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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Steve Jones

Value Scope: Steve Jones' racing tips for day one of Aintree's Grand National meeting

Take aim at the bookies with GUNSIGHT RIDGE (4.40) in the Close Brothers Red Rum Chase.

This contest might be named after the only three-times Grand National winner but its 2m distance is less than half of the world’s greatest race. That suits Olly Murphy’s runner perfectly. The track should also play to his strengths as its not easy to come from off the pace around the Mildmay course and he likes to force the gallop.

He chased home subsequent Grade 1 Cheltenham Festival winner L’Homme Presse at Exeter before seeing off Bun Doran at Sandown in the manner of a progressive young chaser. His third behind Dolos back at Sandown in February could be viewed as disappointing but he moved like the best horse before getting tired having gone off a bit too quick. Have 3pts each-way at 10-1, with Sky Bet paying out on six places.

The betting for the Jewson Anniversary 4yo Juvenile Hurdle looks a bit top-heavy to me. There must be some value further down and I think the Venetia Williams-trained FAUTINETTE (2.20) is a fascinating runner. She makes her British debut having not raced since stretching her unbeaten record to three in France last May.

Venetia Williams at Wincanton racecourse (Getty)

Her jumping was excellent and she certainly doesn’t lack pace. The switch to today’s better ground could also help and she gets the fillies’ 7lbs weight allowance. Have 1pt each-way at 20-1.

The ingredients you need for the Randox Foxhunters’ Chase is a sound jumper, who likes to race close to the pace, with a top amateur jockey booked to take the ride. Last year’s runner-up LATENIGHTPASS (4.05) fits the bill.

Gina Andrew’s mount had previously finished fourth at the Cheltenham Festival before last year’s excellent second. He’s had an easier prep in point-to-points this time. Have 2pts to win at 11-2

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