Take the Long route in the Randox Grand National.
The world’s greatest race has been dominated by Irish-trained horses in recent years and I think the trophy might be heading out of Liverpool docks again tonight.
Trainer Martin Brassil won the coveted Aintree prize 16 years ago with Numbersixvalverde and he’s got another ideal National horse on his hands with LONGHOUSE POET (5.15).
He ran a smashing trial for this race when landing the Theyestes Chase – won by both Numbersixvalverde and Hedgehunter before their National wins – at Gowran in January.
His runs over 3m1f, the longest trip he’s tackled to date, have both resulted in wins and his pedigree suggests this marathon distance could suit him even better. Have 2pts each-way at 16-1, with most bookies paying out on six places and Sky Bet stretching to seven.
The one I want on my side at bigger odds is DINGO DOLLAR (5.15).
He was only beaten three-quarters of a length in last season’s Scottish National when he got into a battle early enough.
The drying ground will be ideal for Sandy Thomson’s hope and he’s been running respectably this season. He should be spot on for today after three runs. Have 1pt each-way at 66-1.
Earlier on the card, DANS LE VENT (1.45) should have his perfect set-up in the EFT Construction Handicap Hurdle.
He loves to come from off a decent pace and he is unexposed over 3m. Evan Williams’ ace ran a cracker when runner-up at this meeting 12 months ago over 2m4f.
He proved he has no problem with this longer distance when successful at Haydock in November.
Things haven’t fallen his way since but this race should pan out much better. Have 2pts each-way at 12-1.
KILLER KANE (4.15) is another who should appreciate the likely strong pace in the Betway Handicap Chase.
He’s been on a roll in lesser races, winning at Kempton and Sandown.
This step up in grade should suit him as he travels like a class horse and he’s won his last two starts despite getting to the front way too soon.
This better class of race should allow jockey Brendan Powell to hang on to him for much longer and deliver him late on. Have 2pts each-way at 14-1.
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