As the excitement builds for the Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase, set to take place at Ayr on Saturday, April 12, 2025, all eyes are on the 23 declared runners vying for glory in this prestigious event. With a prize pot of £200,000 and a challenging course of four miles and 27 fences, this year’s renewal promises to deliver the thrills and spills that horse racing fans have come to expect.
The race, which kicks off at 15:35, marks a critical point in the British National Hunt Trainers' Championship, with Willie Mullins looking to close the gap on leader Dan Skelton. Mullins has declared a formidable six contenders, including last year’s winner Macdermott, who will be aiming to defend his title against a strong field.
Macdermott, trained by Mullins, returns to Ayr after a disappointing season thus far, but his experience and stamina from last year's victory make him a notable contender. He will carry a weight of 11 stone 6 pounds and will be ridden by D. E. Mullins. However, his recent form has raised questions about whether he can replicate last year’s success.
Among Mullins' other entries, Chosen Witness stands out as the antepost favorite. The eight-year-old has shown promise over hurdles but is yet to find his footing over fences, having unseated his rider in a previous race. Despite this, his pedigree and previous performances on this card last year, where he won over hurdles, have kept him in the spotlight.
Another strong contender from Mullins' stable is Olympic Man, who recently won a 2m4f beginners’ chase at Naas. While he is unproven over longer distances, his pedigree suggests he could adapt well to the marathon trip. Captain Cody and Klarc Kent round out Mullins' entries, both of whom have shown flashes of potential but will need to step up their game to challenge for the win.
Joe Tizzard’s Rock My Way is another horse to watch. The seven-year-old has been in fine form, finishing second in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham last month. He will carry a weight of 10 stone 11 pounds and is considered a chief threat to the favorites, particularly given his strong showing at Cheltenham. Tizzard’s confidence in his horse is evident, as he believes Rock My Way is well-suited for the demands of the Scottish Grand National.
Surrey Quest, who was narrowly defeated by Macdermott last year, is also making a return. Trained by Toby Lawes, Surrey Quest has shown consistent form this season and will be keen to avenge last year’s loss. With a weight of 11 stone 3 pounds, he is well-positioned to make a strong challenge.
In the mix, Dan Skelton will be looking to solidify his lead in the trainers' championship with his entries Sail Away and Snipe. Sail Away, who has had a mixed season, will need to find his best form to compete in this competitive field.
The Scottish Grand National has a reputation for surprises, and this year’s race is no exception. With a mix of seasoned competitors and rising stars, the potential for an upset is high. As the runners prepare to take to the track, the atmosphere at Ayr is electric, with fans eagerly anticipating the start of this thrilling contest.
As the race approaches, betting markets are buzzing with activity. Chosen Witness leads the odds at 11/2, closely followed by Olympic Man at 17/2, and Macdermott at 9/1. Rock My Way and Surrey Quest are both listed at 10/1, indicating strong support from punters.
Ground conditions will play a crucial role in the race, with softer ground favoring horses known for their stamina. Historically, horses carrying less than 11 stone have performed better in this race, making it essential for trainers to strategically assess their entries.
With the stakes higher than ever, the Scottish Grand National is set to be a thrilling spectacle. Fans and punters alike are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable day of racing. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell as these talented horses navigate the challenges of Ayr Racecourse in pursuit of glory.
In conclusion, the 2025 Scottish Grand National is shaping up to be a highly competitive event, with a mix of previous winners and fresh contenders. As the excitement builds, one thing is certain: this race will be a highlight of the National Hunt season.
