John Burke

Morning all.

The Aintree Grand National begins today. Besides the ‘big one’ there’s plenty more high-quality action over the three days to enjoy.

Today see’s four Grade 1 races. The Manifesto Novices' Steeple Chase (1.45), Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle (2.20), Betway Bowl Chase (2.55) and Betway Aintree Hurdle (3.30). There’s also a first sight of the National fences in the Randox Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase (4:05)

There are another four Grade 1 races on Friday’s seven race card. The Betway Top Novices' Hurdle (2.20), Betway Mildmay Novices' Chase (2.55), Marsh Chase (3.30) and the Cavani Menswear Sefton Novices' Hurdle (4.40).  The big betting race of the day is the Grade 3 Topham Handicap Chase (4:05) over the National fences.

Besides the Grand National itself the Saturday card also includes another three Grade 1 contests. The Betway Mersey Novices' Hurdle (2.25), Maghull Novices' Chase (3.00) and JRL Group Liverpool Hurdle (3.35).

Looking at the entries. I have to say the Grade 1 races don’t seem to have the strongest look to them and we could see some smallish fields. That said the field sizes for the handicap races should hold up.

Inside today’s main piece I look at the first three races on the Aintree card.

Read More »Aintree Grand National Festival – Day 1

Morning all,

The Randox sponsored Grand National is one the world’s most famous horse races. However, what made it such an iconic race is long gone and never to return. Today’s race arguably assembles a better-quality field and remains an exciting big field 4m 2f handicap chase.

I’m sure you remember the excitement and of course trepidation seeing the runners jumping the old Becher’s Brook.  Nearly 30-years ago I had the chance to walk the course and seeing the size of the fences up so close gave me knots in my stomach. Yes. It used to be that sort of race. It’s what made it so iconic.

In today’s day and age, it had become an unacceptable risk though. The changes made to the fences were imho, the correct ones. However, there is still part of me that yearns for the old Grand National and those fearsome fences.

There are two features that still make the unique. You don’t see forty runner horse races and despite the modification to the fences. They still provide a challenge to both horse and jockey that other racecourses don’t.

If you can’t stand the Grand National you won’t like today’s offering as its devoted to the race.   

Read More »Grand National Preview

Morning all,

Inside today’s main piece. I look back at the flat action across the Irish Sea on Trial’s Day at Leopardstown on Saturday. Plus, there’s a Tuesday tip at the end.

Read More »Classic Pointers

Morning all,

You had to be back in jumps mode on Saturday. Although, there was a potentially informative Trial’s card at Leopardstown. More on that in Tuesday’s column.  It was NH game and the Scottish Grand National that took centre stage this side of the Irish Sea. There was also a valuable jumps card at Newbury on Saturday. However, the card suffered from decimated field sizes due to the quickening ground.

Inside today’s column I look back at the Ayr highlights. Plus, there’s a Monday tip at the end of the main piece.

Read More »Ayr's Aintree Appetiser