The big day we have been waiting for is nearly upon us as 34 runners are set to go to post for the biggest handicap chase on the planet, the Randox Grand National. A case can be made for at least half of the field so best of luck with your bets. You can check out our Saturday tips on our Aintree Grand National Festival page. Below are Adrian Wall’s three picks for the feature.
This boy comes with risks attached but if he gets a clear round he should hit the frame at the very least. He has refused to race in the past and he has his quirks, but he unseated Brian Hayes in the race last year when going well and he has had a lovely preparation for the race this year. His sole start was an eyecatching second in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter and he will stay this trip without a shadow of a doubt.
Given he was a much shorter price for this race a few months ago, Mahler Mission has to be on the shortlist at a decent price. John McConnell has revolved his entire campaign around getting this horse right for this race, and he ticks a lot of boxes. Second in the Newbury Gold Cup when last seen, he goes through soft ground like a knife through butter, will stay this trip and has a touch of class about him off a nice weight.
Gordon Elliott has a big team for the race but one that might go well at a price is Chemical Energy. This horse beat Mahler Misson by 61 lengths in a chase over three miles in October 2022 and was second to Gaillard du Mesnil in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham later in the season. He had a nice prep when sixth in the Kerry National and he can’t be ruled out.
If you back any of our selections you can watch them live on the free Racing Post app or racingpost.com. Simply log in to one of your bookmaker accounts and click ‘Watch live’ on the racecards.