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2025 Grand National: Guide to Runners and Jump Ratings
(Odds correct as of Monday, 24th March 2025)
We’re going to need every possible clue in our quest to pinpoint the winner of the Randox Grand National at Aintree on Saturday, 5 April. And this year, for the first time, punters have an extra tool at their disposal — the RaceiQ Jump Index — to help separate the contenders from the pretenders in the world’s most demanding jumps race.
Data Driven
This innovative metric provides a data-driven assessment of a horse’s jumping ability across its career. By analysing a horse’s efficiency, speed, and fluency over fences, the RaceiQ Index offers a comparative score benchmarked against thousands of jumps logged in the RaceiQ database over the past few years.
Each horse is awarded a score out of ten, providing a clear and objective measure of how effectively it travels from one fence to the next. What makes this particularly useful is that it allows for meaningful comparisons between horses who may never have faced each other, regardless of differences in course layout, ground conditions, or race distance.
Jumping Ability
A score of seven (cue your best Len Goodman impression) represents an average level of jumping ability. Anything above that is a strong indicator of a horse’s potential to handle the unique demands of Aintree’s fences — where fluency and consistency can make all the difference between glory and heartbreak.
So, as the field narrows and attention turns to form, stamina and suitability for the course, the RaceiQ Jump Index adds a fascinating new layer to the puzzle — just in time for the sport’s biggest and boldest challenge.
Speed, Stamina & Bravery
Of course, while sound jumping is a vital asset, it’s far from the only ingredient needed to conquer the Grand National — especially in the modern era. Since safety-driven course modifications were introduced in the 21st century, Aintree’s famous fences have become more forgiving, resulting in a higher completion rate. In fact, 21 of the 32 runners in last year’s race made it to the finish without incident.
But to land a Grand National, a horse must bring much more to the table than just clean jumping. Speed, stamina, bravery, a favourable weight in the handicap — and let’s not forget a touch of luck — are all crucial components of success over the four-mile-plus marathon.
Maximum Field
This year, a maximum field of 34 runners will be permitted, with the final declarations due at 10am on Thursday, 3 April. In the meantime, below is a series of pen portraits of the top 44 contenders still in the mix, complete with their RaceiQ Jump Index scores to shed light on each horse’s jumping prowess.
These profiles will continue to evolve in the lead-up to the big day, taking into account confirmed jockey bookings, going conditions, and any headgear changes that may be declared.
It’s worth noting that a few potential Grand National runners — including Appreciate It, Capodanno, Celebre D’Allen, Minella Crooner, Minella Drama, Shakem Up’Arry and Twig — also hold entries for the Topham Chase, which takes place over one circuit of the National course on Friday, 4 April. Their final target may not be confirmed until closer to race day.
MINELLA COCOONER
Tends to hit top form each spring, as he did this time last year when landing the bet365 Gold Cup, following a close third behind Intense Raffles in the Irish Grand National. Produced a solid trial effort at Fairyhouse last time out and appears adaptable when it comes to ground conditions.
It’s also worth noting his impressive pedigree: his sire, Flemensfirth, has produced three Grand National runners-up — King Johns Castle, The Last Samuri, and Magic Of Light. His grandsire, Old Vic, was responsible for two National winners, Comply Or Die and Don’t Push It, as well as a pair of runners-up. And his great-grandsire, Roselier, has strong Aintree credentials too, having sired notable performers such as Bindaree, Royal Athlete, Suny Bay, and Moorcroft Boy.
INTENSE RAFFLES
Captured a gruelling Irish Grand National on heavy ground last year and strengthened his Aintree credentials with a close second to Nick Rockett at Fairyhouse last time out, despite racing on unfavourable terms – he’s now 15lb better off with that rival.
His claims are clear for all to see, though there are a couple of slight reservations: he tends to prefer making the running or racing prominently, and the vast majority of his form has come on soft or heavy going.
That said, he’s a fluent and accurate jumper with proven stamina, and he unquestionably warrants a place on any Grand National shortlist.
MEETINGOFTHEWATERS
Jumped brilliantly and travelled strongly for much of the race last year before fading late on to finish seventh. His stamina appeared to be tested by the demanding conditions, not helped by what had been a fairly busy campaign.
This time around, he arrives fresher following a much lighter season, and it would be no surprise to see him produce another bold showing from a favourable mark.
He was one of our ante-post selections when the weights were revealed back in February, and he remains very much on my radar.
PERCEVAL LEGALLOIS
The form of the Paddy Power Chase victory he enjoyed over Christmas has held up well, and he followed that with a strong performance in a staying hurdle at the Dublin Racing Festival – he’s been unfortunate not to have secured a win at that meeting in each of the past three years.
He’s yet to race beyond three miles and must defy a career-high mark, but demands serious consideration given the formidable trainer-owner partnership that recently celebrated success in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
MONBEG GENIUS
Ended a two-year losing streak with an impressive victory at Uttoxeter last time out, having previously finished a creditable fourth in the Welsh Grand National. That return to form couldn’t have come at a better time, as he required a strong performance to stand any chance of making the cut here – with the weights published just three days later.
His close third behind Corach Rambler and Fastorslow at the Cheltenham Festival two years ago still stands out, and he brings solid staying credentials to the table.
STUMPTOWN
Has established himself as a cross-country specialist this season and lines up off the same mark as when staying on strongly to land victory at the Cheltenham Festival earlier this month.
Much will hinge on whether the unique demands of Aintree play to his strengths in the same way, and whether he’s had sufficient time to recover with just 24 days since his last run.
MINELLA INDO
The 2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup hero may not have visited the winner’s enclosure often since that crowning moment, but he showed he still has plenty to offer with a tremendous run to finish third in last year’s Grand National. On that occasion, he stayed on gamely in testing conditions and now returns to Aintree with a 9lb pull at the weights compared to last year’s winner, I Am Maximus — a potentially significant advantage.
Now aged 12, he’s certainly in the veteran stage of his career, but he’s been carefully campaigned and remains relatively unexposed for his age, with just a handful of runs in recent seasons. His connections have clearly had this race in mind for some time, keeping him fresh and well-prepared for another crack at the famous fences.
It’s true that no 12-year-old has won the Grand National since Amberleigh House triumphed under Ginger McCain’s guidance in 2004, but it’s equally fair to say that few horses of this vintage bring the same class and calibre to the table. His proven stamina, jumping ability and experience in top-level staying chases make him a genuine contender once again — and if he reproduces last year’s effort, he could well go two places better.
I AM MAXIMUS
Produced a stunning performance to land last year’s Grand National, following on from his victory in the Irish Grand National the season before – a rare and impressive double that underlines his stamina and class over marathon trips.
While his two runs at the highest level this season have been below par on paper, there’s little cause for concern. Both outings came in top-tier company, and it’s clear his campaign has been geared entirely around a return to Aintree, where he excelled so memorably 12 months ago.
That said, this year’s assignment comes with fresh challenges. He returns as the defending champion but is now tasked with shouldering top weight, rated 8lb higher than last year. Carrying such a burden over 4 miles and 2½ furlongs is no small ask, particularly in a race as gruelling as the Grand National.
Questions also linger over his jumping technique, which can at times be scruffy, and there have been occasional murmurs about his temperament, especially when things don’t go entirely to plan mid-race. However, none of that stopped him from powering through the field and finishing with authority last year, showcasing both determination and staying power in abundance.
If he can replicate that form under a tougher weight and a sharper spotlight, he has every chance of etching his name into the history books as a back-to-back Grand National winner – a feat last achieved by Tiger Roll in 2019. Despite the added pressure and handicapping, he remains one of the classiest stayers in the field and demands the utmost respect.
IROKO
While his sole victory over fences came in a modest five-runner novice chase at Warwick some 16 months ago, that statistic doesn’t do justice to the overall quality of his performances. He’s run several highly creditable races in defeat, notably when finishing runner-up to Inothewayurthinkin in a Grade One novice chase over three miles at last year’s Grand National meeting – form that looks increasingly strong given what that rival has gone on to achieve.
Connections were transparent early on this season in declaring the Grand National as his major objective – a decision that, in hindsight, may have drawn more attention than they would have liked. As a result, some of his subsequent performances have been closely scrutinised, with critics quick to question his credentials based on this season’s form alone. However, his campaign appears to have been carefully managed with the long-term goal in mind, and his best may yet be to come.
There are solid reasons to be optimistic. From a stamina perspective, his pedigree offers encouragement – his half-brother, who shares the same stable, stayed on well to finish third in the Devon National in testing conditions back in February, suggesting staying power runs in the family.
He has also proven his ability to handle the rough and tumble of a large-field handicap, having triumphed over hurdles at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival – a performance that showcased both composure and tactical awareness in a fiercely competitive environment.
Although his chase record lacks a standout victory, his consistency in high-class company, combined with his profile as a stayer, makes him an interesting outsider. If he takes to the Aintree fences and sees out the extended trip, he could well outrun his odds and give his connections plenty to dream about.
HEWICK
This remarkable £800 bargain buy has already far exceeded even the wildest expectations, carving out an extraordinary career at the highest level. His achievements on British soil alone are nothing short of exceptional, including a memorable victory in the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown in 2022, followed by a stunning triumph in the prestigious King George VI Chase at Kempton in 2023 – a race traditionally reserved for the very elite.
Despite his modest price tag, he has consistently mixed it with the best and proven himself more than capable in top-class company. He’s developed into a sound and reliable jumper, with a particularly nimble technique that should stand him in good stead over Aintree’s unique fences. Moreover, his recent performances suggest he now shapes like a thorough stayer, increasingly comfortable over extended distances – a key trait for tackling the Grand National’s gruelling four-mile-plus trip.
He returned to form with a confidence-boosting win over hurdles on his latest start, which should have served as the perfect prep run, sharpening him up without taking too much out of him. That outing confirmed that he retains both enthusiasm and ability – important qualities heading into such a demanding test.
Conditions will also play a key role in his chances. While he’s versatile, he’s undoubtedly at his best on a sounder surface. Good ground would significantly enhance his prospects, allowing him to travel more sweetly and conserve energy for the closing stages, where staying power becomes critical.
In a field packed with staying chasers and former festival winners, his profile stands out not only for his underdog origins but for the sheer class he’s shown at the top table. If he settles into a rhythm and handles the Aintree fences as expected, there’s every reason to believe this fairytale story could gain yet another extraordinary chapter.
VANILLIER
Put in a superb performance when finishing runner-up in the Grand National two years ago, showing tenacity and stamina in abundance. However, he failed to replicate that effort when attempting to go one better last year, never truly landing a blow and finishing well down the field.
More recently, he appears to have enjoyed something of a revival, particularly since the application of blinkers, which have seemingly sharpened him up. He looked back to something like his best with a dominant win in a cross-country race at Punchestown, travelling smoothly and finishing with authority. That was followed by a staying-on third behind stablemate Stumptown in the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham – a run that arguably deserves extra credit.
On that occasion, his rider momentarily veered onto the wrong course, costing valuable ground and momentum. Despite that mishap, he rallied strongly up the hill, underlining that the fire still burns bright and that his stamina remains a strong asset.
With proven form over the Aintree fences, a renewed spark from headgear, and clear staying credentials, he’s more than capable of making his presence felt. While not the most obvious contender at first glance, his recent resurgence and past exploits suggest he’s well worth a second look.
GRANGECLARE WEST
This lightly raced nine-year-old has yet to fully live up to his hefty £430,000 price tag, but he reminded everyone of his considerable potential with a career-best performance on his penultimate outing. That effort came in the Irish Gold Cup, where he finished a gallant runner-up to Galopin Des Champs, one of the most formidable staying chasers in training. The form was further boosted by Fact To File and Inothewayurthinkin filling the next two places — both of whom have gone on to enhance their reputations at the highest level.
That run suggested he belongs in elite company and hinted that there could be more to come as he matures. However, consistency remains a concern. He failed to back up that excellent performance when returning to action at Navan last time, where he was unable to land a blow and ran well below expectations.
Whether that was simply an off day or a sign of his unpredictable nature is up for debate, but he clearly possesses raw ability and has the engine to make an impact when everything clicks. If he can rediscover the spark he showed at Leopardstown, he could well outrun his odds — but he arrives with something to prove and will need to produce one of his better efforts to feature in the finish.
HYLAND
A talented staying hurdler who has made a solid start to life over fences, posting a respectable first season in novice company. However, this represents a significant step up in both class and intensity, and the unique demands of the Grand National could prove a stark contrast to the small-field novice chases he’s been contesting thus far.
His most recent outing saw him finish a well-beaten second in a Kempton handicap, where he was ridden with different tactics — unusually held up rather than allowed to bowl along in front, as is typically his style. Whether that change suited him is up for debate, but it may have been an experiment ahead of a sterner test like Aintree.
He’s trained by the legendary Nicky Henderson, a six-time champion trainer whose glittering CV includes almost every major prize in National Hunt racing — with the notable exception of the Grand National, a race that has famously eluded him since taking out his licence back in 1978.
While this horse remains unexposed and is clearly open to further improvement, he’ll need to progress again and adapt quickly to the hustle and bustle of a 34-runner marathon over the sport’s most testing fences. That said, with Henderson pulling the strings, he’s not one to dismiss entirely.
SENIOR CHIEF
Failed to show his true colours when pulled up in last year’s Irish Grand National, but returned to form in fine style when landing a competitive contest at Cheltenham in October. That victory suggested he was back on track, though his next outing at Newbury was less convincing, with his jumping letting him down on the day.
His most recent run over hurdles looked more like a prep outing than a serious target, serving as a fitness booster ahead of this much bigger assignment. While his overall profile remains unexposed over staying trips, which offers room for optimism, the handicapper hasn’t been particularly kind, leaving him with a stiff enough mark for a race of this nature.
That said, if he can settle into a rhythm and brush up his jumping, there’s potential for him to outrun expectations – particularly given his proven ability in competitive company and the suggestion that there’s more to come over marathon distances.
CAPODANNO
Has failed to make an impression in the last two runnings of the Grand National, and there’s little in his recent form to suggest a dramatic turnaround this time around – although he did run respectably behind Nick Rockett and Intense Raffles on his latest outing.
That said, it’s notable that his connections are sticking with the National route when they might easily have opted for less demanding targets, which hints at a degree of confidence in his ability to handle the challenge.
He also holds an entry in the Topham Chase, run over a shorter trip on the same course, and it remains to be seen which option he’ll take. Either way, he’ll need to find something extra to feature prominently in a race of this calibre.
NICK ROCKETT
A thoroughly likeable and consistent performer who comes into the race in excellent form. However, there are clear concerns about whether he’s well enough treated by the handicapper, and stamina for the extended Grand National trip is far from assured.
He did manage to narrowly get the better of Intense Raffles on his latest start, but now finds himself 15lb worse off with that rival — a significant turnaround, particularly given that Intense Raffles appears the more proven stayer.
While his attitude and recent form make him easy to admire, the combination of a tougher mark and uncertainty over the distance raises doubts about his chances of staying competitive in the closing stages at Aintree.
THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE
Showed real determination when finishing fourth in the Scottish Grand National two years ago and looked right back to his best when narrowly denied at Ascot on his most recent outing, going down by only a nose in a driving finish.
Crucially, that performance came after the Grand National weights were released, meaning he lines up at 2lb well-in – a potentially valuable edge in a race where every pound counts.
He represents a multiple champion trainer renowned for producing big performances on the biggest stages, often finding improvement when it matters most. With solid staying form already in the book and a handy weight to carry, he could easily prove a lively outsider for a yard well versed in spring surprises.
KANDOO KID
Adapted impressively to the National fences when finishing a close third in last year’s Topham Chase, and made a winning seasonal reappearance with a superb victory in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury — a performance that firmly established his credentials as a top-class staying chaser.
He was unable to reproduce that form when returning to Newbury over a shorter distance last time out, but that effort appeared to be more of a pipe-opener than a serious test, likely aimed at keeping him fresh ahead of his primary target.
Still relatively unexposed over marathon trips, the grey has been campaigned lightly this season, clearly with the Grand National in mind for some time. With experience over the fences, proven class in big handicaps, and stamina yet to be fully explored, he shapes as a fascinating contender who could well take a major hand if he stays the trip.
THREE CARD BRAG
An intriguing contender stepping up markedly in trip, which could well bring about further improvement. This second-season novice has already shown glimpses of real quality and boasts a profile that suggests staying power is in his blood – no surprise given that several of his siblings have excelled over longer distances.
He advertised his potential when winning a beginners’ chase at Navan in January, comfortably accounting for Now Is The Hour, who was running a big race in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham before coming to grief two out. That rival was rated 139, while Three Card Brag competes here off a mark of 146, which looks fair given his overall form.
Most recently, he finished third in a tactical Grade Two at Navan – a race that didn’t play to his strengths. He didn’t jump with his usual fluency that day, but it’s worth forgiving that performance in light of the muddling pace and track position.
This step up to the extreme test of the Grand National could be just what he needs to bring out his best. With a touch of class, untapped stamina and more to offer over fences, he’s a lively outsider who could run a big race if taking to the demands of Aintree.
BEAUPORT
Jump Index Score: 6.9 Odds: 40-1
A relentless stayer, he showcased his stamina with a commanding victory in the Midlands National and followed up with a wide-margin success at Ascot in November. However, the handicapper hasn’t missed his resurgence, and he now faces a stiff challenge from a much higher mark. Needs another career-best to feature here.
MINELLA DRAMA
Jump Index Score: 6.9 Odds: 150-1
Boasts a fine record on the Mildmay Course, including a win in the Old Roan Chase back in October. He’s been campaigned mainly over shorter distances, but there’s stamina in his bloodline, and his connections know what it takes in this race. Might outrun big odds, though he’s also entered in the Topham Chase.
CONFLATED
Jump Index Score: 7.0 Odds: 100-1
A former Irish Gold Cup winner who’s not quite the force he once was and faces a real test of stamina here. That said, he shaped better than the result suggested over an inadequate trip at Cheltenham last time and has respectable form at this meeting, albeit over the Mildmay fences. Could be one for a bold run before tiring late on.
DUFFLE COAT
Jump Index Score: 6.7 Odds: 100-1
Burst onto the scene with four straight wins over hurdles but has struggled for consistency since, with just one win from his last 27 starts. Still, he’s shown glimpses of ability, notably when second in the Galway Plate and again at Cheltenham, where he might have been placed in the National Hunt Chase but for being brought down late on. A long shot, but not entirely without hope.
BROADWAY BOY
Jump Index Score: 7.2 Odds: 66-1
Caught the eye when chasing home Kandoo Kid in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury, where he might have gone close but for a costly mistake four out. Unfortunately, his two subsequent runs have been disappointing, and he arrives with questions to answer. A talented type on his day, but form has tailed off at the wrong time.
BRAVEMANSGAME
Jump Index Score: 7.0 Odds: 40-1
A high-class performer at his peak and once regarded as one of the leading staying chasers in Britain. However, his form has gradually declined over the past two seasons, and even his once-reliable jumping hasn’t been as sharp. If he were to bounce back, his raw ability could carry him a long way — but there remains a major doubt over his stamina for a test as extreme as this.
L’HOMME PRESSE
Jump Index Score: 7.9 Odds: 50-1
A smart and consistent chaser with nine wins from 18 starts, including at Grade One level. Yet he’s untested beyond three miles and has never shaped like a horse crying out for an extended stamina test. While his class could carry him into contention for a long way, serious question marks remain over whether he’ll see out the trip.
HITMAN
Jump Index Score: 7.9 Odds: 125-1
Undoubtedly talented on his day, and likely to travel well for a good portion of the race. However, he has long held a reputation for being difficult to win with — his last victory came back in November 2022 — and his stamina is completely unproven over this sort of marathon trip. Difficult to recommend with any confidence.
TWIG
Jump Index Score: 7.1 Odds: 66-1
A consistent and likeable gelding who has largely been kept over hurdles this season, presumably with a view to protecting his chase handicap mark. That strategy hasn’t quite paid off, as his return to fences at Doncaster was underwhelming — he lacked fluency in his jumping despite ideal ground conditions. A tough task awaits against stronger, more convincing rivals.
ROI MAGE
Jump Index Score: 7.2 Odds: 100-1
Now a 13-year-old, he would be the most seasoned campaigner in the line-up if he sneaks in. Remarkably durable, with 60 career runs, and has run respectable races in the last two Nationals — finishing seventh in 2023 and ninth last year. While admirable in his consistency, it’s difficult to see him improving on those efforts at this stage of his career.
VELVET ELVIS
Jump Index Score: — (Recorded 4.3 at Aintree in 2024) Odds: 100-1
Posted a career-best when chasing home Nick Rockett in the Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park, showing real stamina and grit. However, he failed to back that up at Punchestown, and more importantly, he produced a tame effort in last year’s National, where he never looked comfortable. Needs to step up markedly to play a meaningful role here.
APPRECIATE IT
Jump Index Score: 7.4 Odds: 66-1
A brilliant winner of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 2021, but hasn’t quite lived up to that early promise over fences. He’s yet to win beyond 2m5f, and there’s little in his profile to suggest he’ll thrive over the extreme test of stamina posed by the Grand National. Classy on his day, but major stamina doubts linger.
ROYALE PAGAILLE
Jump Index Score: 6.8 Odds: 125-1
Best known for his exploits in the mud at Haydock, where he’s notched up some notable wins. However, now aged 11, his form appears to be on the wane and he arrives here looking vulnerable against younger, less exposed rivals. Faces a tough ask off his current mark.
STAY AWAY FAY
Jump Index Score: 7.1 Odds: 66-1
Made a big impression when winning the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle in 2023 and looked to have the makings of a top staying chaser. However, things haven’t gone to plan since, with setbacks including a dirty scope and breathing issues. Wind surgery over the summer hasn’t sparked a revival, but he’s well handicapped if he can bounce back to form. Did have Grey Dawning behind him on chasing debut. Bryony Frost takes the ride.
CHANTRY HOUSE
Jump Index Score: 7.3 Odds: 66-1
A classy operator on his day, but age and inconsistency seem to be catching up with him. His Cheltenham run last time was underwhelming, and his jumping let him down when pressure mounted. Trained by Nicky Henderson, who continues to chase that elusive Grand National win — but this veteran looks an unlikely candidate to end the drought.
COKO BEACH
Jump Index Score: 6.3 Odds: 100-1
A regular sight in the Grand National, but he’s struggled to make an impression in each of the past three renewals. Has failed to sparkle throughout the current campaign, though he is 11lb lower in the weights than last year. That alone offers a glimmer of hope, but it’s hard to be confident.
MR INCREDIBLE
Jump Index Score: 6.4 Odds: 150-1
Often better described as Mr Unpredictable, this talented but temperamental stayer has refused to race on multiple occasions and failed to complete in nine of his last 12 starts. Was fancied for the past two Nationals but unseated on both attempts. Capable when in the mood — but whether that mood appears at Aintree is anyone’s guess.
HORANTZAU D’AIRY
Jump Index Score: 7.5 Odds: 100-1
Placed in both the Kerry and Munster Nationals this season and has shown some admirable consistency. However, the recent sale for 50,000gns raises eyebrows — it’s unlikely that Willie Mullins and Rich Ricci would part with a genuine Grand National contender. Questions remain about both his stamina and current mark.
CELEBRE D’ALLEN
Jump Index Score: 6.6 Odds: 150-1
At 13, he would be attempting to break a century-old hoodoo — no horse of that age has won the National since 1923. Did win at Bangor earlier this season and has handled the Aintree fences well in the past, but his best form has come over shorter distances. Also holds an entry in the Topham Chase.
SHAKEM UP’ARRY
Jump Index Score: 7.5 Odds: 100-1
Gave owner Harry Redknapp a day to remember with victory at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival, but hasn’t managed to build on that success. Stamina is the major concern, with all his wins coming at 2m4f or shorter. Not an obvious candidate to relish the National test. Also entered in the Topham.
MINELLA CROONER
Jump Index Score: 5.7 Odds: 100-1
His record in Britain makes for grim reading — pulled up on all four appearances, including in last year’s Grand National. Pulled off a surprise win at Punchestown last spring but has shown very little since. Hard to make a case based on recent form.
IDAS BOY
Jump Index Score: 6.7 Odds: 150-1
Represents the Dozen Dreamers syndicate, but supporters will need plenty of imagination here. Not the most fluent jumper and failed to fire when reappearing over hurdles at Doncaster after a long break. Difficult to recommend in a race of this magnitude.
FIL DOR
Jump Index Score: 7.7 Odds: 80-1
A high-class performer over two miles, having won five of his six races at that trip, with his only other success coming in a two-runner affair over 2m6f. While talented, there’s little in his form or pedigree to suggest he’ll handle the extreme demands of the Grand National. A huge stamina leap is required, and this looks a step too far.
FONTAINE COLLONGES
Jump Index Score: 6.0 Odds: 100-1
Niece of 2012 Grand National hero Neptune Collonges, but the family link may be the only connection to success at Aintree. Looked promising when winning on seasonal debut at Haydock in November but has failed to build on that effort and appears to have gone off the boil. Others arrive with stronger claims.
QUICK WAVE
Jump Index Score: — (Recorded 6.7 at Newbury) Odds: 150-1
Returned from a lengthy two-year absence with a respectable run to finish sixth at Newbury, shaping better than the bare result suggests. However, this is a huge jump in class and intensity, and it’s asking a great deal for her to be competitive in such a demanding contest after so little recent racing.
