Aintree Racecard - Thursday 3rd April by Weatherbys

WELCOMES YOU

Welcome to the 2025 Randox Grand National

It is a privilege to welcome you to Aintree for one of the most thrilling sporting spectacles in the world—the Randox Grand National.

At Randox, we believe in making the most of life’s biggest moments, and good health is key to doing just that. Through Randox Health, we provide world-leading diagnostic testing that helps individuals take control of their health, detecting potential issues early and promoting long-term wellbeing. With clinics across the UK and Ireland access to advanced health insights has never been easier Your Health, Our Science

On behalf of Randox, I would like to extend my 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

Hello and a very warm welcome to Aintree Racecourse for the first day of the Randox Grand National Festival.

This meeting is the highlight of our year and an event that we plan all yearround. We’re delighted that you’re here with us to experience the magic of Aintree Racecourse and to be a part of the greatest story in sport. Over the next three days we have 21 races to look forward to, with appearances expected from some of the best racehorses from across the UK and Ireland. Today we have four Grade One contests to savour as well as the feature race over the Grand National fences at 4.05pm, The Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase

While every race on today’s card offers something special, we’re particularly excited to see Constitution Hill and Lossiemouth square off against one another in The William Hill Aintree Hurdle, which is undoubtedly set to be one of the most memorable races of the week.

Throughout the day we have a fantastic array of entertainment planned for you, with live performances across The Red Rum Garden, Equestrian Centre, Pravha Bar, and various other areas of the racecourse Don’t miss the Punter’s Panel in the Winner’s Enclosure before racing at 12:25pm, where our expert panel will share their insights and predictions on today’s runners.

We also have a special anniversary to celebrate today – The Barrie Wells Trust and its incredible Box4Kids initiative. This year marks the 10th anniversary of The Jockey Club’s partnership with Barrie and his team, who have worked tirelessly to provide VIP experiences for seriously ill or physically challenged children and their families. We are delighted to welcome those celebrating this milestone with us today.

Following the racing at 5.30pm, the Goffs Horses in Training Sale will take place in the Parade Ring. Whether you're in the market to buy or simply appreciate the excitement, this event is always a captivating spectacle and well worth sticking around for.

As always, this event wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our partners, and we’d like to extend our sincere thanks to them. Randox continues its ninth year as the headline sponsor of this iconic event, and we are deeply grateful for their ongoing support. We’d also like to thank The EBC Group, Boodles, The Brooklands Watch Company, William Hill, Close Brothers and Goffs for their contributions to today’s races.

We would also like to thank all of our hugely valued racegoers who are here today and for your ongoing support.

With two more days of racing to come, we are certain that Opening Day will be just the beginning of three unforgettable days of world-class racing and entertainment. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to welcoming you back very soon.

Julian Taylor Dickon White Chairman, Aintree Racecourse North West Regional Director

TODAY'S RACE SPONSORS

RACEDAY OFFICIALS

Stewards

Shaun Parker (Chief Steward)

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

Beth Dowswell, Ali Galliers-Pratt, Nathan Green, Robert McCarthy, Adrian Sharpe

Starters

Robert Supple

Seamus O'Neill

Stuart Turner

Equine Welfare & Integrity Officers

Graham Gray, Joanna Vickers, Linda Porter, Lisa Cook, Melanie Swarbrick, Michelle Maughan, Louise Neale Vince McKevitt, Tracey Hamilton,

Rachel Barnett

Judges

Nick Bostock & David Hicks

Clerks Of The Scales

Wayne Burnell & Claudia Marelli

Handicapper

Matt Gardner

Veterinary Officers

Matt Butterell, Graham Potts, Kate Maxwell, Howard Newitt

Nurses

Darron Lomax & Karen Bailey

Regional Director - North West

Dickon White

Clerks of the Course - Aintree

Jon Pullin, Sulekha Varma & Daniel Cooper

Regional Head of Marketing

James Rennard

Senior Communications Executive

Sophie-May Clarke

Regional Head of Operations

Stephen Mansfield

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, Graham Potts

Seamus Miller, John Spencer, Kate Sumner

Medical Officers

Dr John Murray Dr Ian Roberts, Dr John Edwards, Dr Louise Williams, Dr Mike Unwin, Dr Owen Richards, Dr Emily Hill, Dr Helen Blakey Physios

Laura Newton & Cathryn Woodall

Commentators

Simon Holt, Alan Howes, David Fitzgerald

Betting Ring Managers

Mark Ryan, Neil Pateman, Darren Irving, Malcolm Hart

Chairman

Julian Taylor

Clerk Of The Course

Sulekha Varma

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Dickon White

Group Head of Hospitality

Claire Leonard

Group Head of Conference and Events

Charlotte Jones

Partnerships Account Manager

Liz Jacob

Sales Service Manager

Lucy McCaffrey

Ticketing & Customer Relations Manager

Morgan Hodgkiss

INFORMATION

ENTERTAINMENT

OPENING DAY

GATES OPEN 11.00AM

RACE 1: 13.45 RACE 2: 14.20 RACE 3: 14.55

RACE 4: 15.30 RACE 5: 16.05 RACE 6: 16.40 RACE 7: 17.15

Red Rum Garden Stage 11.30 - 13.00

DJ Liam McKeown

13.00 - 13.40

DJ Sam Edwards w/ sax & bongos 13.50 - 14.15

DJ Kaci Lea 14.25 - 14.50

DJ Sam Edwards 15.00 - 15.25

DJ Dean Peet w/ sax & bongos 15.35 - 16.00

DJ Kaci Lea w/ sax & bongos 16.10 - 16.35

DJ Tommy McFadden w/ Sax & bongos 16.45 - 17.10

DJ tbc w/ sax & bongos 17.20 - 18.30

Horse Auction

Bandstand 10.45 - 11.30

Sefton Arms

Stray Horns 12:00 - 12:45 13:10 - 13:40 14.25 - 14.50 Fat Cats 15.35 - 16.00 17.20 - 17.45

10.55 - 11.25

Rag Tag Misfits 12.00 - 13.00

Pravha 11.15 - 11.45 Fat Cats 12.00 - 12.25 12.50 - 13.15

Sunloch 12.45 - 13.35 Brothers of

13.50 - 14.15

- 15.25

- 16.00 16.45 - 17.10

Garden Club

Toni James Duo

Danny Black

Dom Townsend

The Jockey Club would like to thank our Group Partners for their support in 2025

RACING EXPLAINED

B g Authorized (IRE) - Polysheba (FR) P. Townend

Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins, Ireland

Ronald Huggins & George William Tiney

TIMEFORMVIEW 8-y-o who displayed deep reserves of stamina when taking last season’s Irish National. Took his

1. FORM

ARD EXPLAINED

EXPERT VIEW

A quick way to see a horse's past A way see a 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 dist

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

BF = Was a beaten favourite = a

MORE INF TION 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 out a race by a loose horse ce a loose hor

B = Horse was brought down = was do

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 =

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

How the experts rate the hor chances: w experts rate

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

ra the the bette the hor

3. Timeform view and Time rm TFR rating.

4. HORSE'S TRAINER & THEIR LOCATION

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

JOCKEY

summary fo

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

HER USEFUL

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

6. Owner's colours worn by the Jockey worn Saddlecloth 8. Horse's name Hor 9. Days since the horse last run Days 10. Horse's age (stone and Ibs) and 12. The horse's breeding – father (sire) – father and mother and mother 13. Horse's owner 14. Horse's breeder 15. Birthplace of horse (outside GB) of horse

BETTING EXPLAINED

Select your horse. Note their name and saddlecloth number

Choose your bet. 'To win' or 'each-way' are popular types of bet.

'To win' is for your horse to come first.

'Each-way' is for your horse to come first or to be placed. It's two bets, so '£2 each-way' = £4 total bet.

Decide the amount – or stake – you are comfortable to bet.

Place your bet. There are different places to bet on course; The Tote, racecourse bookmakers, betting shop or online Each option offers a different experience

Collect. Once 'Weighed-in' has been announced, present your betting slip and collect any winnings.

A DAY AT THE RACES EXPLAINED

Explore and familiarise yourself with the racecourse

Find out the time of the first race in the racecard. Races are about 30 minutes apart and provide a natural focus for your day.

Visit the Parade Ring around 20 minutes before each race This is your chance to see the horses up-close Look for signs of their fitness and attitude A glossy coat, pricked ears and alert nature are considered good.

Watch at least one race by the railings, as close to the finishing post as you can get.

RACEHORSES EXPLAINED

Jump horses are generally sturdier and bigger than Flat horses. Key attributes are endurance and strength.

Flat horses are lighter and more elegant for shorter, faster races. They use a different set of muscles, so muscle definition varies just like in human athletes.

On average, Jump horses race - or 'travel' - at 30mph.

Flat horses are faster at 35mph and the best exceed 40mph during a race

THE 2025 RANDOX GRAND NATIONALTROPHY

ACelebrationofTradition,Innovation,andCraftsmanship

The Randox Grand National is more than just a race—it’s a historic test of endurance, skill, and determination, watched by millions across the globe Designed in collaboration with prestigious British jeweller Boodles, this year’s trophy is a masterpiece, blending the traditions of Aintree with the pioneering spirit of Randox.

ATradition of Unique Design

Since becoming title sponsor, Randox has commissioned a new trophy design each year, ensuring that every Grand National winner takes home an exclusive, one-of-a-kind piece of history

Symbolism in Design

The 2025 Randox Grand National Trophy incorporates meaningful elements that celebrate both the history of the race and Randox’s pioneering work in healthcare:

Molecular Structure & DNA Helix – A nod to Randox’s revolutionary diagnostics and biochip technology, representing the science of life and the pursuit of excellence

Horseshoe– At the heart of the trophy, the horseshoe represents the horse’s unwavering power and determination as it powers through one of the world’s most demanding races.

Aintree’s Iconic Landmarks – The trophy also features subtle details paying homage to Aintree Racecourse, including its legendary fences, forever tying it to the home of the world’s greatest steeplechase

ATrophyWorthyof Champions

This year’s Randox Grand National Trophy stands as a powerful symbol of victory, resilience, and sporting greatness For the winning connections, it will serve as a lasting reminder of their triumph in the most challenging and celebrated race in the world.

As the horses and jockeys prepare to make history once again on April 5, 2025, the unveiling of this remarkable trophy adds to the anticipation, ensuring that the legacy of the Randox Grand National continues to shine—where tradition meets innovation, and champions are forever remembered.

The Randox Grand National trophy will be on display outside the Weighing Room between 12.30-1.15 so go and get a picture with it.

FACTS & STATS S

THE EBC GROUP MANIFESTO NOVICES' CHASE

RACE DESCRIPTION

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 Golden Miller at the Cheltenham Festival on their previous start Like Manifesto, who won two Grand Nationals, horses need to be tough at the finish, which has now been the opening race at the meeting for the past nine years.

IL ETAIT TEMPS

Ginny's Destiny took them along at a fair gallop in last year's opener Eventual winner Il Etait Temps was given an ice-cold ride at the back of the seven-strong field, in the hands of Paul Townend The pair never looked in any danger and Townend decided to take his mount wide as they switched into the home turn Surging past the Turners' one-two from last year, Grey Dawning and Ginny's Destiny, they won a shade cosily in the end by a commanding nine lengths. Il Etait Temps showed a better attitude towards his fences to improve emphatically on his third in the Arkle Trophy.

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

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £120,000

£67,524 TO THE WINNER

ROLL OF HONOUR 2015-2024

All 15 winners were beaten on their latest outing

11 of the last 15 winners contested either the Arkle (6) or Turners (5) at Cheltenham

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

Willie Mullins

1 winner

Today Willie Saddles

Impaire Et Passe

12 of the previous 15 winners had run 8 times or less over hurdles

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

JOCKEY

Paul Townend

1 winner

Today Paul Rides

Impaire Et Passe

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, 6th £1332, 7th £660, 8th £336. (Penalty Value £67524)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton (23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs BOOMBAWN TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (8 wins from 12 runners, 67%) runs IMPAIRE ET PASSE LONGEST TRAVELLERS: CROKE PARK trained by G Elliott, IMPAIRE ET PASSE trained by W P Mullins & FASCILE MODE trained by T Mullins - all Ireland.

1 BOOMBAWN (IRE) (40) 203152 CD 8 11-7

Br B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Well Clad (IRE)

Harry Skelton J

O Bullen-Smith & Faulks Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Mr Rory O’Toole The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdler and even better over fences, bagging the Grade 2 Rising Stars at Wincanton in November Made a mistake at a crucial stage when well held in John Francome at Newbury later that month but soon back on track when runner-up to the reopposing Rubaud in the Pendil at Kempton in February TFRHHHII BHA145

2 CROKE PARK (IRE)

(60) 0P-1112 D 7 11-7

Br B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Toledana (FR)

Sam Ewing J

O Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

B A. V. Bloodstock Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Has made a cracking start over fences this term, taking his record to 3-3 - the latest pair at Grade 1 level - when edging out Better Days Ahead in the Fort Leney at Leopardstown (24.4f good to soft) over Christmas. Unable to live with Ballyburn at the DRF but should be bang there again. TFRHHHHI BHA154

3 FASCILE MODE

(IRE) (33) 01F6PF 7 11-7

Br B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - C’Est La Mode (IRE) Danny Mullins J

O Mrs H. Mullins Thomas Mullins, Ireland T

B Mrs H. Mullins

TIMEFORM VIEW Made a winning start in this sphere at Punchestown in October but it’s fair to say things haven’t gone as planned since failing to complete on 3 of his next 4 starts. Outsider at this level. TFRHIIII BHA136

4 GIDLEIGH

PARK (GB) (76) 1116-P1 D 7 11-7

Br B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Lindeman (IRE) Bryan Carver J

O The Eyre Family Harry Fry, Corscombe T

B Mr & Mrs R. Kelvin-Hughes Grosvenor Sport S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful winner of 3 of his 4 starts over hurdles last season. Bombed out on return at Kempton (had irregular heartbeat) but got his career firmly back on track when making all in Grade 2 at Windsor (16.2f) in January, beating subsequent Cheltenham Festival winner Caldwell Potter. Better to come TFRHHHHI BHA153

5 IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR)

(60) 311-113 CD 7 11-7

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 winner over hurdles, including Grade 1 at this meeting 12 months ago and has made a smooth transition to chasing, scoring again at the top level in 7-runner Faugheen Novice Chase at Limerick. Had winning run ended when third at the DRF and now first-time headgear is applied TFRHHHHH BHA157

6 JANGO BAIE (FR) (23) 222-121 C

6 11-7

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 TIMEFORM VIEW Smart novice hurdler and has quickly made up into a better chaser winning at Cheltenham on first attempt. Narrowly denied next time but conjured a remarkable run to get up close home in 5-runner Arkle last month. Return to 2 1/2m a big plus, but he did have a tough race TFRHHHHI BHA159

7 MARK OF GOLD (GB) (27) P-21331

8 11-7

Br B g Golden Horn - Polly’s Mark (IRE) Caoilin Quinn J

O Stevie Fisher & Friends Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham T

B The Kathryn Stud KM Elite Products Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Prolifichurdlerwho madetheperfectstartin thisspherewhenlanding a19fAscotGrade2justbeforeChristmas(shadefortunate).ThirdinGradedevents next 2 outings before resuming winning ways courtesy of a good round of jumping on handicap bow at Exeter last month. Faces a stiff task here. TFRHHIII BHA144

8 RUBAUD (FR) (40) 6-11F21 D

7 11-7

Br B g Air Chief Marshal (IRE) - Fulgence (FR) Harry Cobden J

O Mr Brendan McManus Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

B B. Decouz & S.C.E.A. Du Bas Bugey Morson Group S

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart hurdler winning first 2 starts this season. Quickly reached same level over fences when length second to L’eau du Sud in Warwick Grade 2 in February and went one better with a gutsy display from the front in the Pendil at Kempton (20.5f soft) since Will need to step up to feature. TFRHHHII BHA149

9

THE

KALOOKI KID

(GB) (61) 405-211 D 7 11-7

Br Gr g Gentlewave (IRE) - Wild Blueberry (IRE) Danny McMenamin J O Eddie Melville & Kenny Haughey

B Hall Farm Stud

Nicky Richards, Greystoke T

Equine Products Ltd (Equine Nutrition) S

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner last season and already proved himself a better chaser this term, confirming promise of reappearance second when readily going one better in a 19f Doncaster handicap in December Followed up from 7lb higher at Musselburgh last time but this demands significantly more. TFRHHIII BHA138

DECLARED RUNNERS 9 2024: IL ETAIT TEMPS (FR) 6 11 7 P Townend 3-1 (W P Mullins) 5 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 5.

Probable S.P’s: 11-4 Jango Baie (FR), 10-3 Impaire Et Passe (FR), 4-1 Croke Park (IRE), 5-1 Gidleigh Park (GB), 12-1 Rubaud (FR), 28-1 Boombawn (IRE), The Kalooki Kid (GB), 40-1 Mark of Gold (GB), 150-1 Fascile Mode (IRE)

A mouth-watering start to the Grand National Festival 2025 with the suggestion being IMPAIRE ET PASSE, who edged a 3-way photo in the Aintree Hurdle on this card 12 months ago and Willie Mullins’ 7-y-o can get back on the up in first-time headgear returned to this track following a break. This return to 2 1/2m will suit Jango Baie, so he heads up the opposition having found an extra gear to take the Arkle last month, with Gidleigh Park and Croke Park another couple worth considering, too. TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR) 2.JANGO BAIE (FR) 3.GIDLEIGH PARK

PLAY SMARTER

TODAY'S RACE SPONSOR

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.

Top Price Guarantee on the ﬁrst ITV race

Every day of the Randox Grand Na

and Na al Festiv

Valid from 12:00 day before until race start on Race Winner market Comparison with selected online competitors (excludes price boosts). Won’t match exchange ‘lay’ price. UK & Ire only. Full T&Cs apply.

Open to all professional and amateur jockeys licenced to ride in Britain Points based competition Points

FACTS & STATS S

BOODLES ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O JUVENILE HURDLE

RACE DESCRIPTION

Only the third Grade 1 in the English calendar for juvenile hurdlers, the Anniversary was handed it's top level status in 2005 Prior to this, any Triumph winner trying to complete the Cheltenham-Aintree double would be forced to carry a penalty, and since then, the Triumph has really been the obvious starting point when assessing this race French-bred juveniles have a fine record in the race so look out for the likes of Live Conti and Mambonumberfive in this renewal, whilst in recent years we have seen fillies performing well which could benefit Murcia.

2024 WINNER

SIR GINO

Sir Gino, who skipped the Cheltenham Festival due to his stable being under a cloud strutted his stuff to win the Boodles Anniversary last year Well fancied for the Triumph Hurdle, he left his supporters wondering what might have been with a remarkable return to the track Remaining unbeaten, Nico de Boinville took a keen hold on one of Nicky Henderson's stable stars but asserted his dominance over the last to score in style by three lengths. Lacking fluency over his hurdles gave a ready chance to Kargese, who was too green throughout, but the pair pulled well-clear

ROLL OF HONOUR

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

KEY TRENDS

15 of the past 19 winners had won a Graded contest earlier in the season

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

Willie Mullins

2 winners

Today Willie Saddles

Willy De Houelle & Murcia

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF

£61,897 TO THE WINNER

10 of the last 16 winners had started their career in France

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

JOCKEY

Harry Cobden 1 winner

Today Harry Rides Aviemore

HURDLE RACE

(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 (23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs LIVE CONTI TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (8 wins from 12 runners, 67%) runs MURCIA & WILLY DE HOUELLE

FANCY THAT: W P Mullins won this race in 2016 and 2023. The stable runs MURCIA & WILLY DE HOUELLE today.

1 AVIEMORE (GB) (32) 311 11-2

Br B g Kodiac - Raincall

Harry Cobden J

O HIghclere Thoroughbred Racing - Warhol Harry Derham, Newbury T

B Rockcliffe Stud Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful 10f winner on Flat and has progressed with each run over hurdles, supplementing his Warwick success in 9-runner juvenile at Huntingdon (15.8f), forging clear Has more on his plate here, however

2 COCONUT GROVE (FR) (214)

11-2

Br Gr or Ro g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Anabasis (GER) Bryan Carver J

O The Jago Family Partnership Harry Fry, Corscombe T

B S.A.R.L. Haras de Hus Grosvenor Sport S

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to useful hurdler/chaser Adjali. Showed fair form when winning 1 1/2m event only outing on Flat in France for Luciano Vitabile but is very much pitched in the deep end on hurdling debut. TFRHHIII BHA-

3 FILIBUSTERING (GB) (33) 1 11-2

Br B g Postponed (IRE) - Mystique Paul O’Brien J

O Dr V. M. G. Ferguson Harry Derham, Newbury T

B Mr Jeremy Gompertz & P Milmo Boodle Hatfield Llp S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful handicapper on the Flat (stays 16.5f) and looked one of the most natural juvenile hurdlers seen in Britain all season when impressive winner of 6-runner juvenile at Kelso (16.2f), jumping impeccably in front and quickening right away. Sure to go on to better things. TFRHHHHI BHA-

4 GIBBS ISLAND (GB) (20) 11P D

11-2

Br Ch g Iffraaj - Dream Book Stan Sheppard J

O RaceShare - Gibbs Island Tom Lacey, Woolhope T

B Smarden Thoroughbreds RaceShare S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat winner for Andrew Oliver in Ireland and made an excellent start over hurdles, bagging maiden at Sedgefield and Victor Ludorum at Haydock for his new handler However, raced too freely when pulled up in the Triumph Hurdle last time Hood goes on. TFRHHHII BHA132

5 GIVE IT TO ME OJ (GB) (34) 321

Br B g Time Test - Matron of Honour (IRE)

11-2

Caoilin Quinn J

O Mr Omar Jackson Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham T

B Mr W. A. Tinkler KM Elite Products Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful maiden on the Flat who made it third time lucky over hurdles in fine style in 8-runner event at Newbury (16.3f), travelling powerfully to lead 2 out. Remains with potential but needs plenty more now upped markedly in grade TFRHHIII BHA122

6 LIVE CONTI (FR) (50) 11

Br B g Cokoriko (FR) - Valdivia (IRE)

O G Mason,J Hales,P Hogath,,Sir A Ferguson

11-2

Harry Skelton J

Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Earl Patrick Joubert The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Winner of a 17-runner juvenile hurdle (strong form) at Auteuil (2 1/4m, soft) on debut in October and maintained his unbeaten record faced with a golden opportunity at Wetherby (2m, heavy) 4 months on. Remains open to plenty of improvement. TFRHHHHI BHA-

7 MAMBONUMBERFIVE (FR) (40) 35-2P1

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

11-2

Ben Jones J

O Mal Bloodstock Ltd Ben Pauling, Naunton T

B Haras de Mandore Fitzdares S

TIMEFORM VIEWFairlyusefulformoverhurdlesinFrancepriortochanginghandsfor€450,000lastsummer TookeentodohimselfjusticeondebutfornewyardinCheltenham Grade 2 but much more like it when running out a decisive winner in 5-runner Adonis at Kempton (2m) last time Scope to do better again. TFRHHHII BHA128

8 NATURALLY NIMBLE (GER) (98) 014 11-2

Br B g Too Darn Hot - Namera (GER) J. J. Slevin J

O Sean & Bernardine Mulryan Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland T

B Gestut Brummerhof Mr O’Brien S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful winner at 10f on Flat who proved a different proposition to on his hurdling debut when readily winning Grade 3 event at Fairyhouse (16.5f) in December Showed that to be no fluke when fourth in Grade 2 at Leopardstown next time and remains with potential. TFRHHHII BHA138

9 PUTURHANDSTOGETHER (IRE) (23) 3121

Br B g Caravaggio (USA) - Round of Applause

O Mr John P. McManus

11-2

Mark Walsh J

Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland T

B Mrs Noreen McManus Mr O’Brien S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat winner proving very progressive over hurdles, turning a competitive, big-field handicap into a rout in 22-runner Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival, quickening clear Open to further improvement and solid claims up in grade TFRHHHHH BHA143

10 TERRORISE (GB) (173)

Br B g Territories (IRE) - Timely Words

O Mr A Barnes & Partner

B The Pocock Family

11-2

Craig Nichol J

Brian Ellison, Malton T

Brian Ellison Racing Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair handicapper on Flat (stays 1 3/4m), successful once in 2024. Faces a very stiff task on hurdle debut. TFRHIIII BHA-

11 WENDROCK (FR) (23) 3106

Br Gr g Manduro (GER) - Linareva (IRE)

O Gigginstown House Stud

B Mr Ghislain Deslandes

11-2

Sam Ewing J

Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Confirmed hurdling debut promise when landing 2m Leopardstown maiden over Christmas. Seemingly not good enough in Spring Juvenile but improved from a stiff-looking mark when sixth of 22 to Puturhandstogether in Fred Winter at Cheltenham. Has each-way claims. TFRHHHII BHA137

12 WILLY DE HOUELLE (FR) (20) 12-2640

11-2

Br Gr g Beaumec de Houelle (FR) - Belle Attitude (FR) Rachael Blackmore J

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

B Mr Franck Leblanc

TIMEFORMVIEW A very useful winning hurdler in France who got back on track when fourth of 8 in Spring Juvenile at Leopardstown in February However, below-par in the Triumph Hurdle on most recent outing. TFRHHHII BHA138

13 MURCIA (FR) (23) 331020 D

Br B f Doctor Dino (FR) - Belle Et Chic (FR)

10-9

P. Townend J

O Mr K. Alexander W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

B SARL de Chambure Haras D’Etreham et al

TIMEFORM VIEW Signed off in France with a win in a Listed event and much better effort on second start for current yard when just failing at Naas (15.7f) in February Ran well when eighth to Puturhandstogether in Fred Winter and in with a fighting chance of reversing the form on more favourable terms. TFRHHHII BHA136

DECLARED RUNNERS 13 2024: SIR GINO (FR) 4 11 2 Nico de Boinville 11-10 (Nicky Henderson) 5 ran Hood worn first time by No 4. Tongue Strap worn by No 13. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No 12. Stewards Note: GIBBS ISLAND: Following its run on 14/3/2025 it was reported that the horse ran too freely

Probable S.P’s: 7-2 Puturhandstogether (IRE), 5-1 Live Conti (FR), 6-1 Naturally Nimble (GER), 10-1 Murcia (FR), 11-1 Mambonumberfive (FR), 12-1 Filibustering (GB), Wendrock (FR), 20-1 Gibbs Island (GB), 22-1 Willy de Houelle (FR), 33-1 Aviemore (GB), Give It To Me Oj (GB), 66-1 Coconut Grove (FR), 100-1 Terrorise (GB)

It was very hard not to be impressed with the way PUTURHANDSTOGETHER routed a competitive field in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival so he’s fancied to take the step up in grade in his stride. Filibustering was notably quick over his hurdles when making a successful debut in this sphere in impression fashion at Kelso and is open to any amount of improvement, as is the unbeaten Live Conti.

TODAY'S RACE SPONSOR

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

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

RACECOURSE TOURS

Explore Aintree’s history with Jane Clarke for £25. Discover 2,000+ artefacts, iconic locations, and unique behind-the-scenes stories!

TOURS AVAILABLE BETWEEN Saturday 28th – Sunday 29th June and Saturday 26th – Sunday 27th July

SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE

WE RACE TOGETHER

We’re committed to creating safe, respectful, and enjoyable experiences for all.

From the moment you arrive to the ﬁnal cheer, we’re here to make your time with us unforgettable for all the right reasons. SCAN ME to ﬁnd out more

FACTS & STATS S

THE BROOKLANDS GOLDEN MILLER

AINTREE BOWL CHASE

RACE DESCRIPTION

First ran in 1984, the Bowl - or Martell Cup as it was previously known - is the feature Grade 1 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 ran 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 and positive tactics are often rewarded.

2024 WINNER

GERRI COLOMBE

2023 winner Shiskin was of obvious interest but it was Gerri Colombe who the market found before the off His second in the Gold Cup was by far the strongest form on offer and backed up his Grade 1 Novice win around here from the year prior. Jack Kennedy was keen to get a prominent position but was never given an easy time out front. Turning for home it looked as though the entire field were still in contention, but it was Bravemansgame and Ahoy Senor still going great guns at the head of affairs. However, Gerri Colombe proved his stamina and determination to pick up the pieces late home, fending off the strong challenge of Ahoy Senor and Corbetts Cross who both ran well in defeat

ROLL OF HONOUR

KEY TRENDS

26 of the last 40 winners had run in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

Paul Nicholls

3 winners

Today Paul Saddles

Stage Star

11 of the past 14 winners were 7-2 or shorter

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £250,000 £140,325 TO THE WINNER

The past 13 winners were all beaten last time out

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

JOCKEY

Harry Cobden

2 winners

Today Harry Rides

Stage Star

THE BROOKLANDS GOLDEN MILLER CHRONOGRAPH 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, 6th £2750, 7th £1400, 8th £675. (Penalty Value £140325)

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton

(23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs GREY DAWNING TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (8 wins from 12 runners, 67%) runs EMBASSY GARDENS & GAELIC WARRIOR

FANCY THAT: P Nicholls won this race in 2015, 2021 & 2022. The stable runs STAGE STAR today

1 AHOY SENOR (IRE) (20) 62-3PPF CD 10 11-10

Br B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Dara Supreme (IRE) Patrick Wadge J

O Wymer & Russell Lucinda Russell, Kinross T

B Mr D.P. Constable Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW C&D winner who isn’t a fluent jumper but is top-class on his day, finishing runner-up in this race for second consecutive season 12 months ago Resumed with a solid third in Old Roan in October and, despite failing to complete all 3 starts since a return to this venue makes him of real interest. TFRHHHII BHA165

2

DJELO (FR) (21) 0-21210 C 7 11-10

Br B g Montmartre (FR) - Djeville (FR)

Charlie Deutsch J

O Mr P. Davies Venetia Williams, Hereford T

B Mr Gildas Blain Faucets Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEWCoursewinnerwhoverymuchcaughttheeyewhensecondonreturnatExeterinNovemberandbuiltonthattoscoretwiceinGrade2company,latterly the Denman Chase at Newbury (23.4f) in February Didn’t fire in last month’s Ryanair at Cheltenham though, and others make more appeal now. TFRHHIII BHA166

3 EMBASSY GARDENS (GB)

(61) 112-P16 D 9 11-10

Br B g Shantou (USA) - Adriana des Mottes (FR) P. Townend J

O Sean & Bernardine Mulryan W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

B R. T. Crellin

TIMEFORM VIEW Very smart chaser who made a winning reappearance in Grade 3 company at Tramore (22.7f) on New Year’s Day and gave a good account of himself when sixth behind Galopin des Champs in Irish Gold Cup the following month. Each-way possibilities. TFRHHHII BHA160

4 GAELIC WARRIOR (GER)

(60) 1U1-223 BF 7 11-10

Br B g Maxios - Game of Legs (FR) Mr P. W. Mullins J

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

B The Niarchos Family

TIMEFORM VIEW Top-classchaserwhoranoutanimpressivewinneroflastseason’sArkleatCheltenhamandresumedwithacreditablesecondatLeopardstownoverChristmas. Never threatened when third in Dublin Chase in February but comes here fresh having missed the Festival and he’s unexposed at this sort of trip TFRHHHII BHA164

5

GREY DAWNING (IRE) (33) 113-2P1 8 11-10

Br Gr g Flemensfirth (USA) - Lady Wagtail (IRE) Harry Skelton J

O Mr Robert Kirkland

Dan Skelton, Alcester T

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

TIMEFORM VIEW Tookreallywelltofenceslastterm,winningtheTurnersatCheltenham.ExcellentsecondinBetfairChaseonreturnandquicktoprovehisKingGeorge running all wrong when a most impressive winner from the front in Premier Chase at Kelso (23.4f) last month. Big player back at Grade 1 level. TFRHHHHH BHA162

6 SPILLANE’S TOWER (IRE) (98) 121-125 D BF 7 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

TIMEFORM VIEWWonapairofGrade1novicechaseslastspringandpostedacareer-bestafter7monthsoffwhen1/2-lengthsecondbehindFactToFileintheJohnDurkan at Punchestown in November Undone by mistakes when fifth in King George but freshened up ahead of this and he remains low mileage at 3m+ TFRHHHHI BHA165

7 STAGE STAR (IRE) (68) 1P5-402 9 11-10

Br B g Fame And Glory - Sparky May Harry Cobden J

O Owners Group 044 Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T

B Ruxley Holdings Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Top class chaser (Grade 1 winner as a novice) who posted his best effort since landing last season’s Paddy Power Gold Cup when runner-up in Gr 2 Cotswold Chase (25.2f) in January Marked longer trip posed no problem then and respected for a yard boasting an excellent record in this race TFRHHHII BHA163

8 THE REAL WHACKER (IRE) (20) P5-U145 D 9 11-10

Br B g Mahler - Credit Box (IRE)

O Neville, Mann, Duffus, Dennis-Price

Brian Hughes J

Patrick Neville, Leyburn T

B Mrs B. Keane Sinclair’s of Rhynie Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Grade 1 winner as a novice at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival and back to that sort of level when making all in the Charlie Hall at Wetherby (3m, good) in November Respectable fourth in King George next time but found the going too tough when fifth in last month’s Gold Cup Others preferred. TFRHHIII BHA157

DECLARED RUNNERS 8 2024: GERRI COLOMBE (FR) 8 11 10 Jack Kennedy 9-4 (Gordon Elliott) 7 ran Tongue Strap worn by No 8. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No 4. Stewards Note:

DJELO: Following its run on 13/3/2025 it was reported that the horse was outpaced.

Probable S.P’s: 5-2 Grey Dawning (IRE), 7-2 Spillane’s Tower (IRE), 6-1 Gaelic Warrior (GER), 13-2 Ahoy Senor (IRE), 7-1 Stage Star (IRE), 12-1 Embassy Gardens (GB), 22-1 The Real Whacker (IRE), 28-1 Djelo (FR)

GREY DAWNING was straight back to his zestful best on his first start since the King George when registering a smooth success in Listed company at Kelso in March and, with this on his radar for some time, Dan Skelton’s charge is fancied to make a bold bid to land a second Grade 1. Irish raider Spillane’s Tower has been given a break since Christmas and he heads up the dangers. Ahoy Senor, twice a runner-up in this race, and Stage Star can also feature. TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.GREY DAWNING (IRE) 2.SPILLANE’S TOWER (IRE) 3.AHOY SENOR (IRE)

TODAY'S RACE SPONSOR

find out more about today's race sponsor at

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

You must be 18 or over to place a bet

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

The Dare-Devil Pilot-Cricketer, The Gift Horse And The Trainer

Who Never Gave Up by

Jane Clarke

2025 marks the centenary of Double Chance’s victory in the Grand National. Bred for the Flat in 1916 at the de Rothschilds’ Southcote Stud near Leighton Buzzard, the chestnut’s ancestry was questionable, being out of Kelibia, though his sire was given as "either Roi Herode or Day Comet".

Like so many previous winners, his was an unlikely story on paper Having shown little promise on the racecourse he was consequently gifted by his owner Captain Anthony de Rothschild to an ex-trooper, Frederick Archer, with whom he had served during World War I, and who was just starting out on a training career at Malton. Archer was the nephew of legendary Flat jockey Fred and grandson of William who had won the 1858 Grand National on Little Charley. He hunted Double Chance and, recognising he had a flair for jumping, won two minor races with him before the horse broke down twice with leg problems. Archer then moved from Yorkshire to Newmarket together with Double Chance who, after a successful firing operation, won five more ‘chases.

Shortly before the 1925 Grand National, Archer sold a half-share in Double Chance to Liverpool cotton broker David Goold in whose colours he made his first and only appearance at Aintree, winning by four lengths at 100/9, beating no fewer than four past or future National winners and also that year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup victor This was the first time

the single-strand starting tape was used in the big race

The man entrusted to partnering Double Chance that day was the amazing Major John ("Jack")

Philip Wilson DSC The 35-year-old Yorkshireman had played First Class cricket for his home county as well as having served with bravery and dedication in the Royal Naval Air Service throughout the First World War He flew in airships, bombed German submarines and in June 1915 was responsible for destroying a Zeppelin at night on its base in Belgium when he negotiated fog and, by judicious use of his pocket lamp, fooled the anti-aircraft batteries into thinking he was friendly

He received the Distinguished Service Cross by order of the King and retired with the rank of Major in 1919, after which - despite a life expectancy given as only six months - became a well-known amateur jockey, riding over 100 winners and competing three times in the Grand National.

Fred Archer had particular affection for Double Chance and left clear instructions in his Will for the horse to be cared for by fellow trainer Jack Colling, who duly kept him for the rest of his days and reported him to have a mind of his own and to particularly dislike being clipped. He made a public appearance at Olympia’s 1925 London Food Exhibition and, until a few years ago, the Malton Brewery produced ‘Double Chance’ - their premium best-selling ale - named after the Grand National winner who was once humbly stabled behind the village’s Crown Hotel, locally known as Suddaby’s.

To celebrate the centenary, Jack Wilson’s grandsons and some of his grandchildren are attending the Aintree Festival this year

Double Chance’s saddle can be seen on display in McCoy’s (The Old Weighing Room) at Aintree

Major Jack Wilson

FACTS & STATS S

THE WILLIAM HILL AINTREE HURDLE

RACE DESCRIPTION

Switched from Grand National Day to the first day of the meeting in 2013, the Aintree Hurdle is usually a clash between two milers and two and a half milers This race is unique as it is the only open Grade 1 hurdle over 2m4f at any of the three Spring Festivals The intermediate trip gives an opportunity for those classy hurdlers to shine over their optimum trip, with the likes of Oscar Whisky being a prime example of a horse that has excelled over this trip Champion Hurdle winners boast a fine record so keep an eye of 2023 Champion Hurdle winner Constitution Hill.

Last year's Aintree Hurdle proved one of the races of the Festival Impaire Et Passe travelled beautifully all the way round and looked set to forge clear touching down over the line. Paul Townend reported that he pulled up a little in front, which gave a huge chance to those in behind Two-time Coral Cup hero Langer Dan was the first to make his challenge, but the move was soon covered by this year's Stayers' Hurdle winner Bob Olinger With a three-way photo as they hit the Winning Post, it was Simon Munir & Isaac Souede's two tone green who was awarded glory, with just a neck splitting the three.

ROLL OF HONOUR

GRADE 1 RUN OVER TWO MILES, FOUR FURLONGS 11 HURDLES TO BE JUMPED

The past 12 winners had already won a Grade 1 26 of the previous 30 winners were aged 6-8

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Nicky Henderson

4 winners

Today Nicky Saddles Constitution Hill

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £250,000 £140,325 TO THE WINNER

Every British-trained winner had run at the Cheltenham Festival

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

Townend

Paul Rides

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 (23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs TAKE NO CHANCES TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): W P Mullins (8 wins from 12 runners, 67%) runs LOSSIEMOUTH FANCY THAT: N Henderson won this race in 2017 2018, 2022 & 2023. The stable runs CONSTITUTION HILL today. W P Mullins won this race in 2016 & 2024. The stable runs LOSSIEMOUTH today.

FOURTH RACE

1 CONSTITUTION HILL (GB) (23) 11/1-11F CD BF 8 11-10

Br B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Queen of The Stage (IRE) Nico de Boinville J

O Mr Michael Buckley Nicky Henderson, Lambourn T

B Mrs S. A. Noott Unibet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Exceptional hurdler who missed 2024 Cheltenham Festival after a couple of setbacks but confirmed he’s still very much the one to beat in this division with wins in the Christmas Hurdle and International. Lost unbeaten record when falling in the Champion Hurdle but can make amends. Won this in 2023. TFRHHHHH BHA175

2

SALVER (FR) (39) 13-4F23 BF 5 11-10

Br B g Motivator - Salve Evita J

O Mr Keith Graves Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham T

B Genets Srl Heart Of The South Bloodstock S

NON-RUNNER

TIMEFORM VIEW Won 4 times last season and has continued on the up this winter, running well when falling last in Grade 2 Relkeel at Cheltenham before coming in an excellent 1/2-length second of 5 to Nemean Lion in conditions event at Windsor Not in same form at Fontwell and he’s right against it at this level. TFRHHIII BHA148

3 TELLHERTHENAME (IRE) (33) 1P10-4P 6 11-10

Br B g Malinas (GER) - Whos To Know (IRE) Kielan Woods J

O The Megsons Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham T

B Redmond Barry Wasdell Group S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful novice hurdler for Ben Pauling last season. Pitched in at the deep end in Fighting Fifth at Newcastle on reappearance for new yard and ran well in fourth. Shaped as though amiss in the Morebattle last month and this a very tough race to bounce back in trying a new trip TFRHIIII BHA137

4 BREAK MY SOUL (IRE) (47) 1-12422 6 11-3

Br B m Doyen (IRE) - Ayleoola (IRE) Keith Donoghue J

O Matthew Rogers Ian Patrick Donoghue, Ireland T

B Pat Coffey

TIMEFORM VIEW Second of 6 (first time tongue tie) in Grade 3 Red Mills Hurdle starting out for new yard in February Isn’t really crying out for this trip and this looks a tall order, regardless. TFRHHIII BHA137

5 LOSSIEMOUTH

(FR) (23) 1-112F1 D 6 11-3

Br Gr m Great Pretender (IRE) - Mariner’s Light (FR) P. Townend J

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

B Sarl Elevage Des Vallons & M. Ian Kellit

TIMEFORM VIEW Underlined what a top-class mare she is when bagging Hatton’s Grace on Fairyhouse return but Constitution Hill was too strong for her in the Christmas Hurdle Fell heavily 4 out in Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown but right back on her game when thrashing the opposition in the Mares’ Hurdle TFRHHHHI BHA160

6 TAKE NO CHANCES (IRE) (23) 315313 D 7 11-3

Br B m Milan - Coscorrig (IRE)

Harry Skelton J

O Mr Garry Wilson Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B D. Corry The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful mare who bagged a 2m Wetherby Listed race in November Found the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth at Newcastle too hot but quickly back to best when resuming winning ways in Mares’ Grade 2 at Ascot in January Fared as well as could be expected when third in Mares’ Hurdle TFRHHIII BHA146

7 WODHOOH (FR) (20) 1111-11 D 5 11-3

Br B m Le Havre (IRE) - Dhan (IRE)

Danny Gilligan J

O The Sundowners Partnership Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

B Al Shaqab Racing Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Unbeatenin7runsoverhurdlessincejoiningthisyard,makinglightofan11-monthabsenceasshecameclearreadilyinaCheltenhamhandicapinDecember

Found another jolt of improvement when impressive scorer of the Martin Pipe 3 weeks ago and her limit may not yet have been reached. TFRHHHII BHA152

DECLARED RUNNERS 7 2024: IMPAIRE ET PASSE (FR) 6 11 10 P Townend EVENS (W P Mullins) 8 ran Tongue Strap worn by No 4. Stewards Note:

TELLHERTHENAME: Following its run on 1/3/2025 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

Probable S.P’s: 8-11 Constitution Hill (GB), 9-4 Lossiemouth (FR), 9-1 Wodhooh (FR), 50-1, Take No Chances (IRE), 150-1 Break My Soul (IRE), 300-1 Tellherthename (IRE)

CONSTITUTION HILL lost his unbeaten record in dramatic fashion in the Champion Hurdle but reportedly none the worse for that fall. He can supplement his 2023 success in this race Lossiemouth has 2 1/2 lengths to find with the selection on their running in the Christmas Hurdle but a facile win in the Mares’ Hurdle confirms she’s arriving in top form. Wodhooh is absolutely thriving, too, and looks the other credible threat.

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.

HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD

THE HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD PRIZE FUND SCHEMES PROVIDE

THE ESTIMATED INCLUSION OF £954,825 IN RATECARD AND

MONEY AT THIS RACECOURSE FROM 29TH MARCH TO 22ND JUNE

No hurdles for Tony in his bid to save men’s lives on Ladies Day

This Ladies Day at the Randox Grand National festival, Tony Collier will be proudly representing Prostate Cancer UK and helping deliver a lifesaving message to fans visiting Aintree this year.

“Hearing about my prostate cancer diagnosis almost eight years ago was a shattering experience. Prostate cancer was scarcely on my radar. It changed my life. You immediately ask so many questions, like will I be able to walk my daughter down the aisle on her wedding day, or see my grandson grow up? The following days and months were horrendous, with so many dark moments. I was terrified of what the future held.”

“Working with Prostate Cancer UK, and with the support of friends, loved ones and the local community, including my football club Altrincham FC, has been so important as I started to adapt to my life-changing news To hear the Ladies Day title race, the Topham Chase, has been dedicated to the charity to raise awareness of prostate cancer is fantastic And it’s an honour to represent Prostate Cancer UK together with my wife Tracey, who has been an immense support to me since my diagnosis. I’ve enjoyed so many amazing moments in the past eight years, and I carry with me a renewed purpose to make a difference for men, like me, and their families. Hopefully, Ladies Day at the Randox Grand National is another of those special days.”

Prostate Cancer UK’s presence at one of the biggest sporting occasions of the year will raise vital awareness about the most common cancer in England 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer, and the risk doubles for Black men. The good news is the earlier you find prostate cancer, the easier it is to treat. With thousands of racegoers attending Aintree Racecourse and millions watching worldwide, this collaboration provides a powerful platform to support Prostate Cancer UK’s mission to give every man the power to navigate prostate cancer, and give them the information to make the next step.

No jumps. No hurdles. Three questions and 30 seconds is all it takes to find out your risk of prostate cancer.

FACTS & STATS S

RACE DESCRIPTION

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

Derek O'Connor produced another stellar ride to take gold in last year's Foxhunters in the green and gold for J P McManus Its On The Line was just denied up the hill at Cheltenham the month prior but he went one place better here, as the drop in trip worked in his favour Making smooth headway through the field and jumping with plenty of zest around the Grand National fences, he won a shade cosily in the end by four and a half lengths. The Dan Skelton-trained Benny King followed home for second, fending off Annamix who was booked for third.

ROLL OF HONOUR

11 of the past 19 winners had previous experience over the Grand National fences

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

John O'Shea

1 winner

Today John Saddles Gracchus De Balme & Willewonga

RUN OVER TWO MILES, FIVE FURLONGS & 19 YARDS GRAND

£24,155 TO THE WINNER CLASS 2

22 of the past 31 winners started favourite or second favourite

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £50,000

16 of the past 19 winners were aged 10 or older

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

JOCKEY

Derek O'Connor

1 winner

Today Derek Rides

Presentandcounting

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)

1 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10 Bold Form Figures Indicate Point-to-Point Form

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton

(23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs BENNYS KING FRERE D’ARMES & JET PLANE

TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): F O’Brien (10 wins from 36 runners, 28%) runs AUTONOMOUS CLOUD

1 A JET OF OUR OWN (IRE) (27) 235PP2 8 12-0

Br B g Jet Away - Satalda’s Lady (IRE) Mr Frederick Philipson-Stow J

O Mr Edward Philipson-Stow Matt Sheppard, Ledbury T

H Ledbury

TIMEFORM VIEW Prolific winner in points who started Rules career in same vein when winning hunter at Cheltenham (16.3f) last May. Second of 6 to Joker De Mai in hunter chase at Leicester (15.9f good to soft) 27 days ago and a point winner since so one to consider TFRHHIII BHA116

2 ANNAMIX (FR) (26) P13-660 12 12-0

Br Gr g Martaline - Tashtiyana (IRE) Mr P. W. Mullins J

O Status Quo Syndicate W. P. Mullins, Ireland T

H Carlow Farmers

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser 4/1, back with former yard when below form seventh of 13 in hunter chase at Gowran (25f, heavy) 26 days ago Third last year and cheekpieces now go on. TFRHHHII BHA135

3 AUTONOMOUS CLOUD (IRE)

(37) 0-3P432 9 12-0

Br B g Flemensfirth (USA) - August Hill (IRE) Mr P. A. King J

O Mr Terry Warner & The McNeill Family Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

H Cotswold Ultima Business Solutions S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser Respectable 8 1/2 lengths second of 7 to Bennys King in hunter chase at Leicester (22.7f heavy) 37 days ago Shortlisted. TFRHHHII BHA121

4 BARDENSTOWN LAD

(GB) (20) 325110 10 12-0

Br Ch g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Pougatcheva (FR) Mr Eoin Mahon J

O The Stay Between The Ditches Syndicate David Loughnane, Tern Hill T

H North Shropshire

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdler/chaser but he came in a below form eleventh of 24 in Foxhunters at Cheltenham (66/1) 20 days ago Blinkers replace cheekpieces with more needed. TFRHHIII BHA130

5 BENNYS KING (IRE) (37) 2-UPP21 D 14 12-0

Br B g Beneficial - Hellofafaithful (IRE)

Mr Sean O’Connor J

O Mezzone Family & Dan Skelton Dan Skelton, Alcester T

H Croome & West Warwickshire The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Veteran resumed winning ways in 7-runner hunter chase at Leicester (22.7f heavy) 37 days ago by 8 1/2 lengths from Autonomous Cloud. Runner-up in this for the last 2 years. TFRHHHII BHA127

6 BOTHWELL BRIDGE (IRE) (25) 1-13234 10 12-0

Br B g Stowaway - Raise The Issue (IRE) Miss Ellie Callwood J

O The Fernie Dingley Syndicate Kelly Morgan, Waltham on the Wolds T

H Fernie

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair chaser Creditable third of 7 to Bennys King in hunter chase at Leicester (22.7f, heavy) 37 days ago Twelve runs since last win in 2021. TFRHHHII BHA112

7 CAPTAIN TOMMY (IRE) (2) 0-PP112 D 11 12-0

Br B g Court Cave (IRE) - Freemantle Doctor (IRE) J

O PSC Racing Club Fred Timmis, Minsterley T

H South Shropshire

NON-RUNNER

TIMEFORM VIEW Bagged hunter chases at Catterick (25f) and Ludlow (2 1/2m) last month but a below-par second at Kempton (2m4f) two days ago Sort to bounce back though.

TFRHHHII BHA122

8 DORKING COCK (IRE) (26) 4-3P323 D 11 12-0

Br B g Winged Love (IRE) - Kiss Jolie (FR) Mr Stephen Connor J

O Dorking Cock Syndicate S. R. B. Crawford, Northern Ireland T

H East Antrim

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser who came in a respectable third of 13 in hunter chase at Gowran (25f heavy) 26 days ago Cheekpieces back on and no forlorn hope

TFRHHHII BHA125

9 EVA’S OSKAR (IRE) (29) 4U/4-612 D 11 12-0

Br Gr g Shirocco (GER) - Sardagna (FR)

O S&R Racing Ltd

Mr Edward Vaughan J

Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge T

H Llangeinor Pentyrch DragonBet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Likeable chaser who landed 3m hunter chase at Bangor in February Backed it up with a good second in similar company at Catterick since so he’s in the mix. TFRHHHII BHA125

10 FAMOUS CLERMONT (FR)

(19) 12-0121 CD 10 12-0

Br B g Maresca Sorrento (FR) - Progest des Mottes (FR) Mr James King J

O Biddiscombe, Rogers & Barber C. R. Barber, Beaminster T

H Ledbury

TIMEFORM VIEW Took this in 2023 and last seen under Rules when bagging 5-runner hunter chase at Stratford (226f, good to soft) 10 months ago Scored in a point 19 days ago so he must enter calculations. TFRHHHHI BHA136

11 FIX AT ALL (FR) (25) 2-100P4 D 9 12-0

Br B g No Risk At All (FR) - Lady Fix (FR)

Mr Troy Walsh J

O Mrs L. Maclennan Callum Bickers-Price, Hereford T

H Herefordshire and Clifton

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser at his best but on his first run since leaving Neil Mulholland he came in a below-form fourth of 6 in hunter chase at Carlisle (20.9f good) 25 days ago More is required. TFRHHIII BHA121

12 FRERE D’ARMES

(FR) (14) 01P123 D BF 8 12-0

Br B g Bathyrhon (GER) - Ville Sainte (FR)

Miss Heidi Palin J

O Belbroughton Racing Club Dan Skelton, Alcester T

H Croome & West Warwickshire The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Back to winning ways in hunter chase at Ludlow in February Let down by jumping when an odds-on third of 6 to Captain Tommy in hunter at Ludlow (20f good) 14 days ago Still needs considering.

TFRHHHII BHA130

13 GO GO GERONIMO (GB) (20) 321222 BF 10 12-0

Br B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Farewellatmidnight

Mr Tom Chatfeild-Roberts J

O Mr John Chatfeild-Roberts Kelly Morgan, Waltham on the Wolds T

H Belvoir

TIMEFORM VIEW Prolific points winner who was ridden too aggressively in a first-time visor when second of 4 in hunter chase (8/13) at Fakenham (24.2f, good to soft) 20 days ago Not ruled out.

TFRHHHII BHA109

14 GRACCHUS DE BALME (FR) (37) 3-0612P BF 9 12-0

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

Mr Huw Edwards J

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

H North Staffordshire

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful ex-Irish hurdler/chaser for Joseph O’Brien. Good second in hunter chase at Haydock (22.2f) in February but pulled up there since Needs to get back on track.

15 JET PLANE

(IRE)

TFRHHHII BHA132

(47) P-3U013 D BF 9 12-0

Br B g Jet Away - Court Gamble (IRE)

O Norman Lake & Susan Carsberg

Mr Jack Andrews J

Dan Skelton, Alcester T

H Croome & West Warwickshire The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Scored in hunter chase at Wetherby in February and followed it with a solid 6 lengths third of 6 to My Drogo in hunter chase at Haydock (22.2f good to soft) 47 days ago In the picture again. TFRHHHII BHA132

16 JOKER DE

MAI

(FR) (27) 2222-31 6 12-0

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

O Mr David Maxwell

H Old Berkshire

Mr David Maxwell J

Harry Derham, Newbury T

The Fitzdares Club S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser in France and has held his form well for his new yard, easily landing the odds in 2m hunter chase at Leicester last month. Very much one to consider TFRHHHHI BHA129

LIFETIME AMBITION (IRE)

Br Br g Kapgarde (FR) - Jeanquiri (FR)

(25) 1-22211 D 10 12-0

Mr Robert James J

O Linda Mulcahy & Roger O’Byrne P. M. J. Doyle, Ireland T

H Golden Vale

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart Irish hurdler/chaser who posted a very good second of 14 in hunter chase at Punchestown when last seen under Rules 11 months ago A dual winning pointer recently so he’s a likely player.

18 MASTER

TEMPLAR

TFRHHHHI BHA139

(IRE) (31) 1-24115 D 10 12-0

Br Br g Robin des Champs (FR) - Which Thistle (IRE) Miss Gina Andrews J

O Mrs R. C. Hayward

H Warwickshire

Mrs G. Andrews, Marton T

TIMEFORM VIEW Excellent point record and not seen to best effect when fifth of 7 in hunter chase at Southwell (24.3f good) 31 days ago, finishing well. Not discounted with blinkers added.

TFRHHHII BHA113

19 MILAN FORTH (IRE) (17) 112131 6 12-0

Br B g Milan - Shuil Forth (IRE)

Mr Kevin Healy J

O Mr Patrick J. Whyte Adrian Murray Ireland T

H Westmeath

TIMEFORM VIEW Went 2-2 under Rules on his yard debut in 8-runner hunter chase at Down Royal (19.6f good) 17 days ago Can progress further so this Irish challenger is well in the mix.

TFRHHHHI BHA126

20 MY DROGO (GB) (47) 1//0P-311 C D 10 12-0

Br B g Milan - My Petra

Mr William Biddick J

O Mr & Mrs R. Kelvin-Hughes Edward William Walker, Ottery St Mary T

H Beaufort H & C Group Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW One-time smart winning chaser for Dan Skelton. Easily bagged a point before an impressive scorer in 2m6f Haydock hunter chase in February Holds good claims. TFRHHHHI BHA142

21 ONTHEROPES (IRE) (20) 00F120 D 11 12-0

Br Br g Presenting - Dushion (IRE)

Mr Charlie Mullins J

O Mrs H. Mullins Thomas Mullins, Ireland T

H Carlow Farmers

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart handicap chaser at best for Willie Mullins and having won a point, he stuck to his task pretty well when runner-up on hunter debut at Naas and when eighth in Foxhunters at Cheltenham since One for the shortlist. TFRHHHII BHA132

22 PERCUSSION (GB) (31) 420533 BF 10 12-0

Br B g Malinas (GER) - Tambourine Ridge (IRE) Mr Daniel Cherriman J

O Hanbury and Cherriman L J Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds T

H South Shropshire

TIMEFORM VIEW It’s now 18 runs his since last win in 2022 but he recorded a respectable third of 7 in hunter chase (2/1) at Southwell (24.3f, good) 31 days ago This isn’t easy but he has been placed 4 times over these fences. TFRHHIII BHA121

23 PRESENTANDCOUNTING (IRE) (29) 44P133 D BF 11 12-0

Br B g Presenting - Count On Me (IRE) Mr Derek O’Connor J

O Mr Tim Johnson Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

H Cheshire Prisma Colour Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who arrives in good nick, third of 5 to Captain Tommy in hunter chase at Catterick (25.2f good to firm, 8/11) 29 days ago Can’t be totally dismissed. TFRHHHII BHA122

PYLEIGH COURT (GB)

(37) 121/3-31 10 12-0

Br B g Passing Glance - Pyleigh Lady Miss Ella Herbison J

O Mr R. C. Pudd R. C. Pudd, Taunton T

H Taunton Vale Harriers

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner who landed 4-runner hunter chase at Leicester (20.1f, heavy) 37 days ago This is much more demanding however. TFRHHIII BHA117

25 RAMILLIES (IRE) (26)

31242P

Br Gr g Shantou (USA) - Mrs Wallensky (IRE)

10 12-0

Mr Barry O’Neill J

O Ramillies & Christie Family Syndicate D. M. Christie, Ireland T

H Fermanagh

TIMEFORM VIEW On a losing run and he was pulled up in hunter chase (16/1) at Gowran (25f, heavy) 26 days ago Hard to warm to TFRHHIII BHA129

26 SENIOR CITIZEN (GB) (53) 016/63-1 D 12 12-0

Br B g Tobougg (IRE) - Mothers Help

Mr Joshua Newman J

O Mr G. C. Myddelton Alan Hill, Aston Rowant T

H Kimblewick

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser who came in just a fair third of 5 in hunter chase at Ludlow (20f soft) 12 months ago on his final run for Alan King. Landed a point 53 days ago and has undergone breathing surgery since so can’t be ruled out. TFRHHHII BHA127

27 WILLEWONGA (GB) (31) 12U422 D 9 12-0

Br B g Multiplex - Might Do

Mr William Easterby J

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

H North Staffordshire

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly-raced sort who comes here on the back of a good second of 7 in hunter chase at Southwell (24.3f, good) 31 days ago Needs to take a step forward to figure here though. TFRHHHII BHA128

28 WILLITGOAHEAD (IRE) (20) 111213 7 12-0

Br B g Getaway (GER) - Vin Fizz (IRE)

O Bective Stud

Mr J. L. Scallan J

Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

H Island Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner and plenty to like about his switch to Rules, readily going in at Thurles in January for Sean Doyle before an excellent third of 24 in Foxhunters at Cheltenham for his new stable Looks to have more to offer Big shout. TFRHHHHH BHA135

29 YCCS PORTOCERVO (FR) (27) P1-110P D 10 12-0

Br Gr g Martaline - Griva (FR)

Mr John Dawson J

O Mrs M.C. Litton Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole Droitwich T

H Worcestershire Coulthursts Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who landed a pair of hunters last spring. Off 8 months before pulled up in 2m Leicester hunter chase last time though so he needs to get back on track. TFRHHHII BHA131

30 YIPPEE KI YAY (IRE) (14) 2-21065 7 12-0

Br B g Shirocco (GER) - Nighthawk’s Law

Mr Ivor Herbert J

O Mr and Mrs Ben Herbert and Family Matt Sheppard, Ledbury T

H Monmouthshire

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser who bagged 3m2f hunter at Kelso last May. Only fifth of 6 in handicap chase at Sedgefield (26.3f good to soft) 14 days ago Easy to look elsewhere. TFRHHIII BHA110

DECLARED RUNNERS 30 2024: ITS ON THE LINE (IRE) 7 12 0 Mr Derek O’Connor 3-1 (Emmet Mullins) 22 ran Blinkers worn first time by No 18. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 2. Blinkers worn by No 4. Tongue Strap worn by No 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 15, 18, 19, 22. Visor, Tongue Strap worn by No 9, 13. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1, 5, 6, 8, 12, 22, 25, 29, 30

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No 26. Stewards Note: AUTONOMOUS CLOUD: Following its run on 25/2/2025 it was reported that the horse lost a shoe GRACCHUS DE BALME: Following its run on 25/2/2025 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

YCCS PORTOCERVO: Following its run on 7/3/2025 it was reported that the horse was unsuited by the short trip

Probable S.P’s: 5-1 Willitgoahead (IRE), 15-2 Lifetime Ambition (IRE), 8-1 My Drogo (GB), 9-1 Famous Clermont (FR), 12-1 Joker de Mai (FR), 18-1 Milan Forth (IRE), 20-1 Bennys King (IRE), 25-1 Gracchus de Balme (FR), 28-1 Jet Plane (IRE), 33-1 Annamix (FR), Ontheropes (IRE), Presentandcounting (IRE), 40-1 Percussion (GB), 50-1 Autonomous Cloud (IRE), Eva’s Oskar (IRE), Frere d’Armes (FR), 66-1 Ramillies (IRE), Willewonga (GB), Yccs Portocervo (FR), 80-1 Senior Citizen (GB), 100-1 Bardenstown Lad (GB), Dorking Cock (IRE), Fix At All (FR), 150-1 A Jet of Our Own (IRE), Go Go Geronimo (GB), Master Templar (IRE), Pyleigh Court (GB), Yippee Ki Yay (IRE), 300-1 Bothwell Bridge (IRE)

This is wide open but WILLITGOAHEAD made a promising start for Gordon Elliott when third in the Foxhunters at Cheltenham and is fancied to build on it here and land this prestigious prize. Fellow Irish raider Lifetime Ambition rates a big threat though, while My Drogo, Famous Clermont, Milan Forth and Joker de Mai also command plenty of respect. Annamix, Ontheropes and Presentandcounting need factoring into this highly competitive hunter chase too.

FACTS & STATS S

THE CLOSE BROTHERS RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE

RACE DESCRIPTION

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.

2024 WINNER SANS BRUIT

2lb wrong at the weights but due to go up another 3lb, Bryony Frost made use of the bottom weight to land the Red Rum. Her plan was clear from flag-fall, and she quickly got Sans Bruit into a nice rhythm out front and he couldn't have produced a better round of jumping to win his first race. He went pillar to post in empathic style and didn't see another rival to bolt up by four lengths. Market favourite Saint Roi could only chase the shadow of the runaway winner, while the 2023 hero Dancing On My Own could only manage sixth in this renewal

RUN OVER TWO

KEY TRENDS

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

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

Henry De Bromhead

2 winners

Today Henry Saddles

The Folkes Tiara

6 of the past 8 winners returned at single-figure odds

TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £100,000 £56,270 TO THE WINNER

5 of the previous 6 winners failed to win earlier in the season

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

JOCKEY

Brian Hughes

2 winners

Today Brian Rides Galunggung

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 9lb 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 (23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs CALICO TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): O Murphy (8 wins from 22 runners, 36%) runs GUNSIGHT RIDGE

LONGEST TRAVELLERS: MY MATE MOZZIE trained by G Cromwell, THE FOLKES TIARA trained by H De Bromhead & HUNTERS YARN trained by W P Mullins - all Ireland.

1 TOMMY’S OSCAR (IRE) (33) 441-334 D 10 12-0

Br B g Oscar (IRE) - Glibin (IRE)

Danny McMenamin J

O Mr Ian Hamilton Ann Hamilton, Newcastle Upon Tyne T

B Mrs E. Kelly Hamilton S

TIMEFORM VIEW Very smart chaser who was successful from this mark at Ayr (16.5f) on final outing of last season. Respectable efforts in trio of starts this time around, off 11 weeks prior to finishing fourth of 9 in handicap chase at Doncaster (16.4f) 33 days ago Still, others appeal more. TFRHHHII BHA152

2 HUNTERS YARN (IRE)

(82) 2/F15-6P D BF 8 12-0

Br B g Fame And Glory - Full of Birds (FR) J. J. Slevin J

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

B Mrs C. J. Berry The Sporting Life S

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple bumper/dual hurdles winner who was successful on second of his 3 chase starts during 2023/24. Jumping didn’t come up to scratch in 2 starts earlier this season though, and that has to be a concern ahead of this assignment. Tongue strap back on. TFRHHHII BHA152

3 MY MATE MOZZIE

(IRE) (22) 126-324 D 9 11-13

Br B g Born To Sea (IRE) - Leo’s Spirit (IRE) Keith Donoghue J

O Alymer Stud Ltd Gavin Cromwell, Ireland T

B Christopher Maye

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on Flat/smart over hurdles and shaping up well in this sphere of late, runner-up at Leopardstown (17f) in February before a smooth travelling fourth in last month’s Grand Annual at the Festival. Has a prize like this within his grasp and shortlisted with cheekpieces back on. TFRHHHHI BHA151

4 GUNSIGHT RIDGE

(GB) (61) 231-FP1 CD 10 11-7

Br B g Midnight Legend - Grandma Griffiths Sean Bowen J

O Mrs Diana L. Whateley Olly Murphy, Wilmcote T

B M. and Mrs Watson Motaclan, Cedar Invest Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW 10-y-o who bounced back to form in refitted cheekpieces when landing 6-runner handicap chase at Sandown (15.5f) in February by 1/2 length from Dr T J Eckleburg. All of his career victories have come in small fields however, and this undoubtedly tougher TFRHHHII BHA145

5 GENERAL MEDRANO

(IRE) (22) 0-21420 D 8 11-5

Br B g Ocovango - Talween Ben Jones J

O Elite Racing 003 Emma Lavelle Marlborough T

B Ms Anne Wishart Elite Racing Club S

TIMEFORM VIEW Mightily impressive when opening his account for the season at Newbury (16.4f) and ran another cracker when runner-up at Doncaster in January Went well for a long way when eighth in last month’s Grand Annual and return to this sharper test at this trip looks firmly in his favour TFRHHHII BHA143

6 CALICO (GER)

(33) 4-P1343 D 9 11-2

Br B g Soldier Hollow - Casanga (IRE)

O Mr John J Reilly

Harry Skelton J

Dan Skelton, Alcester T

B Stiftung Gestut Fahrhof The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful handicap chaser who defied a 2lb lower mark at Cheltenham (15.9f) in the autumn and having shaped better than bare result on penultimate start, he ran creditably when third of 9 in handicap chase at Doncaster (16.3f) 33 days ago Good showing anticipated. TFRHHHHH BHA140

7 THE FOLKES TIARA (IRE) (98)

10P-012

9 11-0

Br B g Shirocco (GER) - The Folkes Choice Rachael Blackmore J

O DWPJ Investments Ltd Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T

B Fergal Duncan & Loman Duncan

TIMEFORM VIEW Irish raider who bounced back to best following 7 months off when scoring at Fairyhouse (17f) in November prior to chasing home a subsequent winner at Leopardstown (17f) over Christmas. Career-high mark to defy but he arrives fresh and respected for yard who have landed this twice since 2019. TFRHHHHI BHA138

DR T J ECKLEBURG (IRE) (40) 312321 D 7 10-6

Br B g Lawman (FR) - Imtidaad (USA) Adam Wedge J

O Mrs Janet Davies Evan Williams, Llancarfan T

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

TIMEFORM VIEW Better than ever this season, winning twice including narrowly at Chepstow in February all out to hold on. 5lb higher mark to contend with in this stronger race but each-way claims nevertheless. TFRHHHII BHA130

9 SANS BRUIT

(FR) (40) 33P5P4 CD 7 10-6

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

TIMEFORM VIEW Fine winner of this race 12 months ago (his jumping slick). Has struggled for any sort of consistency in 6 starts so far this season but steadily fallen back down to last winning mark and may well enjoy his own way up front again back here. TFRHHHHI BHA130

10 PRIMOZ (IRE)

(22) 14F310 D 7 10-6

Br B g Westerner - Be Mine Tonight (IRE)

Patrick Wadge J

O Aim Equestrian Ltd & Russell Lucinda Russell, Kinross T

B Liam & Michael Flavin Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Verymuchachaseronlooksandimpressivewhenscoringonreturn/debutoverfencesatWetherby(15f)inOctober Hasn’treallybuiltonthatsince but successful in a match at Kelso prior to not being seen to best effect when down the field in Grand Annual 3 weeks ago Not discounted. TFRHHHII BHA130

11 PETIT TONNERRE (FR)

(33) 02661B D BF 7 10-6

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

O Mr John P. McManus

Jonjo O’Neill Jr J

Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham T

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

TIMEFORM VIEW Ended a losing run stretching back 3 years when registering first chase victory at Doncaster (16.3f) in January well suited by the strong gallop Brought down through no fault of his own back there 33 days ago and no doubting he has the ability to play a part. TFRHHHII BHA130

12 GALUNGGUNG (FR) (59) 1-16321 D 9

Br Gr g Khalkevi (IRE) - Unibelle (FR)

O Nigel Dunnington & David Shaw

10-5

Brian Hughes J

Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

B E.A.R.L. Trinquet et al Fitzdares Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner and even better form over fences, doubling his tally in this sphere in 6-runner handicap chase at Carlisle (15.9f soft) 59 days ago, looking set to score more decisively than the bare margins imply This tougher but he remains relatively unexposed. TFRHHHII BHA129

13 INEDIT STAR (FR)

(69) 222-235 7 10-5

Br Gr g Lord du Sud (FR) - Tulipe Star (FR)

Tom Broughton (5) J

O Crossed Fingers Partnership Nick Kent, Brigg T

B Dominique Vigneron & Bruno Vigneron Lincolnshire Tyre Ltd. S

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual bumper/hurdles winner in France who ran well when finishing a close up last of 3 in a C&D handicap in December However, he reportedly bled when fifth of 7 in handicap chase at Sandown a month later and this is his toughest assignment yet over fences. TFRHHIII BHA129

14 RATH GAUL HILL (IRE) (34) 4P211-1 D

7 10-2

Br B g Doyen (IRE) - Toler Street (IRE) Sam Twiston-Davies J

O Mr Kevin Price Samuel Drinkwater, Strensham T

B Miss Maria Brew Solstice S

TIMEFORM VIEWMuch-improvedoverfencesthistimelastyear landinghandicapsatNewbury/Ayrandpickedupwhereheleftoffwhenbringingupthehat-trickonreturn at first-named venue 5 weeks ago Should be well suited by demands of this race (strong traveller) for all he’s operating from out of the weights. TFRHHHII BHA123

DECLARED RUNNERS 14 2024: SANS BRUIT (FR) 6 10 2 Bryony Frost 5-1 (Paul Nicholls) 15 ran Tongue Strap worn by No 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 3, 4, 6, 11. Stewards Note:

INEDIT STAR: Following its run on 24/1/2025 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled. Probable S.P’s: 11-2 Primoz (IRE), 6-1 My Mate Mozzie (IRE), 7-1 Sans Bruit (FR), 10-1 The Folkes Tiara (IRE), Petit Tonnerre (FR), 12-1 General Medrano (IRE), 14-1 Calico (GER), Rath Gaul Hill (IRE), 16-1 Hunters Yarn (IRE), 18-1 Tommy’s Oscar (IRE), Gunsight Ridge (GB), 22-1 Dr T J Eckleburg (IRE), 33-1 Galunggung (FR), 50-1 Inedit Star (FR)

A whole host arrive with claims and it could be worth chancing one at longer odds in the shape of CALICO A winner at Cheltenham back in the autumn, Dan Skelton’s 9-y-o has returned from a break in good order and appeals as being on a workable mark. My Mate Mozzie has been shaping up well himself and is feared along with last year’s winner Sans Bruit, who is on an attractive mark if bouncing back. The Folkes Tiara, Primoz and Petit Tonnerre complete a lengthy shortlist.

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

FACTS & STATS S

RACE DESCRIPTION

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

All the money came for the highly fancied Baby Kate before the off, trained by the master Willie Mullins Sent off at as short as 2-1, she proved a disappointment which left the floor wide-open for Kielan Woods on Diva Luna Made all when winning at Market Rasen on debut, she repeated the trick in deeper waters here Helped by a fine ride, her jockey lost his whip late on but he'd already put the race to bed as she kickedon by three and a half lengths. Jubilee Alpha, despite being short of room when it mattered most, battled hard for second and fended off La Maruise for the minor honours

ROLL OF HONOUR

2015-2024

12 of the last 14 winners were aged five or six 9 of the last 13 winners were trained in the UK

WINNING CONNECTIONS

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

Ben Pauling

1 winner Today Ben Saddles Betty's Daisy

A G1 producing PTP sale held after racing in the winners’ enclosure at Aintree’s iconic Grand National Festival.

Dual Grade 1 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) 5 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10

RACE FACTS - A CLOSER LOOK

LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): D Skelton

23 wins from 158 runners, 15%) runs GETAWHISKY TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): F O’Brien (10 wins from 36 runners, 28%) runs BLUE BETTY

HIGHLAND HAVEN & STRONG RUN

LONGEST TRAVELLERS: OLDSCHOOL OUTLAW trained by G Caldwell & SEO LINN trained by P Twomey - both Ireland.

1 AMELIA’S STAR (IRE) (65) 21 5 11-2

Br Ch m Berkshire (IRE) - Cordione (IRE)

Nick Slatter J

O Shaw Racing & Graeme McPherson David Killahena & Graeme McPherson, Stow-On-The-Wold T

B Timothy Corcoran Pragnell S

TIMEFORM VIEW Solid start when runner-up at Wetherby in November and didn’t need to improve on that form when going one better at Newcastle in January Will need to advance her form considerably to play a prominent role here, though. TFRHHIII BHA105

2

BETTY’S

DAISY

(GB) (41) 1 5 11-2

Br B m Jack Hobbs - Burgundy Betty (IRE) Ben Jones J

O Mrs Bridget Henley Ben Pauling, Naunton T

B Mrs Bridget Henley Fitzdares S

TIMEFORM VIEW Jack Hobbs mare from a good family who looked a useful prospect when winning a Warwick bumper on debut (heavy) in February Respected for last year’s winning yard TFRHHHHI BHA116

3 BLUE BETTY (GB) (65)

Br B m Blue Bresil (FR) - Bit of A Geordie

5 11-2

Kielan Woods J

O The Megsons Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

B Brendan Keogh BresBet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Blue Bresil mare who struck on her soft-ground Newcastle debut in January That was an ordinary race but she did it in the style of one who can go on to better things. Tongue tie added now. TFRHHHII BHA108

4 CELESTRON STAR (GB) (26)

61 5 11-2

Br B m Telescope (IRE) - Run Ructions Run (IRE) Luke Scott J

O Upton House Stud & Chris Stedman Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole, Droitwich T

B Laura Newland & Caroline Stedman Coulthursts Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Only midfield on Wincanton debut in January but much sharper when winning a 12-runner event at Hereford 7 weeks later A fair bit more improvement will be required if she’s to follow up here.

5 CHARISMA CAT (GB) (26) 1121

Br B m Nathaniel (IRE) - Tidara Angel (IRE)

TFRHHIII BHA112

5 11-2

Tom Cannon J

O Annabel Waley-Cohen, family and friends Alan King, Barbury Castle T

B Upton Viva Stud Upton Viva Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Made it 3-4 in bumpers when seeing off 9 rivals in a Sandown Listed race (good to soft) last month. This is harder but she should be in the mix again for a yard no stranger to success in this.

TFRHHHII BHA119

6 GETAWHISKY (GB) (76) 14 D 5 11-2

Br Gr m Getaway (GER) - Whisky Rose (IRE)

Harry Skelton J

O Distillery Stud & Alne Park Stud Dan Skelton, Alcester T

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

TIMEFORM VIEW Sister to useful hurdler/smart chase winner One For Rosie and made a successful start to her career at Carlisle in November Beaten 3 3/4 lengths into fourth by Kingston Queen in Market Rasen Listed event since but was better than the result having been forced wide on the home bend. TFRHHHHI BHA114

7 HIGHLAND HAVEN (GB) (54) 162 5 11-2

Br B m Kayf Tara - Highland Retreat Liam Harrison J

O Mr Walid Marzouk Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

B Sullivan Bloodstock Ltd BresBet S

TIMEFORM VIEW Easy to back but barely came off the bridle when making a winning start in a Ffos Las bumper in November Testing conditions perhaps to blame for low-key display next time and duly got back on track when narrowly denied by reopposing stablemate Strong Run at Warwick (soft) in February TFRHHHII BHA117

8 JACKIE HOBBS (GB) (47)

1-11 5 11-2

Br B m Jack Hobbs - Miss Milborne Paul O’Brien J

O Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate - Jackie Harry Derham, Newbury T

B Barrow Hill Olive Print & Graphics S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fetched £130,000 after winning her only start in points and has looked a good prospect when going 2-2 in bumpers, drawing clear late to score by 3 lengths at Ascot (good) latterly Likely there’s more to come and on the shortlist. TFRHHHHI BHA121

9 KAPABILITY

(FR) (116) 14 CD BF

Br B m Authorized (IRE) - Daska d’Airy (FR)

5 11-2

Harry Cobden J

O Mr Richard & Mrs Carol Cheshire Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster T

B S.C.E.A. de La Vallee De L’Orne geegeez.co.uk S

TIMEFORM VIEW Made a winning debut over C&D (good to soft) in October Beaten favourite for Huntingdon Listed event on more testing ground in December but given time since and could bounce back faced with a sounder surface TFRHHHHI BHA113

10 KINGSTON QUEEN

(IRE) (76) 1-3211 D 5 11-2

Br Gr m Kingston Hill - Competitive Affair (IRE) Jack Tudor J

O The Kingstonians David Pipe, Wellington T

B Jimmy Lawler W & S Recycling S

TIMEFORM VIEW £80,000 point winner who has made good progress in bumpers, winning at Sedgefield on Boxing Day and following up in Market Rasen Listed race in January TFRHHHII BHA119

11 LA CONQUIERE (FR) (103) 2

6 11-2

Br B m Le Havre (IRE) - Montebella (FR) Gavin Sheehan J

O Jamie Snowden Racing Club Jamie Snowden, Lambourn T

B Franklin Finance & S. Vidal & E. Ribard BetVictor S

TIMEFORM VIEW 80/1, promising first effort when giving a Willie Mullins odds-on shot a fright at Thurles (good) in December That was for Denis Leahy and now under the care of Jamie Snowden. TFRHHHII BHA109

12 LA ZOUBIDA (FR) (58)

21 D 5 11-2

Br B m Authorized (IRE) - Titi Jolie (FR) Sean Quinlan J

O Fine Claret Racing Nicky Richards, Greystoke T

B Dr V. Roger-Yves Simon et al Equine Products Ltd (Equine Nutrition) S

TIMEFORM VIEW Chased home Kingston Queen on her Sedgefield debut before going one better at Market Rasen (good to soft) 6 weeks later May do better again. TFRHHHII BHA105

13 OLDSCHOOL OUTLAW (IRE) (31) 232

5 11-2

Br B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Myztique (IRE) Mr Harry Swan J

O Dundara Syndicate Garry Caldwell, Ireland T

B Ms M. McKenna

TIMEFORM VIEW Walk In The Park mare who was placed in points prior to finishing second of 14 in Leopardstown bumper last month, collared only near the finish. TFRHHHII BHA106

14 QUEEN KATE

(GB) (20) 1 D 5 11-2

Br B m Frontiersman - Roll On Ruby (IRE)

James Bowen J

O Big Time Billy Racing Peter & Michael Bowen, Haverfordwest T

B John Bryan

TIMEFORM VIEW Frontiersman mare who made a successful start to her career in a 7-runner Doncaster bumper 3 weeks ago but the form she achieved on that occasion is well short of the required standard here. TFRHHIII BHA105

15 ROSES ALL THE WAY (IRE) (54) 2-223 6 11-2

Br B m Workforce - Snug Bunch (IRE) Brian Hughes J

O Mrs Miranda Johnson Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

B J. Conlon Prisma Colour Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Second on sole start between the flags and fair form when placed on all three starts in this sphere, third of 13 to Strong Run and Highland Haven at Warwick on latest occasion. Likely vulnerable here. TFRHHIII BHA113

16 SEO LINN (IRE) (138) 2141

5 11-2

Br B m Order of St George (IRE) - Persian Filly (IRE) W. J. Lee J

O Mrs A. Phelan & Mrs Bridget Beckett P. Twomey, Ireland T

B Glashare House Stud

TIMEFORM VIEW Second bumper success when bagging a Cheltenham Listed event under Billy Lee in November Seemingly kept fresh for this since Should go well for a good Flat stable TFRHHHHH BHA117

17 ST IRENE (IRE) (116) 163

5 11-2

Br Gr m Malinas (GER) - Seren Gris Jack Quinlan J

O The Saints B F Brookhouse Newmarket T

B Rbr Bloodstock Ltd & Rathbarry Stud SBZ Corporation Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Well prepared for debut when scoring at Southwell last May but her limitations having seemingly been exposed in a couple of Listed bumpers since TFRHHIII BHA110

18 ST JESSICA (IRE) (56) 2

5 11-2

Br B m Malinas (GER) - Jessber’s Dream (IRE) Rachael Blackmore J

O The Saints B F Brookhouse Newmarket T

B P. Cashman SBZ Corporation Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW 10/1, shaped well when second of 12 on Huntingdon debut 8 weeks ago but this is a jump in class for this daughter of Malinas. TFRHHIII BHA104

19 STRONG RUN (GB) (54) 231

6 11-2

Br B m Passing Glance - Strong Westerner (IRE) Jonathan Burke J

O Welfordgolf syndicate Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T

B R. Rainbow & Sons Welford On Avon Golf Course Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Sister to useful bumper winner/very smart hurdler Strong Leader Placed first 2 starts (including Listed event) before edging out reopposing stable-companion Highland Haven at Warwick (soft) in February Her yard knows what it takes to win this. TFRHHHII BHA114

Br B f Decorated Knight - Kuragina (IRE)

O Paul Cairns Racing Limited

Sean Bowen J

Patrick Owens, Newmarket T

B Paul Cairns Racing Limited Cairns Homes S

TIMEFORM VIEW Has progressed with each start, finishing second of 8 at Huntingdon on the latest 10 weeks ago A good chunk of improvement will be needed to get heavily involved here, though. TFRHHIII BHA104

DECLARED RUNNERS 20 2024: DIVA LUNA (IRE) 5 11 2 Kielan Woods 13-2 (Ben Pauling) 16 ran Tongue Strap worn first time by No 3.

Probable S.P’s: 5-1 Seo Linn (IRE), 13-2 Jackie Hobbs (GB), 9-1 Betty’s Daisy (GB), Charisma Cat (GB), 12-1 Strong Run (GB), 14-1 Blue Betty (GB), Getawhisky (GB), Kingston Queen (IRE), 16-1 Kapability (FR), 18-1 Highland Haven (GB), 40-1 La Conquiere (FR), La Zoubida (FR), 50-1 Oldschool Outlaw (IRE), Queen Kate (GB), 66-1 Amelia’s Star (IRE), Roses All The Way (IRE), St Irene (IRE), 80-1 Celestron Star (GB), 150-1 St Jessica (IRE), Slack Alice (GB)

It looks as if Paddy Twomey has saved SEO LINN for this since her comfortable Cheltenham Listed success in November and this daughter of Order of St George can strike again under Billy Lee. The unbeaten Jackie Hobbs heads the many dangers along with Betty’s Daisy, for last year’s winning stable and October’s C&D scorer Kapability.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.SEO

TODAY’S RACE CONDITIONS

First Race 1.45 - THE EBC GROUP 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, the fifth £3192, the sixth £1596, the seventh £792 and the eighth £408. for novice five yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating 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, March 28th and pay £600 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. Weights: 11st 7lb each Mares allowed 7lb A memento will be presented to the Winning Owner 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 Aintree 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 16 entries at £600 - Closed March 28th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £51648; Second £21288; Third £10644; Fourth £5328; Fifth £2664; Sixth £1332; Seventh £660; Eighth £336. (Penalty Value £67524) A SEE PAGE 18 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 2.20 - 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. Enter by noon, March 28th and pay £550 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. Weights: 11st 2lb each Fillies allowed 7lb BOODLES have generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the Winning Owner 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 18 entries at £550 - Closed March 28th, 2025. 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 26 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 2.55 - THE BROOKLANDS GOLDEN MILLER CHRONOGRAPH 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, the fifth £6625, the sixth £3300 the seventh £1700 and the eighth £900 for five yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating 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, March 28th and pay £1250 stake, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 31st and pay £8280 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 8lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 10lb Mares allowed 7lb Brooklands 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 BROOKLANDS. 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 12 entries at £1250 - Closed March 28th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £107400; Second £44200; Third £22100; Fourth £11050; Fifth £5525; Sixth £2750; Seventh £1400; Eighth £675. (Penalty Value £140325) A SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 3.30 - 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 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, March 28th and pay £1250 stake, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 31st and pay £10340 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. 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. 13 entries at £1250 - Closed March 28th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £107400; Second £44200; Third £22100; Fourth £11050; Fifth £5525; Sixth £2750; Seventh £1400 (Penalty Value £140325) A SEE PAGE 40 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 4.05 - 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 2022, and before March 18th, 2025, 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 18th and pay £75 stake, Confirm by noon, March 28th and pay £175, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. 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 Veterinary Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 22nd March, 2025, with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 34 entries, 4 at £75, 30 at £250 - Closed March 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £20995; Second £10495; Third £5250; Fourth £2625; Fifth £1310; Sixth £655; Seventh £330; Eighth £165. (Penalty Value £24155) 1 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10 A HC SEE PAGE 48 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 1st. Penalties, after March 22nd, 2025, a winner of a steeple chase 4lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. CLOSE BROTHERS 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 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 23 entries, 1 at £100 and 22 at £500 - Closed March 28th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £43040; Second £17740; Third £8870; Fourth £4440; Fifth £2220; Sixth £1110; Seventh £550; Eighth £280 (Penalty Value £56270) Weights raised 9lb 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, March 28th and pay £250 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. April 1st. 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 20 entries at £250 - Closed March 28th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £21520; Second £8870; Third £4435; Fourth £2220; Fifth £1110; Sixth £555; Seventh £275; Eighth £140 (Penalty Value £28135) 5 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. A SEE PAGE 58 FOR THIS RACE.

SAME HEART FRESH START

YOU’RE PART OF SPORTS GREATEST STORY