Most of the runners or entries will not be clear until nearer the time, however there are some interesting trends surrounding the races. We will concentrate on trends at this stage and try and fill in some names nearer the time.
1:45 John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap Hurdle
Five and six year olds have an excellent record in the race.
Top weights do badly with no winner carrying more than 11 stone winning since 1990. In contrast two-thirds of winners in the last 18 years have carried 10 st 2 lbs or less.
The Irish have a 50% strike rate in recent years, whereas this is a terrible race for favourites, with the last 13 being beaten.
2:15 John Smith’s Maghull Novices Chase
Another significant Cheltenham pointer here with the last 13 winners having run in the Arkle Trophy.
This is also a good race for those at the head of the betting, with the last ten winners being in the top three in the betting.
Nicky Henderson has a terrible (0 from 16) record in the race, in contrast French bred runners have an excellent strike rate in recent years.
2:50 The Scottish and Newcastle Pub Enterprise Aintree Hurdle
Only one five year old had won in twenty years, although if Katchit runs it would be worth ignoring that stat.
A more interesting point is that all eleven Champion Hurdle runners up who have contested the race have been beaten, a big negative for Osana if running.
3:25 John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle
All twenty winners had raced at least four times in the current season, with the last 12 winners being rated between 124 - 134.
Only one five year old has won the race.
4:15 The John Smith’s Grand National Chase
5:00 The John Smith’s Novices Handicap Chase
This is a race where horses who have previously won over fences have a good record, not only that the majority of winners were placed last time out.