Cheltenham all over again? Ireland’s four best chances on Day 1 at Aintree

It’s fair to say that the Irish dominated at the Cheltenham Festival once again, with Willie Mullins doing most of the damage. Aintree’s Grand National Festival starts on Thursday so we’ve picked out Ireland’s four best chances of plundering Britain’s major prizes yet again. Why not check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing, where we will have a tip for every race at Aintree. You can also find our Grand National tip here.

2.20 Aintree

Kargese has already won a Grade 1, having landed the Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown in February. The Willie Mullins-trained filly finished second in the Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham last time out and a repeat effort will surely put her bang in the mix once again.

2.55 Aintree

Gerri Colombe was a little below-par when second to Galopin Des Champs at Leopardstown over Christmas but managed to get much closer to his rival in the Gold Cup last time out. Provided that he’s not feeling the after effects of that hard race, he’s very much the one to beat here.

3.30 Aintree

Bob Olinger has been somewhat resurgent this season, thanks to the efforts of trainer Henry de Bromhead and his team. He found only Champion Hurdle-winner State Man too good when second in the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown last time out and the return to 2m4f will suit.

5.15 Aintree

Baby Kate is no stranger to Britain as Willie Mullins’ mare was victorious in a Listed bumper at Cheltenham in November. That is amongst the best form on offer here and she’s been kept nice and fresh since. Clearly a nice prospect, the step into Grade 2 company looks justified and she should run well.

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