DON’T PUSH IT (Jonjo O`Neill)
Bidding to become the first horse since Red Rum in 1974 to land back-to-back victories but faces a stiff task off top weight. Nevertheless, he loves Aintree and shaped well on his prep run a Cheltenham.
TIDAL BAY (Howard Johnson)
As quirky as he is talented, it is impossible to predict how he will react to the unique fences and the extreme distance. If he takes to the course then he could be in the shake-up - it’s quite a big ’if’ though.
WHAT A FRIEND (Paul Nicholls)
His fourth in the Gold Cup gives him every chance and he is sure to attract plenty of support. Co-owned by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, this smart chaser would be a major player if he rises to the occasion and is ’well in’ at the weights,
VIC VENTURI (Dessie Hughes)
Unlucky in the race last year when he was hampered at the 20th fence and unseated his rider. Has won the Becher Chase over these obstacles and has been trained for another crack.
MAJESTIC CONCORDE (Dermot Weld)
A fascinating Irish contender, whose trainer went close with Greasepaint in 1983 and 1984. A winner on the Flat, over hurdles and over fences, he certainly has plenty of class and has been lightly raced over the last couple of years.
OR NOIR DE SOMOZA (David Pipe)
This purchase from France, where he was a prolific winner, has yet to run in Britain but connections have won the National in the past and are clearly excited by the nine-year-old. Hard to assess, however.
DOONEYS GATE (Willie Mullins)
May not be the stable’s first string, but a decent performer. His form stands up well and he was fourth in the Topham over these fences last April.
BIG FELLA THANKS (Ferdy Murphy)
Having his third attempt after finishing sixth and fourth in the last two years for Paul Nicholls and has since changed stables. Sure to have his supporters and he has been trained with just this day in mind.
THE TOTHER ONE (Paul Nicholls)
Very useful on his day and not that many miles on the clock. However, his jumping could be a big issue here as he does make the odd mistake.
BALLABRIGGS (Donald McCain)
Has been a big fancy for some time to continue the McCain family’s amazing record in this great race. Did not have his first run of the season until January and after two spins over hurdles shaped well when second back over fences at Kelso.
