winner by any stretch of the imagination. Last got his head in front in October 22 and is 1 from 16 over fences. I think Elliott and Gigginstown will have better shots this year than this nine-year-old. Plenty of stamina which probably equates to slow and would want a bit of mud if only to steady others down. Beaten 85 lengths in his National trial.Mister Coffey (FR) 9, 9st 9lb, OR: 138
Lady Bamford & Alice Bamford, Nicky Henderson
Odds: 100/1
Eighth last year after a bold jumping display that saw him surge 10 lengths clear crossing the Melling Road for the last time very briefly giving the impression he might lift Nicky Henderson’s National hoodoo. The fact that he is still yet to win a steeplechase is probably up there with the trainer’s greatest frustrations and, even more frustratingly, off his current mark Lady Bamford’s jumper is very doubtful to get into the race.Good Boy Bobby (IRE) 11, 9st 8lb, OR 137
Dash Grange Stud, Nigel Twiston-Davies
Odds: 100/1
Trainer had an amazing run in the National around Earth Summit winning in 1998 and Bindaree in 2002 with horses like Beau and Young Hustler. Not so much recently and this old boy is unlikely to add to his laurels. Nevertheless he has been in good form this season winning a couple of veterans chases.Tommie Beau (IRE) 9, 9st 7lb, OR: 136
Simon & Christine Prout, Seamus Mullins
Odds: 66/1
This would be a rare Grade One track outing for this one - he has spent most of his life on the Plumpton, Fontwell, Fakenham, Newton Abbot circuit although he has got a Durham National under his belt so trip probably not too much of problem.Revels Hill (IRE) 9, 9st 6lbs, OR: 135
Noel Fehily Racing Syndicates-Revels Hil, Harry Fry
Odds: 100/1
Good third to Kitty’s Light in Bet365 Gold Cup last April. These days seems to need three and a half miles to merely warm up so stamina not in question but ability is. On his current rating he is unlikely to get in.Where It All Began (IRE) 8, 9st 6lbs, OR: 135
Patrick & Scott Bryceland, McNeill Family, Gordon Elliott, Ireland
Odds: 50/1
Novice chaser who broke his duck over fences in spectacular style winning the Punchestown Grand National trial, sweeping past the favourite like he was standing still, in February. Lightly raced and may have improved but improving in small increments was no good to him.Moroder (IRE) 10, 9st 2lbs, OR: 131
Mrs Ann Leftley, Seamus Mullins
Odds: 150/1
Once won four races in a row and second behind Kitty’s Light in Bet365 Gold Cup last spring means stamina is not a problem but class is. Twice pulled up this season and finished last on two subsequent starts. Very unlikely to make the cut.Full Back (FR) 9, 9st 9lbs, OR: 130
Mr Ashley Head, Gary Moore
Odds: 200/1
Sussex trainer would not be a regular National man and off his current rating Full Back is unlikely to get in. Was thrown in the deep end a bit in the Fleur De Lys Chase against L’Homme Presse and Protektorat at Lingfield recently but fell five out. Biggest moment was winning a three and a quarter mile chase at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day 2022.Minella Trump (IRE) 10, 9st 1lb, OR: 130
Mr T. G. Leslie, Donald McCain
Odds: 66/1
A 50-1 shot in last year’s National despite being trained by a McCain. There were question marks about his stamina which were ultimately answered but he gave his young jockey a great ride in the thick of the action for a long way before tiring to finish 15th of the 17 to complete the courts. He gets three miles but four and a quarter, I don’t think so and unlikely that we will get another chance to find out this year.
