Architect Tips has picked out four tips covering the ITV races at Aintree this Saturday.
13:32 Aintree
With conditions set to be testing at Aintree, it could be worth sticking with course specialist RICHMOND LAKE, who had the option of running in the Becher Chase on this card but instead lines up here as he bids to defend his title.
The eight-year-old is back on the same mark as when winning this race twelve months ago by 14 lengths and shaped very well after seven months off when fourth in last month’s Grand Sefton over the National fences.
He tends to save his best for around this time of year, with his record in November/December reading form figures of 1316114. With track, trip, and conditions all up his street, Donald McCain’s charge should be primed to defend his crown.
14:07 Aintree
The more rain, the more this will play into the hands of strong stayer IRON BRIDGE, who finished second in last season’s Welsh National and should be spot on for fitness after shaping encouragingly when third on his return at Carlisle last month.
The eight-year-old's biggest asset is his jumping, and he seems just the type of horse who will take well to these fences. He’s 6lb lower than when runner-up in that Welsh National, and if this race turns into a slog, not many horses will be finishing better than him.
14:07 Aintree
MAJOR DUNDEE, who carries the same ownership as Iron Bridge, who does well over the National fences, is a very interesting participant on his debut over these obstacles.
Alan King’s nine-year-old is only 2lb higher than when he won last year’s Midlands National with plenty in hand. As well as that, he’s 2lb lower than when third in the 2023 Scottish Grand National, so he’s evidently well treated.
He should be much fitter from his comeback run at Bangor, and Sam Twiston-Davies is an interesting jockey booking, given his good record in this race. If he takes to these obstacles, there’s no reason why this mud lover cannot make a serious impact.
15:17 Aintree
THE LORD MAID has made a positive start to her hurdle career, winning by eight lengths on her debut in this sphere on heavy ground back in February before following up on her stable debut for Tom Lacey at Southwell.
She reappeared last month with a fine second at Warwick on handicap debut when tasked with carrying top weight. That was a promising return to action, and she’s sure to improve with that run under her belt. I like her chances.
The Lord Maid, 0.5 pts E/W, 14/1
