Dermot McLoughlin has turned the Irish Grand National into a bookies’ benefit over the last two years, saddling winners at 150-1 (Freewheelin Dylan) and 40-1. While the local trainer has been robbed of a chance to record an unprecedented treble by a late injury to last year’s winner, Lord Lariat, Monday’s feature at Fairyhouse is still a race punters should approach with considerable caution.
A market on the eventual favourite could be a lively betting heat in its own right, with Thedevilscoachman, Panda Boy, Angels Dawn and Stumptown all certain to attract support as a result of their form, connections or both. Stumptown, who was edged out late on by Angels Dawn in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham last month, is possibly the pick of those at Monday’s weights, with Angels Dawn shouldering a 9lb penalty.
