Two of the Oddschecker contingent explain who they are backing for this year's Grand National.
Grand National
Teague Calvin:
Rules state a horse must run over fences in the same season as the Grand National in order to run, so it was pleasing to see Sandy Thomson’s charge return at Newbury last month after a 364-day layoff following a wind-op.
Despite racing just once in the last year, he proved he was back in good shape, finishing a solid third with the Aintree showpiece clearly the main target. Seeyouatmidnight remains an extremely accomplished chaser on his day, as can be seen from past performances; a 12-length victory over the talented Bristol De Mai, plus a win over National favourite Blaklion at Cheltenham on New Years Day two years ago.
An impressive third place finish in the Scottish Grand National at Ayr the season before last proves he can thrive in a big field over a long distance, so at 16/1 the ten-year-old is the one I am siding with.
Sam Eaton:
Richard Hobson’s horse jumped into trouble in last year’s Grand National before pulling up with four fences left to jump. The impressive James Bowen will take the ride this year, hoping to emulate his performance at Cheltenham last month.
Shantou Flyer finished second by a neck behind Coo Star Sivola in the Ultima Handicap Chase, which was the horse's 4th second place finish in a row. There were concerns he’s struggled going to 3m+ lately, but they were put to bed by the Cheltenham run. The weather concerns won’t be a worry at all for him.
Recent form and the booking of Shantou Flyer make Richard Hobon’s horse a mouth watering prospect at 40/1.
