Aintree Racecard - Thursday 9th April

WELCOMES YOU

Welcome to the 2026 Randox Grand National

It is a privilege to welcome you to Aintree for one of the world’s most iconic sporting spectacles —the Randox Grand National. This year is particularly special as we mark 10 years of proudly sponsoring this extraordinary event.

At Randox, we understand that peak performance, whether in sport or in life is built on knowledge, insight and expertise Through Randox Health, we deliver data driven personalised health testing powered by science you can trust. Our advanced insights identify imbalances in the body at an early stage, guiding smarter evidence-based decisions that support longevity and long-term wellbeing.

With 50+ clinics across the UK and Ireland—and plans to expand to 70 by the end of the year we’re making preventative health insights accessible to more people than ever. Plus, with results delivered in just 2 hours of your sample reaching the lab, you get fast, actionable information to take control of your health.

On behalf of Randox, I extend my very best wishes to all those competing and to the dedicated teams behind the scenes who make this incredible event possible We hope you enjoy a fantastic day of racing, drama, and sporting excellence

Let the race begin!

Dr. Peter FitzGerald CBE FREng DL Randox Managing Director

WELCOMES YOU

Good afternoon and welcome to Aintree Racecourse for day one of the Randox Grand National Festival.

As the centrepiece of our racing calendar this fixture is something we prepare for all year, and it’s wonderful to have you here to enjoy everything that makes Aintree so special and to share in one of sport’s most iconic occasions.

Across the next three days there are 21 races to enjoy, showcasing top-class equine talent from both the UK, Ireland and France Today’s card features four Grade One races, with the Racing Welfare Bowl taking centre stage at 2.55pm and featuring some of the very best staying chasers in the sport.

At 3.30pm, another highlight, this time over the famous Grand National Fences, with the Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase The last race of the day is named after Nickel Coin, who was the last mare to win the Grand National and this year we celebrate 75 years since that special feat.

At 12:25pm, Wendy Humphrey-Taylor will be presented with the Rose Paterson Community Sportswoman of the Year Award in the Memorial Garden, located in front of The Art School. Nominated by Liverpool Football Club Wendy has been a tireless supporter of refugees and asylum seekers across Merseyside, using the power of football to create opportunity and inclusion. We are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to Wendy, a truly deserving recipient of this special honour

Aintree is a place where legends are made, and today we are proud to celebrate that legacy as Rachael Blackmore is officially inducted as an Aintree Legend. She joins an illustrious roll of honour including Sir Anthony McCoy, Red Rum and Tiger Roll. At 12:45pm, Rachael will also open our brand-new alcohol-free facility, Blackmore’s. Be sure to visit, take in the striking artwork on the side of the Lord Sefton Stand, and, as an added bonus, the first 100 guests through the door will receive a complimentary hot drink.

A selection of DJs will be bringing feel-good beats to various locations across the site throughout the day, with the Red Rum Garden featuring entertainment from Adam Foxcroft, Dean Peet, Warren Cane and Ant Armstrong.

To round off the day we would highly recommend a trip back to the Parade Ring to see the Goffs Aintree Sale taking place As somewhere you can view some potential stars of the future paraded, this is a treat for all racegoers.

As always, we’d like to extend our immense thanks to all of today’s sponsors, including Boodles, William Hill, Racing Welfare, Close Brothers, Goffs and of course our Festival Partner Randox. We wish you all a fantastic day here with us.

Finally, we’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to you all for joining us for day one of the Randox Grand National Festival, and we wish you an extremely enjoyable day with us.

Julian Taylor Dickon White Chairman, Aintree Racecourse

Regional Director , Aintree Racecourse

TODAY'S RACE SPONSORS

RACEDAY OFFICIALS

Stewards

Shaun Parker (Chief Steward)

Mrs C. F. Tellwright & Peter Heaton (Stewards' Panel Chairs)

Beth Dowswell, Nathan Green, Phillipa Hardy, Louise Moore, Adrian Sharpe

Starters

Robert Supple

Stuart Turner

Seamus O'Neill

Equine Welfare & Integrity Officers

Lisa Cook, Melanie Swarbrick, Hannah Carnall, Clive Jefferies, Amy Fairclough, Joanna Vickers, Graham Gray Christopher Maiden, Martin Knight, Michelle Maughan, Andrea Kelly, Michael Turner

Judges

Michael Roberts & David Hicks

Clerks Of The Scales

Wayne Burnell & Claudia Marelli

Handicapper

Matt Gardner

Veterinary Officers

Graham Potts, Kate Maxwell, Jocelyn Habershon-Butcher, Howard Newitt

Nurses

Darron Lomax & Anne Curran

Regional Director - North West

Dickon White

Regional Head of Racing and Clerk of the Course – Aintree

Sulekha Varma

Regional Head of Operations –North West

Stephen Mansfield

Head of MarketingAintree and Haydock Park

James Rennard

Head of Commercial –Aintree and Haydock Park

Claire Leonard

Regional General ManagerCatering

Lee Dennan

Veterinary Surgeons

Paddy Macandrew, Jonathan Withers, Alasdair Topp, Ellen Singer, Jim Tipp, Eugenio Cillan-Garcia, Kerry Comb

Susan Taylor, Tim Froydenlund, Kate Sumner, Chessie Greenham, John Spencer, Medical Officers

Dr John Murray Dr Ian Roberts, Dr John Edwards, Dr Kate Gaskell, Dr Mike Unwin, Dr Owen Richards, Dr Emily Hill, Dr Helen Blakey, Dr David Thomas Physios

Alison Stuart & Cathryn Woodall

Commentators

Simon Holt, Alan Howes, David Fitzgerald

Betting Ring Managers

Darren Irving, Neil Pateman, Mark Ryan, Malcolm Hart

Chairman

Julian Taylor

Clerk Of The Course

Sulekha Varma

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Dickon White

Partnership Account Manager

Liz Jacob

Communications Lead

Sophie-May Clarke

Sales Service Manager

Lucy McCaffrey

Owners Liaison Manager

Carly Sage

Estates Manager

Stephen Fyles

General Manager – Haydock Park

Simon Tonge

Clerk of the Course – Haydock Park

Daniel Cooper

INFORMATION

ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

PETE TONG PETE TONG

The Jockey Club would like to thank our Group Partners for their support in 2026

ROCKETT

RACING EXPLAINED NG D

(IRE) (42) 203-411 8 11-8

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Eireann Rose (IRE)

Mr P. W. Mullins

Stewart & Sadie Andrew W. P. Mullins, Ireland

Mr K. D. Cotter

TIMEFORM VIEW Has improved in his second season chasing, winning the Thyestes at Gowran in January before taking the Bobbyjo

for

1. FORM

ARD EXPLAINED

EXPERT VIEW

A quick way to see a horse's past A way see a hor performance These are its recent are recent finishing positions.

Look out for Letters: ok

C = Has won at this course = won at course

D = Has won over this distance = over

CD = Has won over this distance at = over dis nce this course cour

BF = Was a beaten favourite = a favourit

MORE INFORMATION ON THE FORM

- = New racing season = season

/ = Missed racing season = season

P = Was pulled-up and didn't finish = Was and didn't finish the race race

F = Horse fell = Horse

U = Rider unseated = unseat

R = Horse refused to race =

CO = The horse was forced out of a = was a race by a loose horse ce a loose hor

B = Horse was brought down = was down

S = Horse slipped = Horse

r = The horse ran around a jump or = around a or took the wrong course in a flat race ok wrong course in a race

d = Disqualified = Disqualified

Bold form figures Bold form figur = performance in = in all-weather (Flat) or Point-to-Point eather or Point-to-Point (Jump) races races

How the experts rate the horse's chances: w experts rate hor

2. BHA rating = the higher the number = the number better horse

4.

HORSE'S TRAINER

3. Timeform view and Time rm TFR rating.

& THEIR LOCATION CATION

Look out for the summary of leading ok out for the of course trainers before each race se tr s befo race

5. JOCKEY

ra the the bette the hor TRAINER summary fo jock

Listen out for any jockeys who are having en out any s are a successful day. da

HER USEFUL

6. Owner's colours worn by the Jockey worn the Jock

7. Saddlecloth

8. Horse's name Hor 's

9. Days since the horse last run Days the horse run

10 Horse's age Hor (stone and Ibs) Jock (s ne and

12. The horse's breeding – father (sire) e s – father (sir and mother and mother

13. Horse's owner Hor

14. Horse's breeder Hor br

15. Birthplace of horse (outside GB) of horse

11. Jockey's weight eeding (dam) eeder hor

THE 2026 RANDOX GRAND NATIONALTROPHY

ADecadeofPartnership,ALegacyofExcellence

The Randox Grand National is more than a race it is a defining test of endurance, precision and courage, watched by millions across the world.

As Randox proudly marks ten years as title sponsor, this year’s trophy celebrates sporting greatness and a decade of partnership with Aintree

Created with luxury jewellery designer Boodles, the 2026 trophy is a striking fusion of science and sport reflecting Randox’s pioneering spirit while honouring the heritage of the world’s greatest steeplechase

ADecade

of Distinction

For ten years, Randox has commissioned a new trophy design for each winner, ensuring every champion lifts a one-of-a-kind piece of history Three miniature replicas are also presented to the winning Jockey, Trainer and Groom recognising that excellence, whether in sport or science, is always a team effort.

Symbolism in Design

The trophy draws inspiration from the twisting double helix of DNA, symbolising Randox’s commitment to advancing healthcare through research and innovative testing. A molecular network forms the core, a steroid nucleus is engraved on the surface, and a sweeping line represents the finish line all celebrating determination, skill and pioneering spirit. Ten diamonds accent the nucleus, with a small “10” engraved inside the cup to mark Randox’s ten-year sponsorship

A deep red enamel dot atop malachite at the base completes the design, echoing the Randox logo and brand colours.

ATrophyWorthyof Champions

As the field lines up once again at Aintree, this year’s Randox Grand National Trophy stands as a symbol not only of victory, but of partnership, progress and enduring legacy.

On this landmark tenth year, it represents a decade of shared history and the promise of many more to come

All 10 trophies from the past decade will be on display in the Randox Health activation on Grand National Avenue, giving fans a unique opportunity to view the full collection of designs.

FACTS & STATS S

OVERVIEW

Switched to the opening race of the meeting for this year, the Anniversary was handed top level status in 2005 It is now only the second Grade 1 in the English calendar for juvenile hurdlers, along with the Triumph Hurdle. Prior to 2005, it was difficult for horses to complete the double (as they would be penalised) but since then, five horses have managed to do so This makes the Triumph hurdle a key guide to finding success here. Willie Mullins has landed three of the last nine renewals, all with fillies, while Nicky Henderson has taken three of the last seven renewals back to Seven Barrows.

1 RUN OVER TWO MILES, 209 YARDS 9 HURDLES TO BE

Murcia turned the tables on her Fred Winter conqueror with an impressive success Eighth at Cheltenham, she benefited from a 13lb swing with Puturhandstogether who lined up as the strong market leader, and made it count Ridden by Paul Townend, she took over four out and travelled strongly in front. Harry Skelton briefly threatened on Live Conti, but Murcia found another gear after the last and pulled 6 lengths clear at the line to win with authority. TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF

ROLL OF HONOUR

£61,897 TO THE WINNER

15 of the past 20 winners had won a Graded contest earlier in the season

12 of the last 17 winners had started their career in France 9 of the past 12 winners were French-bred

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the

TRAINER

Willie Mullins

3 winners

Today Willie Saddles

Vary

JOCKEY

Paul Townend 1 winner

(CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE)

for juvenile four yrs old ™ Total prize fund £110000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £47344, 2nd £19514, 3rd £9757, 4th £4884, 5th £2442, 6th £1221, 7th £605, 8th £308. (Penalty Value £61897)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton

(26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs MAESTRO CONTI TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (10 wins from 43 runners, 23%) runs MAESTRO CONTI FANCY THAT: W P Mullins won this race in 2016, 2023 and 2025. The stable runs SELMA DE VARY today.

LONGEST TRAVELLERS: MANGE TOUT trained by G Elliott & SELMA DE VARY trained by W P Mullins - both Ireland.

1 AMMES (IRE) (30) 1120 D

11-2

Br B g No Nay Never (USA) - Crystal Diamond Sean Bowen J

O J Melville and A Mehrad

James Owen, Newmarket T

B Barronstown Stud Fitzdares Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful Flat performer who chased home Minella Study in hat-trick bid at Wetherby in October, and the addition of the first-time visor at least looks a positive, having jumped below-par when well held in Fred Winter last time TFRHHIII BHA126

2 AQUA BLEU (IRE) (55) 2111 D 11-2

Br B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Mrs Mouse (IRE)

James Bowen J

O Jim and Claire Limited Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn T

B Declan & Denis Phelan Warren Greatrex Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Professional for one so lightly raced and he improved to make it a hat-trick in junior hurdles at Chepstow in mid-February though finds himself in much deeper waters now. TFRHHIII BHA126

3 INDIAN RIVER (IRE) (27) 1110 D 11-2

Br B g Nathaniel (IRE) - The Tulip (IRE) Danny McMenamin J

O Mr Garry Wilkie Wilson

B Airlie Stud & Mrs S. M. Rogers

Adrian Keatley, Malton T

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressed to make it a hat-trick over hurdles on Sedgefield handicap bow and ran as well as could be expected in Grade 1 company when tenth of 20 in the Triumph at Cheltenham. This is just as tough. TFRHHIII BHA127

4 LORD (GER) (68) 111612 CD BF 11-2

Br B g Best Solution (IRE) - Linaria (GER) Theo Gillard J

O David & Carol Shaw

Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

B Gestut Auenquelle Bluegrass Horse Feeds S

TIMEFORMVIEWResumedwinningwayswhenmakingallinC&DListedjuvenileonsecondstartforcurrentyardanddidallhecouldgivingweightawaytoaspeedier rival at Musselburgh in late-January Cheekpieces go on first time, but he’s likely to prove vulnerable pitched into Grade 1 company. TFRHHIII BHA126

5 MAESTRO CONTI (FR) (27) 1112 D 11-2

Br Ch g Prince Gibraltar (FR) - Valdivia (IRE)

Harry Skelton J

O Hales Speelman Mason Hogarth Ferguson Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Mr Patrick Joubert Morson Group S

TIMEFORM VIEW Scopey, fast-improving sort who did remarkably well (refused to settle) to make 3-3 on Trials Day at Cheltenham before enhancing his reputation when runner-up in the Triumph last time finishing ahead of 4 of today’s rivals. Making only his fifth career start, he has to be high on the shortlist. TFRHHHHI BHA143

6 MINELLA

STUDY (GB) (27) 1113 D

11-2

Br B g Study of Man (IRE) - Albamara Ryan Mania J

O Malcolm & Carol Humble Adam Nicol, Seahouses T

B Miss K. Rausing

TIMEFORM VIEW Has proved most progressive for emerging yard, seeing off Winston Junior in a Cheltenham juvenile hurdle prior to running a stormer to finish third (short head behind Maestro Conti) in the Triumph there last time Further improvement cannot be ruled out with this test promising to suit. TFRHHHHI BHA143

7 WINSTON JUNIOR (IRE)

(30) 2212 11-2

Br B g Churchill (IRE) - Kimblewick (IRE) Harry Cobden J

O R Bartlett, J Carthy & Mrs P Shanahan Faye Bramley, Lambourn T

B Grenane House Stud

TIMEFORMVIEW Useful maiden on Flat who has gone from strength to strength over hurdles, galloping inferior rivals into submission at Ascot before bumping into a similarly well-treated rival when second on handicap bow in the Fred Winter Well worth a go in Grade 1 company, with further improvement expected. TFRHHHII BHA138

8 WOLF

RAYET (IRE) (27) 2430 11-2

Br B g Camelot - Martini Glass (USA)

Robert Dunne J

O Mr Anthony R.Hunt Samuel Drinkwater, Strensham T

B Flaxman Stables Ireland Ltd Solstice S

TIMEFORMVIEW Lightly-raced maiden who benefitted from a patient ride when (200/1) eighth of 20 in a well-run Triumph at Cheltenham, and while that was an improved effort on form, he’s most likely booked for minor honours again. TFRHHIII BHA130

9

MANGE TOUT (FR) (66) 1113 D 10-9

Br B f Born To Sea (IRE) - Brune Ecossaise (FR) Jack Kennedy J

O Robcour Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

B S.C.E.A. Haras de Peyre & Mme P Papon Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott S

TIMEFORMVIEW

Half-sistertoGrade1winninghurdler/chaserImpaireEtPassewhobeatNarcisoHas(long-timeante-postTriumphfavourite)tomakeit3-3,andthoughunable to confirm that form when third in Leopardstown Grade 1 in early February she’ll likely be fresher than most having bypassed Cheltenham. TFRHHHII BHA138

10 SELMA DE VARY (FR) (27) 2-5124 D 10-9

Br Ch f Zarak (FR) - Alliance A Vary (FR)

P. Townend J

O Mrs S. Ricci W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

B Jacques Cypres & CTE. G. De Saint Seine

TIMEFORMVIEWUsefulfillysplitNarcisoHas/MangeToutonfirststartforWillieMullinsandconfirmedherselfamuch-improvedperformerwhenfourthinTriumphatCheltenham. That performance can be marked up and she makes plenty of appeal with tongue strap refitted (on for sole previous success in France). TFRHHHHH BHA138

DECLARED RUNNERS 10

2025: MURCIA (FR) 4 10 9 P Townend 11-4 (W P Mullins) 13 ran

Visor worn first time by No 1. Tongue Strap worn first time by No 10

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 4. Hood worn by No 9, 10 Tongue Strap worn by No 8.

Probable S.P’s: 11-4 Selma de Vary (FR), 3-1 Maestro Conti (FR), 9-2 Minella Study (GB), 13-2 Winston Junior (IRE), Mange Tout (FR), 40-1 Ammes (IRE), 66-1 Aqua Bleu (IRE), Lord (GER), Wolf Rayet (IRE), 100-1 Indian River (IRE)

A mouth-watering renewal. Having been keen/forced to switch at a crucial stage, SELMA DE VARY did well to finish fourth behind progressive pair Maestro Conti (second) and Minella Study (third) in last month’s Triumph and perhaps crucially, a tongue strap now goes on for first time since joining Willie Mullins. She can reverse the form, and in doing so, add to her yard’s fine recent record with fillies in this race

TODAY'S RACE SPONSOR

find out more about today's race sponsor at boodles.com

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.

Grand National Legends

- Rachael

Blackmore

TODAY,

WE ARE PROUD TO OPEN A BRAND-NEW FACILITY AT AINTREE RACECOURSE

AS WE CELEBRATE RACHAEL BLACKMORE, WHO WILL ALSO BE INDUCTED AS A GRAND NATIONAL LEGEND FOR 2026.

Blackmore, who made history in 2021 as the first female jockey to win the Grand National, will take her place among an illustrious group of legends commemorated at Aintree These include iconic figures such as Ginger McCain, Jenny Pitman and JP McManus, alongside equine stars like Red Rum, Tiger Roll and Aldaniti.

The opening of the new facility, an alcohol-free space serving Lavazza coffee, fresh bakes and zero-alcohol alternatives, takes place at 12:35pm, when Rachael will also be officially inducted as an Aintree Legend. Racegoers will also be able to get a first glimpse of the new mural dedicated to her historic win, which adorns the exterior of Blackmore’s Bar

Her 2021 victory aboard Minella Times, trained by Henry de Bromhead and owned by JP McManus, secured her place in sporting history Over her career, she rode in the Grand National seven times and achieved 575 winners, including 18 at the Cheltenham Festival, before retiring in 2025.

Reflecting on the honour, Blackmore said: “Winning the Randox Grand National at Aintree on Minella Times is a moment in my life I will never forget. Seeing my name now included on the list of Grand National Legends is such an honour, I feel very lucky to be part of that history.”

Be sure to visit and see the induction, as well as the new facility, with the first 100 people through the door getting a free coffee!

FACTS & STATS S

THE WILLIAM HILL MANIFESTO NOVICES' CHASE

OVERVIEW Named after Manifesto, a horse who ran in eight Grand National's between 1895 and 1904, this race was first staged in 2009 as a Grade 2. Handed Grade 1 status after just three renewals, this race often features horses who ran previously in the Arkle or the now-defunct Golden Miller at the Cheltenham Festival on their previous start Speed has proven to be essential on the Spring ground and form over 2m - both over hurdles and fences - is a huge positive, with many winners having shown form over the minimum trip as a hurdler.

1

IMPAIRE ET PASSE

Impaire Et Passe returned 12 months after his Aintree Hurdle victory to land a fifth Grade 1 and a second success over fences at the highest level. Paul Townend kept things simple, riding him wide following a sketchy round at Leopardstown, but the first-time cheekpieces seemed to sharpen him up considerably Gidleigh Park led turning for home, though Townend was always travelling menacingly in the colours of Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Impaire Et Passe sealed the race at the final fence, while Jango Baie finished strongly but was just denied second by Gidleigh Park

RUN OVER TWO MILES, THREE FURLONGS & 200 YARDS 16 FENCES TO BE JUMPED

KEY TRENDS 2025 WINNER

All 16 winners were beaten on their latest outing

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £120,000 £67,524 TO THE WINNER

Grade 1 winners are 6-21 since the race was upgraded 4 of the past 5 winners arrived to Aintree 'fresh'

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years.

TRAINER

Paul Nicholls

2nd in 2024

Today Paul Saddles

Blueking d'Oroux

JOCKEY

Harry Cobden

2nd in 2024

Today Harry Rides Blueking d'Oroux

EPIC BOOST

THE WILLIAM HILL MANIFESTO NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE

(CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE)

for novice five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £120000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £51648, 2nd £21288, 3rd £10644, 4th £5328, 5th £2664. (Penalty Value £67524)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): P Nicholls

(19 wins from 111 runners, 17%) runs BLUEKING D’OROUX TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): P Nicholls (6 wins from 22 runners, 27%) runs BLUEKING D’OROUX

LONGEST TRAVELLER: KOKTAIL DIVIN trained by H de Bromhead, Ireland.

SECOND RACE 2.20

1 BLUEKING D’OROUX (FR) (26) 41-2152 D 7 11-7

Br B g Jeu St Eloi (FR) - Belle du Bresil (FR) Harry Cobden J

O Mrs Johnny de la Hey Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

B David Giraudeau & Philippe Moreau Morson Group S

TIMEFORMVIEW Smart hurdler, ending last

2

JAX

JUNIOR

(GB) (30) 214114 D 7 11-7

HIIII BHA143

Br B g Jack Hobbs - Double Storm Tom Cannon J

O Cheryl Burton & Julian Lefevre Lucy Wadham, Newmarket T

B Mrs C R Burton Brown & Brown S

TIMEFORMVIEW Three-timenovicehurdlewinnerlastseasonandhasshownevenbetterformwhennotchingthesamenumberofwinsoverfencesthistime round, easily taking Grade 2 Pendil at Kempton. Big price in Arkle at Cheltenham and can bouce back to form here. TFRHHHII BHA145

3 KOKTAIL DIVIN (FR)

(29) 14-2216 D 6 11-7

Br B g Masked Marvel - Divine Sainte (FR) Darragh O’Keeffe J

O Mr Barry Maloney Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T

B Mrs Karine Perreau

TIMEFORM VIEW Good fourth in Grade 1 novice hurdle at this meeting last year and has continued progress over fences this season, second in Punchestown Grade 2 before very impressive in novice at Leopardstown. Bang there for long way in Brown Advisory at Cheltenham after and can resume progress back down in trip TFRHHHHI BHA150

4 LULAMBA (FR) (30) 2-11113 BF 5 11-7

Br B g Nirvana Du Berlais (FR) - Ejland (FR) Nico de Boinville J

O Mrs J Donnelly Nicky Henderson, Lambourn T

B Thierry Cypres Unibet S

TIMEFORMVIEW Oneoftheleadingjuvenilehurdlerslastseasonandhasrapidlydevelopedintoanevenbetterchaser boltingupinSandownGrade1novicebeforedispatching more experienced rivals in Grade 2 at Newbury Serious error 2 out ended chance in the Arkle but this looks a good opportunity up in trip TFRHHHHH BHA162

5 MAMBONUMBERFIVE (FR) (61) 10-1113 C 5 11-7

Br B g Born To Sea (IRE) - Sweet Mambo (FR)

Ben Jones J

O Mal Bloodstock Ltd Ben Pauling, Naunton T

B Haras de Mandore Fitzdares S

TIMEFORM VIEW Made it 3 from 3 over fences this season in Grade 2 at Kempton over Christmas but he wasn’t foot perfect there and was let down by jumping when well held in Kingmaker at Warwick subsequently Stiff task here but longer trip should put less pressure on his jumping. TFRHHIII BHA146

DECLARED RUNNERS 5 2025: IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR) 7 11 7 P Townend 9-4 (W P Mullins) 9 ran

Tongue Strap worn by No 2. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1.

Stewards Note:

MAMBONUMBERFIVE: Following its run on 7/2/2026 it was reported that the horse jumped poorly

Probable S.P’s: 4-7 Lulamba (FR), 10-3 Koktail Divin (FR), 12-1 Jax Junior (GB), 22-1 Mambonumberfive (FR), 33-1 Blueking d’Oroux (FR)

PLAY SMARTER

LULAMBA wasn’t quite at the top of his game in the Arkle at Cheltenham but this looks a good opportunity with the step up in trip likely to suit. Koktail Divin is the obvious threat back down in distance having shaped well for a long way in the Brown Advisory at the same meeting.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.LULAMBA (FR) 2.KOKTAIL DIVIN (FR) 3.JAX JUNIOR

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.

You may be asked to provide proof of your age when placing a bet

If you cannot produce this your bet will not be accepted

Randox Grand National Festival News: Wendy Humphrey-Taylor Named Rose Paterson Community Sportswoman Award Winner For 2026

Aintree Racecourse has today named Wendy HumphreyTaylor as the winner of the Rose Paterson Community Sportswoman Award for 2026.

Launched by the racecourse in partnership with BBC Radio Merseyside at the 2021 Randox Grand National Festival, the award remembers Aintree’s late Chair Rose Paterson, who sadly passed away in 2020 Its aim is to recognise on an annual basis a female from Merseyside who is making a difference to grassroots community sport, either through participation or support.

This year’s nominations were judged by Rose’s daughter Evie and ITV Racing presenter Alice Plunkett.

Wendy, who was nominated by the LFC Foundation, has been a dedicated figure in supporting refugees and asylum seekers across Merseyside using the opportunities offered by football. She has volunteered at Asylum Link as a Volunteer Football Coordinator for over 15 years and her unwavering commitment has created a more inclusive, connected, and welcoming community for those who are often the most marginalised in society.

She consistently promotes and advertises the opportunities offered by sport, not only within Asylum Link but across the wider network of charities she collaborates with. This helps to ensure that all refugees and asylum seekers, regardless of their background or status, are aware of the sporting opportunities on offer to them and made to feel welcome to participate.

Through her work, Wendy has developed links with football foundations across the North West, including the Liverpool Football Club Foundation and Everton In The Community, helping to use the medium of sport as a means of integration and creating a broader community of inclusion.

Wendy also addresses the practical barriers to participation and frequently donates football boots and clothing to new participantsmany of whom arrive without suitable sportswear - removing a key barrier that might otherwise prevent involvement.

With her tireless, hands-on approach, Wendy is a most devoted and impactful supporter of inclusion-focused work. Her contributions transcend what is expected of a volunteer and she gives her time, energy and expertise without asking for anything in return - only ever offering gratitude for being part of the journey.

At the Randox Grand National Festival, Wendy will receive her award in the Rose Paterson Memorial Garden on Opening Day (Thursday 9th April) and receives £1,000 to donate to a charity of her choice

Wendy supports the LFC Foundation which is the official charity of Liverpool Football Club They aim to tackle social inequality home and away It focusses on improving health, championing learning and providing employability programmes for all. Last season the LFC Foundation supported over 145,000 people in Liverpool as well as across five other countries.

Speaking about being named the winner, Wendy said: “I am truly humbled that the committee has endowed me with this prestigious Rose Paterson award The award is not only for me, but also for staff of LFC Foundation, Everton in the Community, Liverpool Football Association, and for the charities, the thousands of staff and volunteers, male and female, who make a difference to the lives of so many Merseyside communities through inclusion. I give you all my eternal thanks.”

Dickon White, The Jockey Club’s North West Regional, said: “Wendy Humphrey-Taylor has devoted herself to improving the lives of others in the most selfless way, which goes to the very heart of what the Rose Paterson Community Sportswoman Award is really about.

'She is a most worthy recipient, and we look forward to welcoming her to Opening Day at the Randox Grand National Festival.'

FACTS & STATS S

THE RACING WELFARE AINTREE BOWL CHASE

OVERVIEW First ran in 1984, the Bowl - or Martell Cup as it was previously known - is the feature Grade 1 chase on the opening day of the Grand National Festival This race has £250,000 of prize money on offer, making it one of the most lucrative Grade 1 Steeplechases run in the United Kingdom The race was upgraded to Grade 1 status in 2010, and the names Wayward Lad, Silviniaco Conti, Cue Card and Clan Des Obeaux all feature on the roll of honour. As you might expect, both the King George and Gold Cup have been good pointers in recent years, although tread carefully with those who appeared to have had a tough race at Cheltenham last time out.

Willie Mullins made a flying start to the Grand National Festival, sweeping the opening three Grade 1 contests on the card Gold Cup hero Gaelic Warrior was stepped up in trip over fences for the first time and saw it out strongly, delivered with a cool, patient ride by Patrick Mullins. Front-runners Stage Star and Grey Dawning ensured a strong gallop but paid the price, setting the race up for a closer Gaelic Warrior was produced wide and finished powerfully to pick them off Grey Dawning stuck on gamely for second, his finish not helped by a mistake at the last

26 of the last 41 winners had run in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham

12 of the past 15 winners were 7-2 or shorter

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Willie Mullins

2 winners

Today Willie Saddles

Impaire Et Passe

OF

The past 14 winners were all beaten last time out

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years. TRAINER

JOCKEY Harry Cobden

2 winners Today Harry Rides Pic D'orhy

THE RACING WELFARE BOWL STEEPLE CHASE

(CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE)

for five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £250000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £107400, 2nd £44200, 3rd £22100, 4th £11050, 5th £5525. (Penalty Value £140325)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton

(26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs PROTEKTORAT TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (10 wins from 80 runners, 12%) runs IMPAIRE ET PASSE

LONGEST TRAVELLERS: SPILLANE’S TOWER trained by J J Mangan & IMPAIRE ET PASSE trained by W P Mullins - both Ireland.

THIRD RACE

1 IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR) (28) 131-B1P C 8 11-10

Br B g Diamond Boy (FR) - Brune Ecossaise (FR) P. Townend J

O Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

B S.C.E.A. Haras de Peyre & Mme Pascale Pa The Sporting Life S

TIMEFORM VIEW High-class hurdler who landed 3 of his first 4 starts over fences, including Grade 1 Manifesto at this meeting 12 months ago Bagged Grade 2 Red Mills Chase on return at Gowran in February and whilst he ran no sort of race in the Ryanair at Cheltenham, his Aintree record stands at 2-2. TFRHHHHI BHA160

2 JANGO BAIE (FR) (27) 213-142 C BF 7 11-10

Br B g Tiger Groom - Tenessee (FR) Nico de Boinville J

O Countrywide Park Homes Ltd Nicky Henderson, Lambourn T

B Mr Andre Jean Belloir et al Countrywide Park Homes and Luxury Lodges S

TIMEFORMVIEW Top-class chaser who landed last year’s Arkle before finishing third behind Impaire Et Passe here. Enhanced his form this season, finishing close-up fourth in King George prior to a fine second in Cheltenham Gold Cup 4 weeks ago The one to beat if that hasn’t taken the edge off him. TFRHHHHH BHA167

3 PIC D’ORHY

(FR) (54) 11P-232 C 11 11-10

Br B g Turgeon (USA) - Rose Candy (FR) Harry Cobden J

O Mrs Johnny de la Hey Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

B Mr J. Contou Carrere & Mr Y. Broca Morson Group S

TIMEFORMVIEWVeteranhigh-classchaserwithafinestrikerate addingasecondAscotChasetohishaullastyear Haslookedasgoodaseverinfinishingplaced all 3 starts this season, finding only Jonbon too strong in aforementioned race in February Won the Melling Chase here in 2023. TFRHHHII BHA162

4 PROTEKTORAT (FR) (40) 142-311

CD 11 11-10

Br B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Protektion (FR)

Harry Skelton J

O SirAFergusonGMasonLHalesTheLateJHales Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Mr Guy Cherel & Mme Isabelle Pacault Morson Group S

TIMEFORM VIEW High-class chaser (C&D winner) who landed 2024 Ryanair at Cheltenham and lines up here on the back of another victory in Fleur de Lys at Windsor and Kelso Listed chase in February This has presumably been his target since and top stable continue in fine form. TFRHHHII BHA165

5

SPILLANE’S TOWER (IRE) (75) 25-2031 D 8 11-10

Br B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - In The Habit (IRE) Mark Walsh J

O Mr John P. McManus James Joseph Mangan, Ireland T

B Mrs Noreen McManus

TIMEFORMVIEW Grade1-winningnovicechaserwhoshowedtop-classformwhenrunner-upinthe2024JohnDurkanatPunchestown.Afteracoupleofrunsoverhurdles,backon the scoresheet in 4-runner Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham in January and whilst this represents a different test, he may yet have more to offer TFRHHHII BHA164

DECLARED RUNNERS 5 2025: GAELIC WARRIOR (GER) 7 11 10 Mr P W Mullins 11-4 (W P Mullins) 7 ran Tongue Strap worn by No 3, 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1. Stewards Note:

IMPAIRE ET PASSE: Following its run on 12/3/2026 it was reported that the horse was never travelling.

Probable S.P’s: 4-5 Jango Baie (FR), 9-2 Spillane’s Tower (IRE), 11-2 Impaire Et Passe (FR), 15-2 Protektorat (FR), 20-1 Pic D’orhy (FR)

PLAY SMARTER

Last season’s Arkle winner JANGO BAIE has progressed again in open company this season, matching the form of his King George fourth when finishing an excellent second in last month’s Gold Cup at Cheltenham. He wasn’t at his very best at this meeting 12 months ago but rates the one to beat provided he’s over those exertions. Impaire Et Passe disappointed in the Ryanair but his Aintree record stands at 2-2 and he can bounce back.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.JANGO BAIE (FR) 2.IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR) 3.SPILLANE’S TOWER (IRE)

BONUS SCHEME

The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly. And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.

HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD

The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) has allocated £77.1m in prize money for 2026. Since 2000 HBLB has invested £1.5bn in prize money to support the British horseracing industry This includes an estimated £918,964 in prize money toAintree from 9thApril to 11thApril 2026.

FACTS & STATS S

OVERVIEW The first of only three races at the meeting on the Grand National course, the Foxhunters' offers amateur jockeys the chance of glory over the most famous fences. Plenty of horses, riders and trainers love a tilt at the Foxhunters', which is the Grand National equivalent for the Point-to-Point racing sphere. This contest can always throw a few curveballs along the way, just like when 66/1 shot Cousin Pascal landed the spoils in 2021

Huw Edwards produced a fine front-rank ride to land last year’s Foxhunters aboard the French-bred Gracchus De Balme. Ridden from the front, he left behind a below-par Leicester run on heavy ground and looked much more at home on this quicker surface. Jack Andrews set a strong gallop on Jet Plane for Dan Skelton and appeared to have stolen it after the last, but Edwards’ mount rallied gamely on the run-in to regain the advantage and score, providing J J O’Shea with a second success in the race

PRIZE FUND OF £50,000 £24,155 TO THE WINNER

ROLL OF HONOUR 2016-2025

KEY TRENDS

11 of the past 20 winners had previous experience over the Grand National fences

22 of the past 32 winners started favourite or second favourite

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last

TRAINER

J J O'Shea

2 winners

Today J J Saddles Barton Snow, Gracchus de Balme & Willewonga

9 of the last 11 winners were aged 9 or older

JOCKEY

Huw Edwards 1 winner Today Huw Rides Gaboriot

THE RANDOX

(CLASS 2)

for six yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £50000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £20995, 2nd £10495, 3rd £5250, 4th £2625, 5th £1310, 6th £655, 7th £330, 8th £165. (Penalty Value £24155)

Bold Form Figures Indicate Point-to-Point Form

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton (26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs SNIPE & UNEXPECTED PARTY TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (10 wins from 43 runners, 23%) runs SNIPE & UNEXPECTED PARTY FANCY THAT: J J O’Shea won this race in 2021 and 2025. The stable runs BARTON SNOW GRACCHUS DE BALME and WILLEWONGA today.

colours no horse age st-lb

1 A JET OF OUR OWN (IRE) (34) 5-31P33 9 12-0

Br B g Jet Away - Satalda’s Lady (IRE)

Mr Zac Baker J

O Mr Edward Philipson-Stow Mrs N. Sheppard, Ledbury T

H Ledbury

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful performer at best but below par this winter and up against it in this company even if recapturing his peak form.

2 A MOMENTS MADNESS (IRE) (32) 34421-3 BF 7 12-0

Br B g Conduit (IRE) - Miss Sarenne (FR)

Mr Albi Tufnell J

O Mrs Jane Tufnell Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

H V.W.H. Calmsden Farms S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair chaser but looked a hard ride switched to a hunter for new connections when third on 21f Carlisle reappearance last month. Has plenty to find on form. TFRHIIII BHA112

3 BARTON SNOW (IRE) (27) 1-11111 D 9 12-0

Br B g Snow Sky - Academy Rose (IRE)

Mr Henry Crow J

O The MMI Partnership J. J O’Shea, Nantwich T

H Percy

TIMEFORMVIEW Strong-travelling 9-y-o who made it 5-5 in hunters with an impressive display in the Cheltenham Foxhunter (3 1/4m, good to soft) last month, idling on the run-in but always holding the re-opposing Its On The Line Will continue to be hard to beat. TFRHHHHH BHA145

4 DENSWORTH (IRE) (34) 1P00-02 9 12-0

Br B g Kayf Tara - Mariah’s Way

Miss Natasha Cookson J

O Mr J. M. B. Cookson J. M. B. Cookson, Morpeth T

H Morpeth And West Percy

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful effort to win a 19f Wetherby handicap chase for Ben Pauling last winter but hasn’t reproduced that form since, beaten 7 lengths when second of 3 finishers to Snipe in 2m Leicester hunter for new connections 24 days ago TFRHIIII BHA127

5 EMPIRE DE MAULDE (FR) (20) 2-141P0 C D 12 12-0

Br B g Spanish Moon (USA) - Ondine de Brejoux (FR) Mr Harry Brown J

O Gunshot Paddocks Racing Club R. W. Varnham, Bramley T

H Chid, Lec & Cowdray

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner but yet to win a hunter and always behind at Newbury (3m) last month. Outsider TFRHIIII BHA117

6 ENQARDE (FR) (23) 4322-1P D 12 12-0

Br B g Kapgarde (FR) - Usachaqa (FR)

O Mrs David Plunkett

H Heythrop

Miss Molly Armytage J

Mrs David Plunkett, Banbury T

TIMEFORM VIEW Caused a 50/1 surprise on hunter debut at Leicester (23f, soft) in February but pulled up at Exeter since Hard to fancy. TFRHIIII BHA118

7 FAIRLY FAMOUS (IRE) (33) 2-32111 9 12-0

Br B g Fame And Glory - Fairly Definite (IRE) Miss Gina Andrews J

O The Signy & Marriage Families

Mrs G. Andrews, Marton T

H Essex & Suffolk Harley Equestrian S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful dual hunter winner at his peak. Operated a little below his best in good company last year but 3 recent point wins suggest this 9-y-o could be back on top of his game

TFRHHHII BHA125

8 FAMOUS CLERMONT (FR) (26) 114U21 CD 11 12-0

Br B g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Progest des Mottes (FR) Mr Milo Herbert J

O Biddiscombe, Rogers & Barber

H Ledbury

C. R. Barber, Beaminster T

TIMEFORM VIEW Took this in 2023 but down the field last year Ended last season with a small-field win at Stratford and arrives fit from points (won last month).

TFRHHHII BHA135

9

FAN DE BLUES (FR) (43)

P6//34-24 11 12-0

Br B g Poliglote - Tire En Touche (FR)

Mr Daniel Williams J

O Miss Nikki Henton Miss Nikki Henton, Eastbury T H Heythrop

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart handicap chaser for Willie Mullins in 2022/23. Has shown he still retains a fair level of ability for his new yard but he was below par when a well-held fourth at Wincanton in February TFRHHIII BHA127

10 GABORIOT

(FR) (21) 3P-2PF3 BF 10 12-0

Br Ch g Muhtathir - Uddy (FR)

Mr Huw Edwards J

O Mr G. C. Myddelton Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero, Malpas T

H Sir W.W. Wynn’s Dodson & Horrell Ltd S

TIMEFORMVIEWGoingwellwhenunseatingatCanalTurninthisin2024and2subsequentoutingsoverC&DhaveresultedinplacedeffortsintheGrandSefton,finishing2lengths second in the latest renewal in November Below par on completed start since but could stage a revival back here in change of headgear TFRHHHII BHA123

11

GOLDEN SON

(FR) (27) 3P3-114

Br Gr g Martaline - Thou In Gold (FR)

8 12-0

Miss Olive Nicholls J

O G. Mason, A. Ferguson and P. Nicholls Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

H Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Morson Group S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who made it 2-2 in hunters with a taking success at Taunton in February but Barton Snow, Its On The Line and Music Drive were too strong for him at Cheltenham last month. More a place than win contender TFRHHHII BHA131

12 GRACCHUS DE BALME (FR)

(27) 1-21P2P CD 10 12-0

Br B g Manbolix (FR) - Olympe de Coudray (FR)

Mr P. A. King J

O Mr D. A. Malam J. J O’Shea, Nantwich T

H Percy

TIMEFORM VIEW Right back to his useful best when landing this race last season. Added the Champion Hunter at Stratford in May but has dropped away tamely when pulled up on both Rules starts this term, latterly in the Cheltenham Foxhunter TFRHHIII BHA132

13 GREAT NOTIONS (FR) (30)

3235P2 7 12-0

Br B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Madoudal (FR) Mr Nick Orpwood J

O Mr R. Tate Fiona Needham, Thirsk T

H Hurworth

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual point winner and took a maiden hunter at Hexham (3m) last May. Some fair efforts in defeats in handicap chases this winter but his form is a fair way below the required standard here. TFRHHIII BHA110

14 ITS ON THE LINE (IRE) (27) 2-14122 CD BF 9 12-0

Br Br g Presenting - Ten Dollar Bill (IRE)

Mr Derek O’Connor J

O Mr John P. McManus Emmet Mullins, Ireland T

H Carlow Farmers

TIMEFORMVIEW Mostlikeableanddependablehunterchasewhowasrunner-upattheCheltenhamFestivalforthefourthyearrunningwhenedgedoutbyBartonSnow 4 weeks ago Has tasted success in hunters at the other big spring festivals, though, including this in 2024. Looks sure to go well again. TFRHHHHI BHA140

15 JAVA POINT (IRE) (20) 24-5122 D 11 12-0

Br B g Stowaway - Classic Sun (GER)

Mr Paddy Barlow J

O Heather Haddock Lemos De Souza, Newmarket T

H Ledbury Class1Personnel S

TIMEFORM VIEW Made a winning start in hunters at Ludlow (3m, soft) in January Runner-up at Southwell and Newbury since but biting off a bit more than he can chew in this company. TFRHHIII BHA125

16 JOKER DE MAI (FR) (48) F-P6433 BF 7 12-0

Br B g Balko (FR) - Divine de Stpierre (FR)

Mr Robert James J

O C & C Boultbee Brooks Clive Boultbee-Brooks, Woolhope T

H Ledbury Boultbee Brooks Real Estate Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful twice for Harry Derham and posted a couple of creditable efforts in 2 1/2m handicaps for this yard in February Fell at the Chair in this last year TFRHHIII BHA122

17 LETS GO

CHAMP

(IRE) (33) 630-P11 11 12-0

Br B g Jeremy (USA) - Dark Mimosa (IRE)

Ms Sophie Carter J

O Knockeen Stables Ltd Ms Margaret Mullins, Ireland T

H Bree

TIMEFORMVIEW Useful chaser for Henry de Bromhead who won in points before making a successful return to Rules in a 25f Gowran hunter (25f, heavy) last month. Won a good handicap over 2 1/2m at the 2024 Punchestown festival so the drop back in trip shouldn’t faze him. TFRHHHII BHA137

18

MUSIC DRIVE

(FR) (27) 114-123

Br B g Muhtathir - Acland Street (FR)

9 12-0

Miss Ellie Callwood J

O Tim & Ali Wheeler Kelly Morgan, Waltham on the Wolds T

H Belvoir

TIMEFORM VIEW Has reached the frame in the last 2 runnings of the Cheltenham Foxhunter finishing just over 7 lengths behind re-opposing pair Barton Snow and It’s On The Line when third this year Likely to give another good account. TFRHHHII BHA133

19 SNIPE (IRE) (34) 400141 C D

Br B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Pisces

9 12-0

Mr Sean O’Connor J

O Foxtrot Racing Snipe Dan Skelton, Alcester T

H Croome & West Warwickshire Foxtrot Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Became disappointing in handicaps but has found the switch to hunters liberating this year winning twice in small fields. Suspicion he might be vulnerable now back in a much more competitive scenario, though. TFRHHIII BHA125

20 TAKE ALL (IRE) (27)

1-44320

Br B g Golden Lariat (USA) - Miss Vickie (IRE)

11 12-0

Mr Samuel Scott J

O Mrs Martine Scott Myles Osborne Bourton-On-The-Water T

H Four Burrow

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful but faded into eighth at Cheltenham last month and likely vulnerable to classier sorts again. Cheekpieces are refitted. TFRHHIII BHA125

21 THUNDER ROCK (IRE) (17) 40-P211 10 12-0

Br B g Shirocco (GER) - La Belle Sauvage

Mr James King J

O McNeill Family & Mr Ian Dale Olly Murphy, Wilmcote T

H Croome & West Warwickshire Betano S

TIMEFORM VIEW Very smart chaser at his peak. Seemingly not the same force these days but it hasn’t prevented him from landing a pair of small-field hunters around 2 1/2m in recent months. More will be needed in this much stronger affair though. TFRHHIII BHA132

22 UNEXPECTED PARTY (FR) (54) 5-52P11 D 11 12-0

Br Gr g Martaline - Reform Act (USA)

Miss Heidi Palin J

O O’Reilly MacLennan Tynan Carthy Shanahan Dan Skelton, Alcester T

H Croome & West Warwickshire

TIMEFORMVIEW Winner of the 2024 Grand Annual at Cheltenham and runner-up in the same race in 2025. 2-2 switched to hunters this year, impressing when making all over 2 3/4m at Haydock latterly Appeals as one who could take well to these fences. Big player. TFRHHHHI BHA147

23 WHATS

THE SOLUTION

(IRE) (19) 136r12 BF 8 12-0

Br Ch g Beat Hollow - Solution Set (IRE)

Mr Jack Teal J

O Mrs Gillian Smith Jack Teal, Malton T

H Hurworth

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner (including last month) but only third in his previous hunter last spring. Up against it. TFRHIIII BHA-

24 WILLEWONGA (GB) (27) 2P2-32P D 10 12-0

Br B g Multiplex - Might Do

Mr Alan O’Sullivan J

O Mr Nathan Richards J. J O’Shea, Nantwich T

H Percy

TIMEFORM VIEW Can be a clumsy jumper as was the case when pulled up in this race last year Suffered the same fate in the Cheltenham Foxhunter last month and looks very much the stable third string. TFRHIIII BHA125

25 HOLLYWOOD HARMON (IRE) (32) 11-3125 D 9 11-7

Br B m Ask - Local Lingo (IRE)

Miss Pippa Brown J

O Mr A C Wilson A C Wilson, Oulston T

H York North & West of Yore

TIMEFORMVIEW Multiple point winner who broke her duck under Rules in 9-runner maiden hunter at Cartmel (21f soft) under Pippa Brown last spring. Bettered that form when second over 3m at Fakenham in February but below par at Carlisle since Easy to look elsewhere. TFRHIIII BHA112

DECLARED RUNNERS 25 2025: GRACCHUS DE BALME (FR) 9 12 0 Mr Huw Edwards 22-1 (J J O’Shea) 29 ran Visor worn first time by No 10 Tongue Strap worn by No 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 11, 15, 16, 18, 20 22. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1, 7, 8, 11, 13, 18, 19, 20

Stewards Note:

A MOMENTS MADNESS: Following its run on 8/3/2026 it was reported that the horse hung left-handed. FAN DE BLUES: Following its run on 25/2/2026 it was reported that the horse made a respiratory noise GREAT NOTIONS: Following its run on 10/3/2026 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled.

Probable S.P’s: 11-4 Barton Snow (IRE), 5-1 Unexpected Party (FR), 6-1 Its On The Line (IRE), 18-1 Lets Go Champ (IRE), 20-1 Golden Son (FR), Music Drive (FR), 33-1 Famous Clermont (FR), Joker de Mai (FR), Thunder Rock (IRE), 40-1 Fairly Famous (IRE), Gaboriot (FR), Gracchus de Balme (FR), Java Point (IRE), 50-1 Snipe (IRE), 80-1 A Moments Madness (IRE), Fan de Blues (FR), Take All (IRE), 100-1 Densworth (IRE), 150-1 A Jet of Our Own (IRE), Empire de Maulde (FR), Enqarde (FR), Great Notions (FR), Whats The Solution (IRE), Willewonga (GB), Hollywood Harmon (IRE)

PLAY SMARTER

BARTON SNOW was very good at Cheltenham and should continue to prove very hard to beat in this sphere. Its On The Line chased home the selection at the Festival and this ultra-consistent sort, who won this in 2024, looks sure to give his usual good account but it could be that the chief threat comes from Dan Skelton’s Unexpected Party, who impressed at Haydock last time

H O L L A N D CO OP

FACTS & STATS S

THE WILLIAM HILL AINTREE HURDLE

OVERVIEW

The Aintree Hurdle is the only Grade 1 hurdle staged over an intermediate trip in Britain throughout the whole season Whilst stayers now have the opportunity to run in the Liverpool Hurdle, this now seems to be a clash between minimum and intermediate horses. This trip gives the opportunity for those classy hurdlers to shine over their optimum trip, with the likes of Oscar Whiskey being a prime example Form over the minimum trip is a positive, whist mares also hold a solid record in the race.

Two of the top-class hurdlers from either side of the Irish Sea renewed their rivalry as Lossiemouth and Constitution Hill clashed again following their Christmas Hurdle showdown The race took a dramatic turn at the second last when Constitution Hill, the 2023 winner, came down, leaving Lossiemouth in command. She quickened clear after the final flight to put the race to bed, seeing off another talented mare Wodhooh and completing a four-timer of Grade 1's on the day for Willie Mullins.

ROLL OF HONOUR 2016-2025

The past 13 winners had already won a Grade 1 27 of the previous 31 winners were aged 6-8

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years. TRAINER Nicky Henderson 4 winners Today Nicky Saddles

THE WILLIAM HILL AINTREE HURDLE RACE

(CLASS 1) (GRADE 1) (GBB RACE)

for four yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £250000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £107400, 2nd £44200, 3rd £22100, 4th £11050, 5th £5525, 6th £2750, 7th £1400 (Penalty Value £140325)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton (26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs THE NEW LION TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (10 wins from 80 runners, 12%) runs EL FABIOLO

FANCY THAT: N Henderson won this race in 2017 2018, 2022 and 2023. The stable runs LUCKY PLACE today. W P Mullins won this race in 2016, 2024 and 2025. The stable runs EL FABIOLO today.

1 ALEXEI (GER) (30) 211314 6 11-10

Br B g Tai Chi (GER) - Andromeda (GER) Brendan Powell J

O Brocade Racing Joe Tizzard, Sherborne T

B J.Stecklein Coral Racing Limited S

TIMEFORMVIEW Has thrived this season, bagging third win in Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton. Ran a cracker when fourth in Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, challenging for a place when making a mess of the last. However, this longer trip not sure to benefit him as much as Brighterdaysahead and The New Lion. TFRHHHII BHA158

2 EL FABIOLO (FR) (38) 2F-F151

9 11-10

Br B g Spanish Moon (USA) - Sainte Mante (FR) P. Townend J

O Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

B Francis Dunn The Sporting Life S

TIMEFORMVIEWTop-classchaserthoughoftenletdownbyjumping.Campaignedoverhurdlesthisseason,showingsmartformwhenwinningacoupleofminorevents. Probably has a bigger performance in him over the smaller obstacles and skipping Cheltenham could work in his favour TFRHHHHI BHA155

3 LUCKY PLACE (FR) (29) 04-3230 D

7 11-10

Br B g Pastorius (GER) - Luckystar du Frene (FR) Nico de Boinville J

O Mrs G. Van Geest & Mr M. George Nicky Henderson, Lambourn T

B Mr E. aubree & Mrs J. Goffin Van Aken Unibet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual Grade 2 hurdle winner last season. Didn’t look a natural in 2 chase outings this term but got back on track reverted to this sphere last 2 starts. This is a tough ask, however TFRHHIII BHA151

4 POTTERS CHARM (IRE)

(46) 5-F3411 C D 7 11-10

Br B g Valirann (FR) - Autumn In New York (IRE) Sam Twiston-Davies J

O El Rincon Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham T

B Mr Gerard P. Flynn Morson Group S

TIMEFORMVIEW Wonhisfirst5startsoverhurdleslastseason,includingaGrade1novicehere(17f).Evenbetterformthisterm,resumingwinning ways in class 2 at Windsor before landing odds in Grade 2 at Fontwell. Bit to find with the principals here, though. TFRHHHII BHA154

5 THE NEW LION (GB) (30) 111-F13 7 11-10

Br B g Kayf Tara - Raitera (FR) Harry Skelton J

O Mr John P. McManus Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B R. D. & Mrs J. S. Chugg Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Unbeaten in 4 starts as a novice and particularly impressive in Baring Bingham at Cheltenham. Put heavy comeback fall behind him when winning Grade 2 at Cheltenham. Ran up to best when third in Champion Hurdle after, shaping as if return to this longer distance will suit. Leading contender TFRHHHHI BHA160

6 BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD (FR) (30) 14-3212 CD 7 11-3

Br B m Kapgarde (FR) - Matnie (FR)

Jack Kennedy J

O Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

B Mr Francois-Marie Cottin Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott S

TIMEFORMVIEW Verysmartmarewhogothercareerbackontrackinnouncertaintermsthiswinter takingadvantageofabelow-parLossiemouthforafourthGrade1success in the Irish Champion at Leopardstown. Beaten only by that rival in Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham since and big shout back up in trip TFRHHHHH BHA159

7 GOLDEN ACE (GB) (30) 1-22125 D 8 11-3

Br B m Golden Horn - Deuce Again Lorcan Williams J

O Mr I. F. Gosden Jeremy Scott, Dulverton T

B Meon Valley Stud Brendon Powerwashers S

TIMEFORMVIEWScalednewheightswhenlandingChampionHurdleayearago albeitafortunatewinner ComebackwininFightingFifthwasalsoaidedbyacoupleofhigh-profile fallers and showed where she is in the pecking order when fifth in this year’s Champion. Others likely more suited by this longer trip TFRHHHII BHA150

DECLARED RUNNERS 7 2025: LOSSIEMOUTH (FR) 6 11 3 P Townend 5-4 (W P Mullins) 6 ran Tongue Strap worn by No 1.

Stewards Note:

ALEXEI: Following its run on 10/3/2026 it was reported that the horse made a bad mistake

Probable S.P’s: 2-1 The New Lion (GB), 9-4 Brighterdaysahead (FR), 11-2 El Fabiolo (FR), 10-1 Alexei (GER), 16-1 Golden Ace (GB), 18-1 Potters Charm (IRE), 40-1 Lucky Place (FR)

There wasn’t much between BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD and The New Lion when second and third in the Champion Hurdle last month, where both shaped as if a return to this longer distance will suit. Marginal preference is for Brighterdaysahead, who was an impressive winner of a Grade 1 over C&D as a novice El Fabiolo probably has a bigger performance in him over hurdles and isn’t taken lightly having skipped Cheltenham.

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FACTS & STATS S

CLOSE BROTHERS RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE

OVERVIEW Over the minimum trip, this is a race not for the faint hearted. Named after Red Rum, this race is run at a furious gallop and looks sure to suit those who like coming from off the pace. This race has risen through the Graded ranks since it's inception as a standard handicap in 2001 First a Listed Handicap and now a Premier Handicap, formerly known as a Grade 3, this race is one for horses who contested the Grand Annual at Cheltenham or bypassed the Festival completely

SansBruit’smarkhadslippedbacktohis2024 winning one and he duly capitalised, scoring with something in hand off 130. He made all, travelling strongly under Harry Cobden and putting his low weight to good use. He kicked clear approaching the last and was never in danger thereafter, holding the late challenge of Calico, who finished four and a half lengths adrift Inedit Star and Gunsight Ridge also outran their odds with good efforts in behind.

ROLL OF HONOUR

9 of the last 10 winners were rated in the 130's

7 of the past 10 winners returned at single-figure odds 7 of the previous 8 winners failed to win earlier in the season

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years. TRAINER

Paul Nicholls

2 winners

Rides

Bruit

Today Paul Saddles Sans Bruit JOCKEY Harry Cobden 1 winner

THE

CLOSE BROTHERS RED

RUM

HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE)

for five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £100000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £43040, 2nd £17740, 3rd £8870, 4th £4440, 5th £2220, 6th £1110, 7th £550, 8th £280 (Penalty Value £56270) Weights raised 14lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton (26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs PALAMON TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (10 wins from 43 runners, 23%) runs PALAMON FANCY THAT: P Nicholls won this race in 2024 and 2025. The stable runs SANS BRUIT today.

LONGEST TRAVELLER: STENCIL trained by N George & A Zetterholm, France

colours no horse age st-lb

1 INTHEPOCKET (GB) (29) 3-F555F CD 9 12-0

Br B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Egretta Island (IRE) Mark Walsh J

O Mr John P. McManus Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T

B Mrs Tessa Greatrex & Mr D. Futter

TIMEFORMVIEW Very talented novice hurdler in 2022/23, winning Grade 1 at this meeting. Hasn’t had a great deal of racing since, including over fences, but in process of running well when falling 2 out in last month’s Grand Annual (yet to be asked for effort). Interesting provided he’s none the worse. TFRHHHHI BHA146

2 HERCULE

DU

SEUIL

(FR) (19) 13P545 D 9 11-13

Br Br g Saddler Maker (IRE) - Cibelle du Seuil (FR) Richie McLernon J

O Mr John P. McManus Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke T

B Mrs Catherine Boudot

TIMEFORMVIEW Smart chaser for Willie Mullins who caught the eye starting out for new yard when fourth at Doncaster (2m) in February Failed to build on that over a longer trip at Newbury since though, and percentage call to look elsewhere now minus his usual hood. TFRHHIII BHA145

3 BROOKIE (IRE) (29) 12-43P0 D 9 11-13

Br B g Policy Maker (IRE) - Presenting d’Azy (IRE) Sam Twiston-Davies J

O Miss A F Rugg Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster T

B Arthur Fennelly geegeez.co.uk S

TIMEFORMVIEW SmartnovicechaserwhotastedsuccesstwiceinhandicapspriortofinishingafinesecondinC&DGrade1atthismeeting12monthsago Resumedwithagood third in handicap at Cheltenham and whilst well held both starts since this much more suitable than his latest Champion Chase assignment. TFRHHHII BHA145

4

BOOTHILL (IRE)

(29) F4-P530 D

11 11-9

Br B or Br g Presenting - Oyster Pipit (IRE) Bryan Carver J

O Brian & Sandy Lambert Harry Fry, Corscombe T

B Noel James Grosvenor Sport S

TIMEFORM VIEW Veteran who has been lightly raced in recent seasons and following another breathing operation, he didn’t threaten when eighth in last month’s Grand Annual at Cheltenham. Eased further 4lb but others look to hold much stronger claims. Cheekpieces tried. TFRHHIII BHA141

5

STENCIL

(GB) (28) 20-5210 D

5 11-7

Br B g Masar (IRE) - Fullofwonder Sean Bowen J

O Mr John P. McManus N. George & A. Zetterholm, France T

B Eminent Kind Ltd

TIMEFORMVIEW Useful2mFrenchhurdlerwhoconfirmedpreviouschasepromisewhenoffthemarkin5-runnernoviceatChepstow(2m)inJanuary(jumpedwell).Notseen to best effect in Grade 2 handicap over further at Cheltenham since and demands of this test promise to see him in much better light. TFRHHHHI BHA139

6 JASKO DES DAMES (FR) (29) 5-02205 7 11-3

Br B g It’s Gino (GER) - Saraska d’Airy (FR) Darragh O’Keeffe J

O Mr Basil Holian Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T

B Aurelien Hamm & Vanessa Frison

TIMEFORMVIEW Quick to establish himself a better chaser than hurdler last season, winning twice Took it up a notch this time around, twice a runner up in the autumn before again filling fifth spot in last month’s Grand Annual at Cheltenham, possibly making effort earlier than ideal. Should go well again. TFRHHHII BHA135

7 SANS BRUIT (FR) (81) 1-66544 CD 8 11-1

Br B g Triple Threat (FR) - Swedish Dancer (IRE) Harry Cobden J

O Mr Andy Peake Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

B Societe D’Entrainement Louis Baudron Morson Group S

TIMEFORMVIEW Ideallysuitedbyfront-runningtacticsandlandedthisforsecondsuccessiveseason12monthsago(from3lblower).Lookstohavehadhiscampaign geared around spring targets again, not unduly punished when fourth at Windsor (2m, soft) in January Well primed for hat-trick bid. TFRHHHHI BHA133

8 HIGHLANDS LEGACY (GB) (81) 34-1221 D 7 11-1

Br B g Kayf Tara - Highland Retreat Jonjo O’Neill Jr J

O Mrs E. J. Wills Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham T

B Sullivan Bloodstock Ltd Wasdell Group S

TIMEFORMVIEW Hasimprovedswitchedtofencesthisseason,scoringatWorcesteronreturnbeforeverygoodsecondplacingsoverC&D/Newbury(strongform). Impressed with way he travelled when going in again at Windsor in January and he’s set to do even better. Big player. TFRHHHHI BHA133

9 RYAN’S ROCKET (IRE) (26) 26U-1U6 D 8 11-0

Br Ch g Jet Away - Smiths Lady (IRE)

Jonathan Burke J

O Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate - Ryan’s Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

B L. Doyle BresBet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful effort to win 2m Newbury handicap chase on his reappearance in November and still tanking along when unseating at Kempton in December

Ran below-par following 11 weeks off back there 4 weeks ago but return to this trip looks a plus and bounce back not out of the question. TFRHHHII BHA132

10 PETIT TONNERRE (FR) (47) B0-1065 D 8 10-12

Br B g Waldpark (GER) - Perpette (FR)

Kevin Brogan J

O Mr John P. McManus Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham T

B A. De La Motte Saint Pierre et al Wasdell Group S

TIMEFORMVIEW Race run to suit when notching career-best success in Listed handicap at the Punchestown Festival last spring. Form figures this season have been uninspiring but no surprise to see a revival back on quicker ground in refitted cheekpieces. TFRHHHII BHA130

11

WONLEG

(IRE) (104)

0-03163 D 6 10-11

Br B g Order of St George (IRE) - Brooklynn (IRE) P. M. O’Brien (5) J

O Herding Cats Partnership Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T

B Mr Jonathan Deacon

TIMEFORMVIEW Justified market support when making a winning handicap chase debut at Wexford (2m) last summer and back on the up following 4 months off when third in a big-field Leopardstown handicap over Christmas. Remains lightly raced so he could yet have more to offer despite career-high mark. TFRHHHII BHA129

12 GRAIN D’OUDAIRIES (FR) (52) 4-15126 D

10 10-10

Br B g Kapgarde (FR) - Miss d’Estruval (FR) Theo Gillard J

O Mr John P. McManus Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

B Comte Michel de Gigou Bluegrass Horse Feeds S

TIMEFORMVIEW Made it 2 wins from first 3 starts this season when scoring at Haydock (19.9f) in December Posted a decent second at Doncaster in January prior to finding less than looked likely off the bridle at Carlisle (2m) 52 days ago Victories to date have come in single-figure fields. TFRHHIII BHA128

13 JAVERT ALLEN (FR) (47) 25-4235 D 7 10-8

Br Ch g No Risk At All (FR) - Une Epoque (FR) Ciaran Gethings J

O HoltMacnabbRobinsonMiltonTuckerWeedon Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton T

B Mr Bruno Vagne Culverhill Farm Racing S

TIMEFORMVIEW Enthusiastic front-runner who made a good start to this campaign when in the frame first 3 outings (including here) and better than he could show when fifth at Kempton in February Return to forcing tactics at 2m can see him to better effect in first-time cheekpieces. Interesting. TFRHHHHH BHA126

14 DR T J ECKLEBURG (IRE) (47)

006333 D BF 8 10-2

Br B g Lawman (FR) - Imtidaad (USA) Conor Ring J

O Mrs Janet Davies Mrs C. Williams, LLancarfan T

B Pat O’Rourke & The Lawman Syndicate Prysg Cyf S

TIMEFORMVIEW Dual winner last season prior to finishing fifth in this race Largely struggled this season and having posted a couple of better efforts from reduced mark in January, he never figured when third at Chepstow (2m, soft) 7 weeks ago Others more persuasive. TFRHHIII BHA119

15

PALAMON (IRE) (9)

606451 6 10-2 (in 4lb ex)

Br Ch g Decorated Knight - Seschat (IRE)

Harry Atkins (7) J

O The Blind Squirrels Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Mr Emir Alkas Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdler/chaser in Ireland for Paul Nolan who left previous exploits for this yard in his wake (well backed in refitted tongue strap) when easily seeing off 8 rivals at Bangor (2 1/2m) 9 days ago, jumping better. This is a lot tougher but interesting his top stable pitch him in here. TFRHHHII BHA111 (+10)

DECLARED RUNNERS 15

2025: SANS BRUIT (FR) 7 10 6 Harry Cobden 5-1 (Paul Nicholls) 14 ran

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 4, 13. Hood worn by No 5, 11. Tongue Strap worn by No 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 12, 15. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 10 14.

Probable S.P’s: 4-1 Sans Bruit (FR), 13-2 Inthepocket (GB), 17-2 Highlands Legacy (GB), 10-1 Stencil (GB), Ryan’s Rocket (IRE), 11-1 Javert Allen (FR), 12-1 Palamon (IRE), 14-1 Jasko des Dames (FR), 18-1 Brookie (IRE), 22-1 Petit Tonnerre (FR), Wonleg (IRE), 40-1 Hercule du Seuil (FR), 50-1 Boothill (IRE), Grain d’Oudairies (FR), 66-1 Dr T J Eckleburg (IRE)

PLAY SMARTER

A cracking renewal of the Red Rum with the vote in favour of JAVERT ALLEN. He was better than he could show when fifth over a longer trip at Kempton 7 weeks ago and a return to forcing tactics in first-time cheekpieces could be just the ticket. Highlands Legacy is going the right way and feared, whilst Sans Bruit, successful in the last 2 renewals, looks to have had his campaign geared around the hat-trick bid. Inthepocket and Stencil complete the dangers.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.JAVERT

Nickel Coin

This year is the 75th anniversary of the last victory for a mare in the Grand National. That achievement belongs to Nickel Coin, who as a foal was so weak she had to be bottle fed. Later sent showjumping to build her confidence, the mare was bought back for former owner Jeffrey Royle with his son’s demob money.

Trained by Jack O’Donoghue at Reigate and ridden by ex-paratrooper and prisoner of war Johnny Bullock, Nickel Coin survived the calamitous start which led to the 1951 race being nicknamed “The Grand Crashional” and was one of only two horses not to fall, winning at 40-1 and beating a future Grand National winner, Royal Tan, by six lengths. It was certainly a day for the ladies because she was led up by Jo Wells, the first girl groom ever to do so for a National winner

Jack O’Donoghue reckoned it was all down to numbers – nine-yearold Nickel Coin was number 29, Jack’s birthday and house number both 29 and he moved to England in 1929.

The stunning trophy manufactured by Boodles was presented to winning owner Jeffrey Royle whose grandson – also Jeffrey – has kindly loaned it to display at Aintree for the anniversary The cup is very well-travelled, having spent much time in New Zealand where it was exhibited every year at Ellerslie racecourse for the Auckland Cup festival.

Only 13 mares have won the Grand National in its long history, and none (yet) in the 21st Century The Nickel Coin Mares’ Bumper is a regular part of the first day of the Aintree Festival.

FACTS & STATS S

OVERVIEW The finale of the Opening Day of the Festival is a Grade 2 National Hunt Flat Race (known to many as a bumper) for four, five and six-year-old fillies and mares who are looking to gain some valuable black type Also now a GBB race, the GBB scheme provides financial incentives and bonuses for qualified fillies and mares who progress through the racing ranks

Seo Linn rounded off the opening day in style for Paddy Twomey and Billy Lee, justifying strong market support with a polished performance. Absent since bolting up in Listed company at Cheltenham in November she travelled sweetly despite the lay-off and moved smoothly into contention She quickened up smartly when it mattered to seal the deal while Gavin Sheehan and La Conquiere emerged as the main threat at big odds, running a strong race in defeat.

ROLL OF HONOUR

PRIZE FUND OF £50,000 £28,135 TO THE WINNER

KEY TRENDS

13 of the last 15 winners were aged five or six

6 of the last 10 winners were trained in the UK

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Only 2 winning favourites in the last 10 years

Trainers and jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years.

TRAINER

Alan King

1 winner

Today Alan Saddles

Martini Majesty & Seven Stars

JOCKEY

Kielan Woods

1 winner Today Kielan Rides

Billey Shiftit

A boutique sale of pointers held in the winners’ enclosure after racing which has sold two 2026 Cheltenham Festival winners and produced numerous Grade 1 winners

Grade 1 Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices' Chase Winner & Aintree Sale Graduate

THE GOFFS NICKEL COIN MARES’

STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT

RACE (CLASS 1) (GRADE 2) (GBB RACE)

for four, five and six yrs old fillies and mares ™ Total prize fund £50000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £21520, 2nd £8870, 3rd £4435, 4th £2220, 5th £1110, 6th £555, 7th £275, 8th £140 (Penalty Value £28135) 1 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton (26 wins from 187 runners, 14%) runs DIVINE DIVA & NAN’S CHOICE

TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (10 wins from 43 runners, 23%) runs DIVINE DIVA & NAN’S CHOICE

LONGEST TRAVELLERS: LENNON GROVE trained by G Cromwell, KILTYBO trained by C Houlihan, MIDNIGHT MUSICAL trained by A McCann, BRAVE LADY & TIKTOK CASEY trained by P Fahy - all Ireland.

colours no horse age st-lb

1 BRAVE LADY (IRE) (250) 3

Br Br m Vadamos (FR) - Rebel Yeats (IRE)

O Damien J. Kelly/Colin Kelly

B Cathal Ennis

5 11-2

Mr Derek O’Connor J

Peter Fahey, Ireland T

TIMEFORM VIEW Vadamos filly who showed promise when third of 15 at Galway on debut in August, doing well having raced with the choke out most of the way. Needs major improvement upped appreciably in grade however. TFRHHIII BHA-

2 BURDS OF A FEATHER (IRE) (48)

U-Fr11 5 11-2

Br B m Westerner - Pollys Deep Ocean (IRE) Tom Broughton J

O Charles Noell and Helen Byrd

B Miss Eleanor Broderick

Max Comley, Sutton Veny T

TIMEFORMVIEW Successful pointer who showed ability and more fitted with a tongue strap when running out a dominant winner of 8-runner bumper at Warwick in February Withdrawn after bolting before start on next intended outing at Sandown. Remains potentially useful. TFRHHHII BHA-

3 DIVINE DIVA (IRE)

(145) 1-3

5 11-2

Br B m Milan - Granny Cash (IRE) Tristan Durrell J

O Mr Christopher Greenall Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Grange Stud The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORMVIEW Successful on sole outing in Irish points and made a pleasing start under Rules when third of 12 in Listed bumper at Cheltenham in November Entitled to build on that but Harry Skelton seemingly prefers Nan’s Choice TFRHHHII BHA-

4 EMERALD QUEST (IRE) (77)

3-1

Br B m Mount Nelson - Cool Quest (IRE)

6 11-2

Richie McLernon J

O Tooting Irish Racing Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke T

B Mrs Catherine Kenneally Kendon Developments S

TIMEFORM VIEW Mount Nelson filly who made a promising debut at Worcester in July 2024 and built on that when recording a smooth success in a first-time tongue strap at Huntingdon on belated reappearance in January That race rather fell apart but she’s clearly promising. TFRHHHII BHA-

5 FAIRY PARK (IRE)

(40) 1-2

Br B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Fairy Hill (IRE)

5 11-2

Brendan Powell J

O Brocade Racing Joe Tizzard, Sherborne T

B Frank Motherway Coral Racing Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Justified favouritism in an Irish point last spring and shaped well behind the re-opposing Princess Day on her first outing under Rules at Newbury in February Open to improvement. TFRHHHHI BHA-

6 KILTYBO (IRE) (32) 5-FU511

Br B m Idaho (IRE) - Jopa (IRE)

5 11-2

Mr Barry Thomas Stone J

O Mr M. Anthony Murphy Conor Houlihan, Ireland T

B Anthony Murphy

TIMEFORMVIEW Benefitted from a less forceful ride than on Rules debut when making all in 6-runner bumper at Thurles in February and defied a penalty with minimum fuss at Naas since Progressing well and worth a shot at this level. TFRHHHII BHA-

7 LADIES DAY (IRE) (123) 1-3222

5 11-2

Br B m Yeats (IRE) - Maryann (IRE) Jack Andrews J

O Eventmasters Racing Tom Ellis, Rugby T

B Mr Charles Walsh Eventmasters Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Won sole start in point bumpers and placed in all 4 bumpers under Rules, including when runner-up to Ti’mamzel at Huntingdon on latest outing in December Faces a much stiffer assignment here, however. TFRHHIII BHA-

8 LENNON GROVE (IRE) (33) 21-5213

5 11-2

Br B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Roc N Roe (IRE) Keith Donoghue J

O Mr J. Fyffe Gavin Cromwell, Ireland T

B Kieran & Breda Lennon JF Kegs (Scotland) Ltd S

TIMEFORMVIEW Point winner who has progressed with each run in this sphere, opening account at the third time of asking at Thurles before a respectable third to re-opposing Ti’mamzel in Listed event at Sandown on latest start. Further improvement needed up further in grade, however. TFRHHHII BHA-

9

MIDNIGHT MUSICAL (IRE)

(117) US-2200 5 11-2

Br Br m Tirwanako (FR) - Boulagloss Lady (IRE) Miss Aine O’Connor J

O Miss Rita Shah A. McCann, Ireland T

B Mountainview Stud Ltd Tipperary

TIMEFORM VIEW Made an encouraging debut at Galway last August but most disappointing since and passed over in first-time headgear TFRHHIII BHA-

10 NAN’S CHOICE (IRE) (54)

41

5 11-2

Br Br m Getaway (GER) - Morning Missy (IRE) Harry Skelton J

O Dermot Hanafin & Stephen McGowan Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Ashroe Stud Ltd Ivy Lodge Farm S

TIMEFORM VIEW Stepped up on debut form (despite still looking a bit green) when landing 7-runner bumper at Gowran for Conor Houlihan in February asserting final 1f Has since transferred to Dan Skelton’s yard and should have more to offer up in grade TFRHHHII BHA-

11 ONE DIMENSIONAL (GB) (33) 524

6 11-2

Br B m Frontiersman - Viking Mistress David Bass J

O S W Racing Max Comley, Sutton Veny T

B Springfield Farm Partnership

TIMEFORMVIEW Exceededexpectationswhenfifthof14toTi’mamzelinListedbumperatHuntingdonondebutinDecember Shapedwellfromanunpromising position at Ascot next time but was disappointing behind Seven Stars at Hereford on latest start and has plenty to find in this grade TFRHHIII BHA-

12 PEACE BELLE (GB) (37) 13

Br B m Massaat (IRE) - Ssafa

5 11-2

Sean Quinlan J

O Hzs Stainless Steel Jennie Candlish, Leek T

B Richard Kent & Clare Lloyd Equine Products UK Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Made a successful debut at Hexham last summer in a race that tested speed. Found things tougher under a penalty 6 months on at Newcastle though, and this is even harder TFRHHIII BHA-

13 PRINCESS

DAY

(IRE) (40) 111

5 11-2

Br Gr m Success Days (IRE) - Hayes Princess (IRE) Lorcan Williams J

O Gordon & Su Hall Jeremy Scott, Dulverton T

B Annie Twomey Brendon Powerwashers S

TIMEFORM VIEW €170,000 purchase after landing an Irish point last spring and has looked an excellent prospect in winning both bumper starts too, most recently with a strong-travelling display at Newbury Leading contender TFRHHHHH BHA-

14 SEVEN STARS (GB) (33) 3-31

Br B m Passing Glance - Call Me A Star

5 11-2

Tom Cannon J

O Pitchall Stud Partnership Alan King, Barbury Castle T

B D. and Mrs Holmes Goodwin Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Passing Glance mare who has improved with each run, justifying support in tidy fashion after 3 months off in 14-runner event at Hereford in March. This demands more, though. TFRHHHII BHA-

15 TI’MAMZEL (FR) (33) 121

5 11-2

Br B m No Risk At All (FR) - Etoile de Mogador (FR) Caoilin Quinn J

O Mr Paul Hunt Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham T

B Mr Anthony Gourama & Mr Timothe Gourama Heart Of The South Bloodstock S

TIMEFORM VIEW €105,000 No Risk At All filly who showed much improved form to gain a second win at Listed level in 10-runner event at Sandown last month, leading on bridle 2f out and well on top finish. Big chance if proving as effective on less testing ground. TFRHHHHI BHA-

16 TIKTOK CASEY (IRE) (67) P313

5 11-2

Br B m Poet’s Word (IRE) - Black Money Mark Walsh J

O Klas Form Limited Peter Fahey, Ireland T

B J.P. Farrell

TIMEFORMVIEW Bred to stay well and overcame the emphasis on speed to take 15-runner bumper at Naas on debut in December albeit better placed than most. Showed much improved form when third in Grade 2 at Leopardstown since but it remains to be seen if she’s as effective under less testing conditions. TFRHHHII BHA-

17 BILLEY SHIFTIT (GB) (43) 6 4 10-8

Br Gr f Jack Hobbs - Wassailing Queen Kielan Woods J

O Get A Move On Please

Keiran Burke, Whitcombe T

B Barrow Hill Pugsley Revill S

TIMEFORM VIEW Hinted at ability at Wincanton on debut in February but will surely be outclassed at this level. TFRHIIII BHA-

18 IT WOULD BE YOU (GB) (36) 1 4 10-8

Br B f Nathaniel (IRE) - Pink Sheets (IRE)

Darragh O’Keeffe J

O Mr R. Kent Jennie Candlish, Leek T

B Mickley Bruce Costelloe & Lenihan

Equine Products UK Ltd S

TIMEFORMVIEW Nathaniel filly who picked up quite takingly from an unpromising position to make a winning start in 8-runner bumper at Catterick last month. Takes on much better company now but seems sure to improve TFRHHHII BHA-

19 MARTINI MAJESTY (GB) (54) 1 4 10-8

Br Ch f Planteur (IRE) - Jolie Comtesse (FR)

O The Ringers

Tom Bellamy J

Alan King, Barbury Castle T

B Ross Alberto Barbury Shooting School S

TIMEFORM

VIEW Planteur filly who made a successful debut in 9-runner bumper at Ascot in February quickening to lead over 1f out. That form has taken a few knocks but she’s likely to improve. TFRHHHII BHA-

20 ROXY RUSSET (GB) (33) 0F2

Br B f Passing Glance - Rosemary Russet

4 10-8

Jonathan Burke J O Treble Barrels of Courage Charlie Longsdon, Chipping Norton T B Claire Hart

TIMEFORM VIEW Showed no ill effects from her Huntingdon fall when runner-up to Seven Stars at Hereford last month. Has a lot more on her plate at this much higher level, however. TFRHHIII BHA-

DECLARED RUNNERS 20

2025: SEO LINN (IRE) 5 11 2 W J Lee 15-8 (P Twomey) 20 ran

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 9. Tongue Strap worn by No 2, 4.

Probable S.P’s: 4-1 Princess Day (IRE), 13-2 Ti’mamzel (FR), 10-1 Nan’s Choice (IRE), 11-1 Burds of A Feather (IRE), 14-1 Kiltybo (IRE), 16-1 Emerald Quest (IRE), Fairy Park (IRE), 18-1 Seven Stars (GB), 20-1 Lennon Grove (IRE), Tiktok Casey (IRE), 22-1 Divine Diva (IRE), Martini Majesty (GB), 25-1 It Would Be You (GB), 28-1 Ladies Day (IRE), 50-1 Brave Lady (IRE), Peace Belle (GB), 66-1 Midnight Musical (IRE), One Dimensional (GB), Roxy Russet (GB), 200-1 Billey Shiftit (GB) PLAY SMARTER

An up-to-scratch renewal of the Nickel Coin. PRINCESS DAY looks more than up to this level, having maintained her unbeaten record in stylish fashion at Newbury in February, and is taken to stamp her class on proceedings. Ti’mamzel is already a dual Listed winner and must be taken seriously for all that less testing conditions are an unknown, while Fairy Park and Nan’s Choice are others to view positively TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.PRINCESS DAY (IRE) 2.TI’MAMZEL (FR) 3.FAIRY PARK (IRE)

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TODAY’S RACE CONDITIONS

First Race 1.45 - THE BOODLES ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £61897 to the winning horse The second to receive £23320 the third £11671, the fourth £5830 the fifth £2926, the sixth £1463, the seventh £726 and the eighth £374. for juvenile four yrs old, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 110 or more by the BHA Handicapper taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation.. Enter by noon, April 3rd and pay £550 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 11st 2lb each Fillies allowed 7lb BOODLES have generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the Winning Owner, Trainer and Jockey and a cash prize to the groom in charge of the best turned out horse All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BOODLES. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code 14 entries at £550Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £47344; Second £19514; Third £9757; Fourth £4884; Fifth £2442; Sixth £1221; Seventh £605; Eighth £308. (Penalty Value £61897) A SEE PAGE 18 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 2.20 - THE WILLIAM HILL MANIFESTO NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £67524 to the winning horse The second to receive £25440 the third £12732, the fourth £6360 and the fifth £3192. for novice five yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 120 or more by the BHA Handicapper taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to entry Enter by noon, April 3rd and pay £600 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 11st 7lb each Mares allowed 7lb WILLIAM HILL has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the Winning Owner, Trainer and Jockey and a cash prize to the groom in charge of the best turned out horse All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of WILLIAM HILL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code 15 entries at £600 - Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £51648; Second £21288; Third £10644; Fourth £5328; Fifth £2664. (Penalty Value £67524) A SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 2.55 - THE RACING WELFARE BOWL STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £140325 to the winning horse The second to receive £52775, the third £26375, the fourth £13175 and the fifth £6625. for five yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 130 or more by the BHA Handicapper taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to entry Enter by noon, April 3rd and pay £1250 stake, Supplementary Entry by noon, April 6th and pay £8280 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 8lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 10lb Mares allowed 7lb RACING WELFARE has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning Owner, Trainer & Jockey In addition, a cash prize will be presented to the person in charge of the best turned out horse The Bowl will be presented to the winning owner, to be returned to the racecourse by March 1st, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of RACING WELFARE. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code 11 entries at £1250 - Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £107400; Second £44200; Third £22100; Fourth £11050; Fifth £5525. (Penalty Value £140325) A SEE PAGE 32 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 3.30 - THE RANDOX FOXHUNTERS’ OPEN HUNTERS’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £24155 to the winning horse The second to receive £12075, the third £6045, the fourth £3020 the fifth £1510 the sixth £750 the seventh £380 and the eighth £190 for six yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating of 100 or more and which, after October 2023, and before March 17th, 2026, have finished first, second or third in a Hunters’ steeple chase on two occasions OR have finished first, second or third in a Hunters’ steeple chase on one occasion and have won either another steeple chase (Hunters’ steeple chases included) or, during the current Point-to-Point season, an Open Pointto-Point steeple chase. Horses which are not qualified for a rating in Great Britain, Ireland or France may also be entered. Such horses may be eligible provided the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances up to and including the day prior to confirmation would merit a minimum rating of 100 The decision of the BHA Handicapper shall be final.. Enter by noon, March 17th and pay £75 stake Confirm by noon, April 3rd and pay £175, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 12st each Mares allowed 7lb To be ridden by Amateur Jockeys holding ‘Category B’ permits to ride or Amateur Jockeys riding under the provisions of Rule (B)31.. The winning owner will be presented with The Waley-Cohen Trophy and the winning jockey will be presented with a Challenge Trophy in memory of Sir Guy Cunard. Both are to be returned to the Racecourse by March 1st, next year RANDOX has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and groom. A cash prize will also be presented to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race The Worshipful Company of Farriers will present a memento to the owner and farrier of the best shod horse in this race, the judging of which will take place during the pre-race veterinary inspection. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of RANDOX. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code (Horses’ ratings will be allotted by the BHA Senior Handicapper following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation.) The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraphs 16 to 19 of the Running Requirements Code for the purposes of this race to provide that horses will be qualified to run if they are qualified in Ireland and have a Hunters Certificate currently registered by the Stewards of the Irish National Hunt Steeple Chase Committee and which has not been cancelled. Please note for the purposes of this race, Open Mares’ Steeple Chases and Open Lightweight Steeple Chases at Point-to-Point meetings in Ireland are considered equivalent to Open Steeple Chases at Point-to-Point meetings in Great Britain. The British Horseracing Authority has modified Rule (I)10 and the Race Administration

Code to provide that, if it is necessary to do so, elimination of horses from this race will be determined by the BHA Handicapper All entries in this race will have their suitability assessed by the Grand National Review Panel and if necessary, The British Horseracing Authority may exercise its powers under Rule (I)2 to refuse to allow a horse duly entered to run when it has reason to be concerned about the horse’s suitability for the race Any horse for whom a Confirmation of Entry has been submitted will not be permitted to run if it subsequently runs in any other race including Point-to-Point races. All runners must be presented to the BHA Veterinary Officers for a pre-race veterinary inspection and must pass the inspection. Any horse considered unfit to run will be withdrawn by order of the Stewards under Rule (H)7.4. Horses may be presented for inspection on the day of racing as advised. Subject to the discretion of the Stewards, any horse which is not presented for a veterinary inspection by the time advised will not be permitted to run under Rule (H)7.4. A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records and the requested Veterinary Information are not submitted by the required deadlines. 31 entries, 4 at £75, 27 at £250 - Closed March 17th, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £20995; Second £10495; Third £5250; Fourth £2625; Fifth £1310; Sixth £655; Seventh £330; Eighth £165. (Penalty Value £24155) A HC

SEE PAGE 38 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 4.05 - THE WILLIAM HILL AINTREE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE)

Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £140325 to the winning horse The second to receive £52775, the third £26375, the fourth £13175, the fifth £6625, the sixth £3300 and the seventh £1700 for four yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 130 or more by the BHA Handicapper taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to entry Enter by noon, April 3rd and pay £1250 stake, Supplementary Entry by noon, April 6th and pay £10340 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 4-y-o 11st; 5-y-o and up 11st 10lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb WILLIAM HILL has generously sponsored this race They will present a memento to the winning Owner, Trainer & Jockey In addition, a cash prize will be presented to the person in charge of the best turned out horse The winning owner will be also presented with a bronze trophy, to be returned to the Racecourse by March 1st, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of WILLIAM HILL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Horses will be led past the stands and then allowed to canter to the start 10 entries at £1250 - Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £107400; Second £44200; Third £22100; Fourth £11050; Fifth £5525; Sixth £2750; Seventh £1400 (Penalty Value £140325) A SEE PAGE 46 FOR THIS RACE.

Sixth Race 4.40 - THE CLOSE BROTHERS RED RUM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £56270 to the winning horse The second to receive £21200 the third £10610 the fourth £5300, the fifth £2660, the sixth £1330, the seventh £660 and the eighth £340 for five yrs old and upwards. £500 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £100 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £400 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Penalties, after March 28th, 2026, a winner of a steeple chase 4lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. CLOSE BROTHERS have generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the Winning Owner, Trainer and Jockey and a cash prize to the groom in charge of the best turned out horse The winning owner will also be presented with a bronze trophy, to be returned to Aintree Racecourse by March 1st, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CLOSE BROTHERS. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 24 entries, at £500 - Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £43040; Second £17740; Third £8870; Fourth £4440; Fifth £2220; Sixth £1110; Seventh £550; Eighth £280 (Penalty Value £56270) Weights raised 14lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable SEE PAGE 52 FOR THIS RACE.

Seventh Race 5.15 - THE GOFFS NICKEL COIN MARES’ STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code £28135 to the winning horse The second to receive £10600, the third £5305, the fourth £2650, the fifth £1330, the sixth £665, the seventh £330 and the eighth £170. for four, five and six yrs old fillies and mares only, which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat races or French AQPS Flat races. Horses are not to have run in more than three previous races, or four races if one of the previous runs was in a Pattern or Listed Race during the current season. Enter by noon, April 3rd and pay £250 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 7th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 8lb; 5-y-o and 6-y-o 11st 2lb Penalties, a winner of a Grade 1 or Grade 2 Grade 2 race 4lb GOFFS UK has generously sponsored this race They will present a memento to the winning Owner, Trainer & Jockey In addition, a cash prize will be presented to the person in charge of the best turned out horse The winning owner will be presented with a Perpetual Trophy to be returned to the racecourse by 1st March, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of GOFFS UK. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code PLEASE NOTE part 15A of the Running Requirements Code, for National Hunt Flat race qualification criteria. ELIMINATION PROCEDURE - Part 21 of the Race Administration Code 22 entries at £250 - Closed April 3rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £21520; Second £8870; Third £4435; Fourth £2220; Fifth £1110; Sixth £555; Seventh £275; Eighth £140 (Penalty Value £28135) 1 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10 A SEE PAGE 56 FOR THIS RACE.

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