Blaklion returns to the Grand National this year after finishing fourth in the world’s most famous steeplechase in 2017, in what was a respectable opening run from Nigel Twiston-Davies’ horse at Aintree. The nine-year-old hit the front after the 26th obstacle; however, unfortunately for connections, a mistake not long after cost him any chance of winning the race.

Faith should be kept with Blaklion to go three places better this time around though, as he has proved over the last couple of years that he enjoys the big fences around the Merseyside track. Although, over a shorter trip, he was successful in the Becher Chase last December in a dominant display which saw him finish nine lengths ahead of his rivals. which were headed by The Last Samuri.

On his most recent outing in the Grand National Trial at Haydock, Blaklion was asked to concede a lot of weight to the rest of the field as he was the highest rated horse in the handicap, which meant he had to carry 11st-12lbs on his back. Twiston-Davies’ runner almost pulled off one of the most impressive performances in many years at the Lancashire track, as he was in contention in the closing stages before Yala Enki broke away and took the race. That runner-up finish, though, proved that he has the stamina to win the Grand National, as it came on testing ground at Haydock in the 3m4f contest.

One of the other major pluses for Blaklion is the fact he will be ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies at Aintree. The young jockey is proving to be one of the most talented riders in the UK and that is reflected by the fact he is now the retained jockey for Paul Nicholls, who is a former champion trainer in the UK.

At 15.0 in the Grand National betting, Blacklion looks fantastic value, especially if you are taking advantage of the free bet offers listed by Oddschecker ahead of the meeting in April. The reliable chaser is better prepared this time around for a shot at 4m2f race, so he has to be on your shortlist if you are having a bet.

Saint Are Is Excellent Value For Another Strong Finish At Aintree

If you look for an outsider in the Grand National this year, look no further than Saint Are who is a very generous at 51.0 in the ante-post market for the race. The 12-year-old was second in the contest in 2015 behind Many Clouds. While, in 2017 he showed he still has the enthusiasm for the steeplechase, as he came home third behind One For Arthur.

Given how much of a specialist race the Grand National is, horses like Saint Are, who consistently finish in the placing for the contest, always have to be considered. He looks to have been underestimated by the bookmakers once again, so hopefully he adds another placing to his career in what could be his last shot at the world famous race.

Selections

Blacklion to win the Grand National – odds: 15.0
Saint Are each-way in the Grand National – odds: 51.0