Over 500 million worldwide viewers are expected to tune into the world's most famous horse race, as up to 40 jockeys don their racing colours, jump 16 fences and the hope to win the £1million prize at the Grand National 2022. The legendary four-mile race first started in 1839 and was won by the aptly named 'Lottery' at odds of 5/1, while there have been winners as far out at 100/1.
However, it isn't just Saturday's main event which attracts enormous attention. Friday is Ladies Day at Aintree and more than 50,000 spectators are expected to descend on the racecourse for the first time in two years. Renowned for being a day to wow with stunning fashion choices, Friday still has seven top-class races for punters to get stuck into.
Racing starts at 13:45pm with a handicap hurdle, which will see 22 runners going to post and concludes at 17:15pm, which features 17 amateur jockeys take on a handicap hurdle. Some races have major favourites backed to emerge victorious and present little value when betting, but their remains plenty of great each-way tips eyed to perform on one of racing's biggest stages.
Read more: Grand National 2022: 'New mum' Snow Leopardess defying odds at 9/1 with three straight wins
Mellings Steeple Chase (15:30)
Though trainer Dan Skelton didn't have a winner at Cheltenham this year, results have picked up recently. He has saddled eight winners from the last 29 runners, an attractive looking 28 percent strike-rate - this includes Beakstown's Listed handicap chase win at Ayr.
Skelton's runner, Allmankind, sits at 9/1 in the Mellings Chase and is a value bet each-way.
Sefton Novices' Hurdle (16:40)
Crystal Glory has been given time to recover from his recent exploits at Haydock and the Charlie Doocey and Cathal Doocey horse has won each of its last two starts over hurdles.
Trained by Nicky Richards, Crystal Glory is the son of Fame And Glory a top-class middle-distance/stayer whose wins include include the Critérium de Saint-Cloud, Irish Derby, Tattersalls Gold Cup, Coronation Cup and Ascot Gold Cup, so keep an eye on his son.
Crystal Glory has placed first or second in each of his four outings and is 8/1 to win on Friday at Aintree.
Which finishing places will bookies pay out on?
Typically, bookies will pay out on three places each-way on the Mellings Steeple Chase (15:30) and four on the Sefton Novices' Hurdle (16:40).
In the Grand National, bookies usually pay out on up to five or even six places. However, with the other races, it depends on how many runners there are.
Fewer horses mean it is less likely more than three places will be paid out on. Before you place a bet, it should be clearly stated which places will count as an each-way winner.
Claim your Grand National free bet
Simply register with Betfred, place a £10 wager on any race at Aintree and you will be credited with £60 in free bets and bonuses*!
*18+, new UK customers only, T&Cs apply.
