4.00 4m. 2f. 74yds. 32 Declared. Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (Class 1 ) of £1,000,000.00 7-y-o plus
1st - €500,000.00 2nd - €200,000.00 3rd - €100,000.00 4th - €65,000.00 5th - €40,000.00 6th - €30,000.00 7th - €20,000.00 8th - €15,000.00 9th - €10,000.00 10th - €5,000.00
Formscan - Last year's winner Corach Rambler returns to defend his crown after producing a terrific effort to place in the Gold Cup. Officially 3lb well-in, the main concern for his defence would be the combination of a 13lb rise and conditions being more testing than ideal. Irish National winner I Am Maximus and Ultima third Meetingofthewaters head a strong team for Willie Mullins and JP McManus. The former has since won a Grade 1 novice back at Fairyhouse and warmed up with a convincing victory over Vanillier in the Bobbyjo. That being said, while Aintree can bring out the best in quirkier types, it remains to be seen how he handles this experience and his stablemate, winner of the Paddy Power at Leopardstown over Christmas, may prove best of the Mullins contingent. However, it is another McManus contender who has plenty going for her in the shape of LIMERICK LACE. Attempting to become the first mare since Nickel Coin in 1951 to win the race, she arrives having enjoyed a terrific season with confidence sky-high after landing the Mares' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. She qualified to run here when runner-up in the Troytown and it seems significant that her full-brother Inothewayurthinkin improved plenty for stepping up in trip when taking the Kim Muir. Others likely to be popular on the day include Mr Incredible, who appeared unlucky when unseating at the Canal Turn last year, 2022 winner Noble Yeats and Delta Work.