The excitement is palpable at Aintree as the Grand National Festival kicks off its final day with the much-anticipated Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase set to take place at 4:00 PM today, April 5, 2025. Horse racing enthusiasts are gearing up for one of the most challenging and prestigious races in the sport, where 34 runners will vie for a share of the staggering £1,000,000 prize pool.
Among the favorites is I Am Maximus, a 9-year-old trained by Willie Mullins, who has shown remarkable form with a weight of 11-12. Another strong contender is Iroko, a 7-year-old trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, weighing in at 10-11. Perceval Legallois, an 8-year-old trained by Gavin Cromwell and carrying 10-12, is also expected to perform well, having been highlighted by several experts as a potential winner.
Kevin Blake, a well-respected racing analyst, has shared his insights on the Grand National contenders, and his top pick is none other than Minella Cocooner. Blake believes that this horse ticks all the right boxes for success in today's race. He stated, "With the ground being on the drier side, the fact that he relished good ground when winning the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown last season is a plus. It is clear that his connections have trained him for one race all season, and while the British handicapper hasn't relented with him as the Irish handicapper has, he still looks to be on a perfectly fair mark. The stamina test will play to his strengths, and there is a huge amount to like about his preparation. He looks to have a mighty chance."
Blake's 1-2-3-4 verdict for the Grand National stands as follows: 1) Minella Cocooner, 2) Intense Raffles, 3) Kandoo Kid, and 4) Perceval Legallois. Each horse has a unique strength that could play a pivotal role in the outcome of this grueling race.
Intense Raffles, trained by Tom Gibney, is another horse to watch. The seven-year-old has shown incredible progress after joining Gibney's stable, winning all three of his starts last season, including a strong performance in the Irish Grand National. Blake noted that the horse's connections have focused their entire season around the Grand National, which could pay off in a big way today.
Kandoo Kid, trained by Paul Nicholls, has also made a mark as a potential Grand National contender. He finished a commendable third over these fences in the Topham Handicap Chase last year, and his recent performances suggest he is still on an upward trajectory. Blake emphasized Kandoo Kid's proven ability to navigate the Grand National fences well, further solidifying his status as a leading contender.
The Grand National has undergone significant changes over the years, with the field size now reduced to 34 from the traditional 40. These adjustments have sparked debates among racing purists, but they have also made the race more accessible for a new generation of horses. The alterations to the fences, particularly after the 2012 renewal, have made them more forgiving for horses that might have struggled in previous years. Blake remarked that the new structure means that horses with less experience over fences can still compete effectively, shifting the focus to younger, less-raced chasers.
As the day unfolds, punters are also eager to take advantage of betting opportunities surrounding the Grand National. Betfair is offering a sign-up bonus of £5 in free bets for new customers, which can be utilized during today's race. To qualify for this bonus, new users must deposit a minimum of £10, making it an enticing offer for those looking to enhance their betting experience.
The Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase is not just a test of speed and skill; it also serves as a thrilling spectacle for fans and bettors alike. With a total prize pool of £1,000,000, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. The breakdown of the prize money reflects the race's prestige: £500,000 for the winner, £200,000 for second place, and £100,000 for third place, with additional rewards for the top finishers.
As the clock ticks down to race time, anticipation continues to build. The horses are being prepared, and jockeys are getting into their zones, ready to tackle one of the toughest challenges in horse racing. Fans at Aintree and those watching from home are sure to be glued to their screens, eager to see which horse will emerge victorious in this legendary race.
In conclusion, the Randox Grand National promises to deliver excitement, drama, and perhaps a few surprises. With expert tips and a focus on the top contenders, all eyes will be on the track when the gates open at 4:00 PM. May the best horse win!
