Fran Berry’s Expert Tips for Boylesports Irish Grand National
Fran Berry has highlighted his picks ahead of the Boylesports Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Monday. His notes separate the field into two clear camps. The selections include established handicappers and promising novice chasers.
UK raiders to watch
Last year Haiti Couleurs provided a rare victory for the raiding side. That success ended a long drought for UK challengers. Horses arriving from the Cheltenham meeting include The Jukebox Kid, One Big Bang and Monbeg Genius.
The Jukebox Kid is showing clear improvement. One Big Bang and Monbeg Genius both ran well at Prestbury Park. Their recent form makes them dangerous in the big-field test.
Unexposed novice chasers
Novice chasers must have completed four runs over fences to qualify. Several contenders meet that mark and arrive with upward profiles. One notable example is Soldier In Milan.
Soldier In Milan beat Kiss Will at Punchestown in February. He then finished fourth behind C’Est Ta Chance at Thurles in early March. At seven years old he looks progressive and suited by extra distance.
Ride and ownership angles
Connections and jockey choices matter in this one. Paul Townend has taken the ride on Kiss Will for Team Mullins. Joystick also represents the yard and warrants respect.
JP McManus has five declared runners. Mark Walsh, the outgoing first jockey, has yet to land an Irish National. He has selected Showurappreciation for the ride. Harry Cobden is named to ride Goraibhmaithagat.
Top selection and form pointers
Showurappreciation is the tip. He carries 10st 7lb. The horse arrives on a four-timer and may progress with extra trips.
Trainer Jonathan Sweeney operates at a strong strike-rate. That form profile raises the horse’s claims in a competitive renewal. Odds place him close to Better Times Ahead and Goraibhmaithagat.
Track and conditions
Keep an eye on the weather before the race. The forecast currently looks dry and windy. Fairyhouse can favour speed, even at longer distances, when it rides quick.
These factors could influence selection and betting strategy. Monitor ground reports in the final hours.
Notes on tips and responsible wagering
Filmogaz.com publishes these expert tips from Fran Berry to inform readers. Betting advice is for over-18s only. Stake responsibly and wager only what you can afford to lose.
If you are concerned about gambling, call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133. Further support is at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org.
