Saturday 11th April 2015

2015 Gran National Day at Aintree, in my opinion last year’s race was the best renewal we’ve seen for a long time and the 2^nd placed horse Balthazar King can go one better this time around.

Trained by Philip Hobbs the National has been the aim all year unlike 2014 when the horse ran in and won the cross country event at Cheltenham. Jockey Richard Johnson also positioned the selection wide throughout last year’s National and I’ve read stats that suggest Balthazar King ran 25 lengths further than the winner Pineau De Re who is trained by our syndicate trainer Dr Richard Newland.

Richard Johnson won’t do that again this year whilst Balthazar King is best fresh and the going looks fine for him, he’s not the biggest price at 12-1 but with six places on offer with Bet Victor I can’t see him out of the money with a clear round and luck in running.

Don’t rule out Pineau De Re, Dr Newland is happier with him now than he has been all season, Richard thinks the horse has lost a bit of pace but that’s not going to make much difference over four & a half miles. Pineau has come right in the last few weeks and it would be no surprise if the last years winner ran another huge race.

Dr Newland also has Royale Knight but he could be outpaced before running on when it’s maybe a bit late, Royale Knight should get round though and could grab a place if Brendan Powell is able to keep the horse in touch.

Night In Milan can run a race “25-1” as can Alvarado “25-1” both should give you a run for your money at big prices.

It’s Balthazar King for me though and a few smaller EW bets on the above named horses. The very best of luck with your National bets and let’s hope all horses & jockeys come back safe and sound.