Madison De Berlais is, indisputably, the best of 40 'decs' for the Aintree Grand National Handicap Chase over four and a half miles today. Despite being top-weight, David Pipe's charge is best-in on my time-handicap but will the weight prove too much? That's the 64,000 question because, over such a distance, the cumulative effect of a welter burden can eventually anchor a thoroughbred. Perhaps class will out and give Tom Scudamore a day to remember, just like OxO did for his grand-father, Michael, more than fifty years ago. I can remember that.
Multi-champion jockey, Peter, never managed to win this great race but he'd gain tremendous pleasure and pride if indeed son, Tom, proves triumphant. 66/1 appealed on Thursday morning and a bet was struck with William Hill. I think I'll get a run for my money but I'm not keen on chasing losses and wont be backing Zaynar, for the Dick Francis Hurdle over two and a half miles. Zaynay was a gallant third in the Champion Hurdle, with Khyber Kim six lengths in front, runner-up to Binocular. It was a tough race. The placed horses are unlikely to have recovered and that's why I'll chance fourth home, Celestial Halo.
Although Celestial Halo made the running and weakened in the closing stages, Paul Nicholls' charge wasn't 'knocked about' and this could prove 'a winner!' Celestial Halo was only beaten three lengths in the 2008 St Leger (should have been closer!) and if all eight run, smacks of a classic each-way bet. Make sure they do before having a bet.
Bookies will be all out to get one out and deny punters three places. You would never believe to what depths they'd go.
SELECTIONS
RACE 2 (#6) PEDDLERS CROSS
RACE 8 (#1) CELESTIAL HALO
RACE 15 (#1) MADISON DU BERLAIS
RACE 30 (#1) HIGH IMPORTANCE