Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase Raceday

The Aintree Grand National Festival kicks off with a bang on Day 1, featuring top-class racing that promises to deliver excitement from start to finish. From Grade 1 showdowns to competitive handicaps, there’s plenty to look forward to. Let’s take a look at each race in order and set the stage for a thrilling day.

Race 1: EBC Group Manifesto Novices’ Chase (Grade 1)

The opening race of the day is a Grade 1 contest for novice chasers. Croke Park comes into this race with a solid record and has the potential to build on their promising performances. Jango Baie, who brings strong form into this race, will be tough to beat, but Impaire Et Passe has the raw talent to make things interesting.

Gidleigh Park is a steady performer and could be ready to improve, while Rubaud will need to step up to compete with the front runners. The Kalooki Kid and Mark Of Gold are the outsiders but could provide value at longer odds.

Verdict: Croke Park looks well-placed for a win, with Jango Baie and Impaire Et Passe providing the toughest competition. Gidleigh Park could be a decent each-way bet.

Race 2: Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1)

This Grade 1 juvenile hurdle features some exciting up-and-coming talents. Puturhandstogether is the standout in this field, having shown impressive form and potential. Live Conti is another who has looked very competitive and will give the favorite a real run for their money.

Naturally Nimble is a horse on the rise, and if they continue to improve, they could be in the mix. Wendrock and Mambonumberfive are solid competitors but will need to raise their game to challenge the front runners.

Verdict: Puturhandstogether is the one to beat, with Live Conti as the main threat. Naturally Nimble could offer value for an each-way bet.

Race 3: Brooklands Golden Miller Chronograph Bowl Chase (Grade 1)

This is a high-quality race over 3 miles, and Grey Dawning has the potential to take this one. With strong form and the ability to go the distance, they look tough to beat. Spillane’s Tower will be a formidable competitor, and Embassy Gardens could spring a surprise if they continue to improve.

Stage Star and Ahoy Senor are worth considering; both have shown ability, though they’ll need to bring their A-game. Gaelic Warrior might be outclassed, while The Real Whacker and Djelo will be looking for big runs but face a tough challenge here.

Verdict: Grey Dawning should have the edge, with Spillane’s Tower and Embassy Gardens offering strong competition. Stage Star could offer each-way value.

Race 4: William Hill Aintree Hurdle (Grade 1)

This iconic Grade 1 race features some of the best hurdlers in the business. Constitution Hill is the obvious favorite, with their impressive form making them a tough opponent for anyone. Lossiemouth could be the main challenger, and while it’s a big ask to beat the favorite, they’ve shown enough promise to suggest they could have a say in the finish.

Wodhooh could be a great each-way option, while Take No Chances and Break My Soul are up against it but could be contenders for a place. Salver and Tellherthename are the outsiders and may need more to feature.

Verdict: Constitution Hill is the one to beat, with Lossiemouth the strongest threat. Wodhooh looks like a solid each-way option.

Race 5: Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase

This thrilling race brings the hunters’ chase to Aintree, and Willitgoahead looks the most likely winner. They’ve been in good form recently and have shown they can handle top-quality opposition. Lifetime Ambition has been consistent and should be a real contender.

My Drogo will need to improve to compete here, while Milan Forth and Bennys King could run into the frame if they bring their best form. Famous Clermont might surprise at longer odds, and Joker De Mai has a chance of causing an upset.

Verdict: Willitgoahead looks strong, with Lifetime Ambition the main challenger. Milan Forth could offer value each-way.

Race 6: Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)

This is a competitive handicap chase, and My Mate Mozzie looks well-placed to take the win. They’ve shown good form recently and have a lot of potential for this contest. Sans Bruit is a consistent performer and will provide tough competition, while General Medrano has the ability to get involved at the business end.

Primoz and The Folkes Tiara are solid contenders, though they will need to find a little more to challenge the favorites. Dr T J Eckleburg and Rath Gaul Hill could provide a surprise if things fall into place for them.

Verdict: My Mate Mozzie has the edge, with Sans Bruit and General Medrano offering the strongest challenges. Dr T J Eckleburg could be worth a look for value.

Race 7: Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade 2)

The final race of the day sees a field of exciting mares, with Seo Linn looking like the one to beat. This runner has been in good form and will be tough to surpass. Charisma Cat has also been performing well and will be looking to make a statement here.

Strong Run has been a consistent competitor and could easily get involved, while Betty’s Daisy and Blue Betty are both in with a chance of surprising at big odds.

Verdict: Seo Linn is the one to watch, with Charisma Cat a strong threat. Blue Betty could be worth an each-way bet.

Conclusion

Day 1 of the Aintree Grand National Festival promises to be a thrilling start to what is sure to be an action-packed event. With top-class racing across all seven races, there’s something for everyone, from novice chasers to talented mares. Whether you’re following the favourites or hunting for value, the day is shaping up to deliver plenty of excitement. Enjoy the action, and good luck to all punters!