Gordon Elliott Sets Sights on Grand National History with Five-Horse Assault
Irish trainer Gordon Elliott has launched a formidable five-runner challenge for the Grand National on Saturday, aiming to secure a fourth victory in the world's most famous steeplechase. This would place him in a tie for the all-time record, following a triumphant opening day at Aintree where he notched a 15-1 Grade One double.
Brighterdaysahead Shines in Aintree Hurdle Victory
The highlight of Elliott's afternoon was Brighterdaysahead's impressive two-and-a-quarter-length win over Dan Skelton's The New Lion in the Aintree Hurdle. This result reaffirmed the form from last month's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, where the pair finished second and third. Despite this success, Brighterdaysahead has yet to win at Cheltenham in three attempts, a record that slightly tempers enthusiasm for future ante-post prices.
Elliott expressed high hopes for the mare, stating, "She's the apple of all our eyes. I think two and a half miles probably is her trip, and I'd say we're probably going to go chasing next season." He added that she was initially slated for chasing this year but was sidelined by a muscle injury, emphasizing that her best performances are still ahead.
Competitive Field and Trainer Reactions
Dan Skelton reflected on The New Lion's performance, noting frustration over a sketchy jump at the final flight that hindered their chances. "I'm not crestfallen, just a bit frustrated we didn't get a jump at the last," Skelton said. "I feel like we've got unfinished business. Next year, everyone is a year older, and maybe there are lessons to be learned."
Willie Mullins, who dominated last year's opening day with four Grade One wins, drew a blank this time. Victories went to Koktail Divin in the Manifesto Novice Chase and Jango Baie in the Racing Welfare Bowl, with Mullins's Selma De Vary narrowly defeated by Elliott's Mange Tout in the juvenile hurdle.
Nicky Henderson faced mixed fortunes, with Lulamba unseating jockey Nico de Boinville in the Manifesto Novice Chase but bouncing back as Jango Baie won the Bowl after Impaire Et Passe fell. Henderson praised De Boinville's resilience, saying, "To pick yourself up, that's testament to a Grade One jockey."
Grand National Field Adjustments and Preview
The final field for the Grand National will include two horses from the reserves list after Nick Rockett and Spillane's Tower were withdrawn. Initially, Elliott's Pied Piper was promoted but later ruled out, allowing Imperial Saint and Amirite to secure spots in the 34-runner field.
Looking ahead to day two, the Topham Handicap Chase over the Grand National fences is a key betting race. Dan Skelton's Madara, a Cheltenham Plate winner, is favored but faces historical trends against festival performers in this event. Analysts suggest considering alternatives like Henry de Bromhead's Coming Up Easy for value bets.
Other tips for Friday's races include Emid’io Pepe in the 1.45, Gold Dancer in the 2.20, and Heart Wood in the 3.30, among others, as the meeting continues to build excitement towards Saturday's main event.
