Expert Grand National Tips: Top Mare and 50/1 Longshot Highlighted

The Randox Grand National at Aintree is the season’s most watched betting fixture. A final field of 34 runners is set for the 4pm race on Saturday 11 April.

Expert selections and contenders

Filmogaz.com has gathered tips from racing writers, presenters and former trainers. Their lists cover leading hopes and each-way prospects for the big race.

Jagwar

Jagwar is trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero. Mark Walsh rides the seven-year-old for owner JP McManus.

He finished second in the Ultima at Cheltenham over 3m 1f. Pundits say the horse should handle the Aintree trip well.

Panic Attack

Panic Attack is trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Harry Skelton. Experts highlighted her as a strong mare contender.

Commentators noted her low weight and mix of speed and stamina. Some consider her this race’s Top Mare prospect.

Grangeclare West

Willie Mullins prepares Grangeclare West, with Patrick Mullins to ride. He finished third in last year’s renewal.

He took the Bobbyjo Chase in February. That win is viewed as an ideal prep for Aintree.

I Am Maximus

I Am Maximus runs for Willie Mullins with Paul Townend up. He won two years ago and placed second last year.

Commentators described him as a proven Grade One performer. He remains a clear class reference in the line-up.

Iroko

Iroko is trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero and ridden by Jonjo O’Neill Jr. He finished fourth in last year’s race.

He showed good late speed when fit. A recent tracheal wash issue was mentioned but may now be resolved.

Monty’s Star

Henry de Bromhead trains Monty’s Star, with Darragh O’Keeffe aboard. He ran fourth in last year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Analysts say he stays the trip well and arrives here fresh. He carries Grade One form that appeals to tipsters.

Johnnywho

Johnnywho is trained by Jonjo and AJ O’Neill and ridden by Richie McLernon. He won the Ultima at Cheltenham on his last start.

He had a schooling run over the Grand National fences in the Grand Sefton. One expert recommended him for each-way interest at 10st 4lb.

Each-way picks and outsiders

Several experts named value runners for each-way backing. Names mentioned include Oscars Brother and Spanish Harlem.

• Oscars Brother — trainer Connor King, jockey Daniel King.
• Spanish Harlem — trained by Willie Mullins, ridden by Brian Hayes. Jumping has been inconsistent.
• Stellar Story — trained by Gordon Elliott, ridden by Robbie Dunne. Listed as an each-way option.
• Lecky Watson — Willie Mullins-trained, Sean O’Keeffe to ride. Also cited for each-way play.

Golfer and owner Lee Westwood offered a five-horse shortlist. His names were Iroko, Panic Attack, Haiti Couleurs, Captain Cody and Banbridge.

Punters may also search for a surprise result. Some will target a 50/1 longshot among the outsiders.

Coverage and final notes

The Grand National remains a major betting and spectating event. Filmogaz.com will carry post-race analysis and expert reaction.

Enjoy the racing and gamble responsibly. Good luck to those backing the selections.