Irish Grand National: Trends, a ground horse and a live outsider to follow at Fairyhouse

One of the biggest races on the Irish national hunt calendar is the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse and this year’s renewal is set to be an absolute cracker! If you are into trends, following what horse will enjoy the ground, or want an outsider to back, stay tuned!

Trends

• 150/1 and 40/1 winners from the last 5 runnings
• The last three winners were French-bred
• The last five winners were aged between 6 and 9
• Under the radar trainers have won 4 of the last 5
• 3 of the last 5 carried a maximum weight of 10-13

The horse that ticks every one of those boxes is the outsider Hartur d’Arc who is a huge price for John McConnell. He was runner-up in last year’s Leinster National off 137 for Gavin Cromwell and he’s 1lb lower now. He wasn’t disgraced in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown at Christmas but ran poorly in two starts over hurdles since. He certainly has a chance at his very best.

Ground Horse

The Jukebox Kid loves soft ground and the British challenger certainly has a massive chance on all known form. Ben Pauling’s runner was sent chasing early in his career and he has been hugely progressive of late, winning three of his four outings, including the 3m Ascot Grade 2 novice when last seen. He looks a dour stayer and will be a big danger to all.

Live Outsider

Another outsider who could be worth following is Karia Des Blaises, who was talked up by Willie Mullins as a good each-way bet when interviewed on RTE Racing in Ireland. She won a 2m5f Thurles listed mares’ novice when last seen and Mullins feels she will get the trip.

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.