Aintree Racecourse is synonymous with one of the world’s most iconic horse races, the Grand National, held annually in April. Beyond this showcase occasion, Aintree stages five additional fixtures throughout the year. In this page, you will find today’s Aintree racecards with the best horse racing betting tips from our top experts.
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Aintree 13:20
William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)
Winner £42,203, 2nd £15,900, 3rd £7,958, 4th £3,975, 5th £1,995, 6th £998, 7th £495, 8th £255
4yo+, 22 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 3m 149y , GOOD TO SOFT, Good in places on Mildmay course (GoingStick: Mildmay Chase 5.5, Mildmay Hurdle 5.3, Grand National course 5.3) (Watering)
Jeriko Du Reponet – Best odds: 6/1 – bet365
This six-year-old arrives off the back of a much-improved third at Kempton, suggesting he’s beginning to recapture his best form. With Nicky Henderson’s string going well, he must enter calculations in a race of this nature.
Rushmount – Best odds: 14/1 – Betvictor
Posted a commanding win at Limerick two starts ago, and although slightly below that level last time, a return to testing ground may play to his strengths. Looks well-handicapped if bouncing back.
Act Of Authority – Best odds: 9/1 – bet365
Olly Murphy’s charge has shown consistency and still appears progressive. Solid performer in big-field scenarios and could benefit from the long Aintree straight.
Kamsinas – Best odds: 16/1 – BetMGM
Ran a strong race in a similar contest last time out and looks likely to appreciate this extended trip. May go well at a price with cheekpieces retained.
Whatcouldhavebeen – Best odds: 50/1 – bet365
Struggled to land a blow in recent starts and will need a significant leap forward. Hard to recommend with confidence.
Dartan – Best odds: 66/1 – Betvictor
Looked laboured when reappearing and although better is expected second up, the level of opposition here might prove too strong.
Barry Lyndon – Best odds: 20/1 – bet365
Landed a competitive handicap last time and deserves respect for that performance. Stepping up in class now, but one for the shortlist if continuing on an upward curve.
Bo Zenith – Best odds: 11/1 – bet365
Twice placed in strong company this season and has a touch of class. Still looks unexposed at the trip and is one to monitor closely.
Bill Joyce – Best odds: 11/1 – BetMGM
Found a solid level of form this winter and was far from disgraced when third last time. Jonjo O’Neill Jr. retains the ride, and there may be more to come at three miles.
Push The Button – Best odds: 16/1 – Betvictor
Yet to fully convince in this grade but represents a yard that can bring one forward significantly on big days. Interesting if market support arrives.
Timmy Tuesday – Best odds: 10/1 – bet365
Has improved for each outing and shaped well on both recent wins. The return to a left-handed track and extended trip might see him reach new heights.
Building Bridges – Best odds: 25/1 – Betvictor
Tough and consistent hurdler with some decent Irish form. Might find one or two with more class in this deep renewal, but not without a chance for place honours.
Park Of Kings – Best odds: 12/1 – bet365
Twice runner-up in recent efforts and has shaped like this kind of test may bring out further improvement. Dangerous if allowed an easy lead.
Dinons – Best odds: 100/1 – BetMGM
Veteran with a patchy profile of late and faces a stiff challenge against younger legs. Needs a revival of past form to get involved.
Nurse Susan – Best odds: 14/1 – Betvictor
Lightly raced but very capable on her day. Missed her return engagement but could prove well-treated if returning fully tuned.
Double Powerful – Best odds: 14/1 – bet365
Unbeaten in three before finding one too good recently. Stamina not guaranteed over this trip but yard is in form and he arrives with confidence.
Jipcot – Best odds: 18/1 – BetMGM
Fairly reliable and has held form in decent company. Needs a career-best, but consistent types like him often outperform their odds in these contests.
Catch Him Derry – Best odds: 13/2 – bet365
Caught the eye with a fluent win two starts ago and ran respectably since. Progressive profile and a leading player with conditions in his favour.
Deep Cave – Best odds: 35/1 – Betvictor
Has failed to build on earlier promise this term and looks vulnerable against several more progressive rivals.
Shanagh Bob – Best odds: 40/1 – bet365
Form has tailed off lately and connections will be hoping for a resurgence. Risky proposition in a field of this quality.
Verdict
An extremely open renewal where many have solid claims. Catch Him Derry brings a rising profile and handles conditions well, but Act Of Authority gets the narrow nod. Olly Murphy’s gelding has been shaping with real purpose and the longer distance looks tailor-made. Timmy Tuesday also makes the shortlist as one with more to offer at this trip. A thrilling contest in prospect.
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Aintree 13:55
William Hill Betting Done Properly Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Winner £18,484, 2nd £8,505, 3rd £4,253, 4th £2,128, 5th £1,061
4yo+, 6 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 2m 3f 200y , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
Castle Carrock – Best odds: 28/1 – BetMGM
Despite a flawless two-from-two start to the campaign, he was turned over last time in calmer waters. Will need to take a notable step forward to feature in a field of this calibre.
Funiculi Funicula – Best odds: 50/1 – Betvictor
Lightly raced and hasn’t been able to replicate his debut success in two subsequent outings. Faces a daunting task here against more polished opposition.
Good And Clever – Best odds: 20/1 – bet365
A trio of consistent placed efforts mark him out as dependable, though the ceiling of his ability might fall just short in this Grade 1. Could sneak into the frame if things fall his way.
Honesty Policy – Best odds: 18/1 – Betvictor
A steadily improving five-year-old who completed a double in stylish fashion last month. This marks his sternest assignment yet, but he travels strongly and has an excellent attitude.
Horaces Pearl – Best odds: 13/2 – bet365
Unbeaten in four career starts and has shown gritty determination to keep his record intact. Could be a serious player now up in class, especially if the pace is generous early on.
Kappa Jy Pyke – Best odds: 20/1 – BetMGM
Lost little in defeat last time, having previously dominated a moderate field. Might need more seasoning to compete at this grade but represents powerful connections and cannot be fully dismissed.
Koktail Divin – Best odds: 6/1 – bet365
Well-placed to make a real impact here, having performed with credit in a Listed event. Progressing nicely for a stable that does well at the meeting. Will relish the extra distance.
Miami Magic – Best odds: 11/1 – Betvictor
Reliable sort with a fine record of late and arrives following a pair of solid runner-up finishes. Might just be a touch below the very top tier, but should give another honest account.
Moon Phases – Best odds: 80/1 – bet365
Showed some promise when runner-up on reappearance but that bare form leaves him with a mountain to climb. One for minor place aspirations at best.
Regent’s Stroll – Best odds: 15/2 – BetMGM
Built a compelling profile with three victories from his last four, including a gutsy front-running display. Will be tested for pace here but remains on the upgrade and can’t be overlooked.
Lulamba – Best odds: 11/10 – bet365
Dominant in each of his three appearances, and posted an eye-catching performance last time in graded company. The one they all have to beat on paper and looks tailor-made for this test.
Verdict
While Lulamba brings standout credentials and remains unbeaten, the vote goes to Koktail Divin, who has shaped like this step up in trip will bring further improvement. His progressive profile and tactical speed could prove decisive in a race where plenty will be finishing late. Regent’s Stroll is another live threat and should not be underestimated in this fiercely competitive Grade 1 showdown.
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Aintree 14:30
William Hill Formby Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race)
Winner £56,950, 2nd £21,370, 3rd £10,700, 4th £5,330, 5th £2,680, 6th £1,340
3yo+, 7 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 2m 209y , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
Sam Brown – Best odds: 16/1 – bet365
Veteran campaigner who made experience count when scoring last time. Slightly unpredictable, but still capable when things fall right and testing ground would boost his claims.
Imperial Saint – Best odds: 11/2 – Betvictor
Holding his form admirably through a long campaign. Has form over the course and trip and looks well-in under the weights. A strong travelling type who could sit handy throughout.
Shakem Up’Arry – Best odds: 20/1 – bet365
Hasn’t quite fired since returning from a midseason break, but not one to rule out if he returns to the level of his big Cheltenham run last term. Dangerous if revived.
Le Milos – Best odds: 12/1 – BetMGM
Solid chaser with form in stronger fields, including a notable third in a big handicap. Needs to defy a stiff mark now, though conditions may help him get into a rhythm.
Richmond Lake – Best odds: 14/1 – bet365
Mixed bag of results this season but hinted at a revival before pulling up last time. Return to this trip could prove ideal and might sneak into contention if avoiding mistakes.
Peaky Boy – Best odds: 8/1 – BetMGM
Lightly raced over fences and progressing steadily. Strong jumper with staying power, and this test looks tailor-made. One of the more interesting contenders near the top of the market.
Happygolucky – Best odds: 13/2 – bet365
Back from a lengthy absence and shaped with encouragement in two recent spins. Classy on his day and a big run wouldn’t surprise from a handy mark.
Cruz Control – Best odds: 10/1 – Betvictor
Looked promising early this term but performances have since tailed off. Needs to recapture his early-season spark, though has proven staying form at the track.
Weveallbeencaught – Best odds: 10/1 – bet365
A strong galloper who finds more when others are tiring. Has shown up well in deeper races and is not out of this if allowed to dictate.
Heltenham – Best odds: 25/1 – BetMGM
A long shot but not without talent. Form has been inconsistent, yet hinted at ability last season. Faces an uphill task, but this yard is known for surprises.
Docpickedme – Best odds: 8/1 – bet365
Comes in with momentum after a career-best effort to score recently. Races prominently, and if getting into a good rhythm early, he could stay on gallantly.
Frero Banbou – Best odds: 28/1 – Betvictor
Usually seen over shorter, and although he’s tried staying distances before, his stamina isn’t fully proven. Will need a patient ride and late bursts to have any say.
Erne River – Best odds: 22/1 – bet365
Hard horse to weigh up, with patchy efforts this season but still capable when on song. If blinkers spark a revival, he could go better than his odds suggest.
Charlie Uberalles – Best odds: 16/1 – BetMGM
Has picked up some decent handicaps and may still have a bit in hand. Recent form is slightly up and down, but stays well and could sneak into the mix late.
Verdict
Plenty of these arrive with a question to answer, but Peaky Boy has been improving steadily and could be the one to progress again with conditions to suit. Docpickedme appeals as a real battler with the form to compete, while Imperial Saint continues to impress with his consistency and should be thereabouts. A fiercely open handicap, but Peaky Boy gets the nod.
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Aintree 15:05
William Hill Offers Top Price Guarantees Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race)
Winner £20,812, 2nd £9,568, 3rd £4,784, 4th £2,392, 5th £1,196, 6th £596
4yo+, 9 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 2m 4f , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
Buddy One – Best odds: 20/1 – BetMGM
Has been on a mixed run since landing a nice prize in the autumn, with a couple of underwhelming displays since. Wouldn’t be the first to bounce back at Aintree, though others appear more solid.
Dashel Drasher – Best odds: 66/1 – Betvictor
An old favourite with a long CV of good efforts, though now 12 and showing signs of decline. Hasn’t been able to land a blow at this level lately and might find the younger legs too quick.
Gwennie May Boy – Best odds: 8/1 – bet365
Looked back to form when bouncing back at Cheltenham, staying on powerfully in the closing stages. Has more to give over long distances and could be involved if the race turns into a slog.
Hiddenvalley Lake – Best odds: 14/1 – Betvictor
Lightly raced this campaign but boasts decent staying credentials. Jumping can let him down under pressure, but he’s got the class to get involved if producing a smooth round.
Home By The Lee – Best odds: 6/1 – bet365
Well-fancied in top-level contests and twice victorious in similar grade before an unseat last time. Capable of mixing it with the best, though consistency remains a concern.
Kitzbuhel – Best odds: 9/2 – BetMGM
Progressive profile, landing back-to-back victories and still has untapped potential at this trip. Represents powerful connections and could be the dark horse in the field.
Monmiral – Best odds: 40/1 – bet365
Without a win since returning from a layoff, though he’s managed a couple of placed efforts in decent company. Needs everything to drop right and probably playing for minor money at best.
Sounds Russian – Best odds: 100/1 – Betvictor
Looked like he needed the run when reappearing and could come on for that outing. However, this is a big ask, and he might struggle to keep pace with the front end.
Strong Leader – Best odds: 6/1 – bet365
Flashed potential last season and has proven stamina. Capable of making an impression if he travels well into the race, though needs to bounce back from a disappointing effort last time.
Teahupoo – Best odds: 5/2 – bet365
Classy performer with standout form in Grade 1 company and twice runner-up in similar events. Should be suited by the trip and conditions and sets the standard if on song.
The Wallpark – Best odds: 9/1 – BetMGM
Consistent and game, with a trio of wins earlier in the season. Not flashy but extremely reliable and keeps finding off the bridle. Will be plugging on when others have had enough.
Jetara – Best odds: 33/1 – Betvictor
Useful in lesser company but yet to prove herself at this elite level. Hard to see her making a major impact unless the race collapses late on.
Verdict
Kitzbuhel is on the rise and brings fresh legs and a sharp turn of foot, which could be key over this stiff trip. Teahupoo is the class act and will be hard to keep out the frame if anywhere near his peak. Gwennie May Boy is also of interest, especially if the ground softens and this turns into a test of grit. A cracking renewal, but the nod goes to the improving Kitzbuhel.
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Aintree 16:00
William Hill Committed To Top Prices Handicap Chase (Challenger Staying Chase Series Qualifier)
Winner £13,008, 2nd £5,980, 3rd £2,990, 4th £1,495, 5th £748, 6th £373
4yo+, 8 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 3m 210y , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
1. Whistleinthedark (16/1) – BetMGM
Despite a quiet season so far, this nine-year-old has the stamina for this distance and could improve under Adam Wedge’s guidance. A bold showing would surprise but isn’t impossible.
2. Gustavian (4/1) – bet365
Sam Twiston-Davies takes the reins for Anthony Honeyball’s reliable chaser, who has proven consistency in staying trips. If he bounces back from his last effort, he’ll be a major player here.
3. Ikarak (11/4) – Betvictor
A recent winner, Ikarak continues to develop under Olly Murphy’s training. Sean Bowen partners the six-year-old, and another strong performance seems likely in this company.
4. Duke Of Deception (9/2) – BetMGM
This seven-year-old put in a solid effort to finish third last time out and appears capable of building on that form. Ben Smith teams up with Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero for a live chance.
5. Fortunate Man (9/4) – bet365
Consistently near the top of his races, Fortunate Man looks set for another big effort under Jonjo O’Neill Jr. His recent runner-up finish highlights his form, and he’s expected to go close again.
6. Busty Boy (25/1) – Betvictor
Struggling for his best, Busty Boy will need to rediscover his form to contend here. Brian Hughes’ expertise may bring about some improvement, but this looks a tough ask.
7. Jar Du Desert (7/1) – bet365
This five-year-old has steadily progressed and put in a strong showing to finish second last time. Charlie Hammond guides Nick Kent’s charge, who could be a lively outsider at these odds.
Verdict
Fortunate Man has been knocking on the door and looks well-placed to land the spoils here. Ikarak also has solid claims following his recent victory, while Duke Of Deception is an interesting contender with room to improve. For value, Jar Du Desert offers each-way appeal in what promises to be an exciting contest.
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Aintree 17:00
William Hill Cheltenham NRMB January 1st Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Winner £13,008, 2nd £5,980, 3rd £2,990, 4th £1,495, 5th £748, 6th £373
4yo+, 4 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 1m 7f 176y , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
1. Ballee (7/2) – BetMGM
Philip Hobbs and Johnson White’s five-year-old has shown flashes of promise but needs to regain consistency. Micheal Nolan takes the ride, aiming to extract improvement in a challenging field.
2. Inedit Star (4/1) – Betvictor
This six-year-old has been a model of reliability, placing in all his recent outings. Trained by Nick Kent, he is well-prepped for another strong display under Charlie Hammond.
3. Booster Bob (9/4) – bet365
Sean Bowen partners this Olly Murphy charge, who comes here with solid form, including a win two starts back. His ability to handle pressure in a fast-paced race will be key to his chances.
4. Doyen Du Bar (2/1) – Betvictor
Pauline Robson’s eight-year-old recently returned to form with a commanding victory. Brian Hughes retains the ride, and this horse looks to be peaking at the right time for another big performance.
Verdict
The selection is Doyen Du Bar, who comes into this contest with a decisive recent win and appears capable of following up. Booster Bob is a major threat with his solid form and reliable profile. For an each-way play, Inedit Star offers value as a consistent performer in this grade.
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Aintree 17:35
William Hill More Top Prices Open National Hunt Flat Race (Cat 1 Elim) (Go North Jodami Qual) (GBB)
Winner £8,169, 2nd £3,764, 3rd £1,881, 4th £942
4-5yo, 6 Runners
Jumps,Turf , 2m 209y , GOOD TO SOFT, Soft in places (GoingStick 4.0) (Rail movements: 11.55 & 1.40 +81yds, 12.30 +71yds, 1.05 & 3.25 +66yds, 2.15 +92yds and 2.50 +57yds)
1. Dalston Lad (6/4) – Betvictor
Dan Skelton’s undefeated four-year-old returns with a perfect record, showing maturity beyond his years. Kielan Woods partners him again, aiming to maintain their winning momentum.
2. Old Blue Eyes (8/1) – BetMGM
Donald McCain’s charge made a successful debut and looks capable of stepping up further. With Brian Hughes in the saddle, expect another bold showing.
3. Swindon Village (10/1) – bet365
Charlie Longsdon’s runner comes with a respectable victory last time out. Jonjo O’Neill Jr takes the reins, hoping to build on their promising form.
4. Is This For Real (7/2) – Betvictor
Fergal O’Brien’s promising four-year-old made an excellent start to his career and could make further progress under Liam Harrison. His price reflects his potential.
5. Race To Base (9/2) – BetMGM
Nigel Twiston-Davies introduces this unexposed contender who triumphed on debut. Sam Twiston-Davies retains the ride, and he could surprise with further improvement.
6. The Blue Room (6/1) – bet365
Sean Bowen guides Olly Murphy’s runner, who showed solid form last time out. He could feature prominently in what appears a competitive lineup.
Verdict
Dalston Lad is the one to beat with his unbeaten record and proven quality, but Is This For Real offers real value as a fast-progressing youngster. For those seeking an each-way option, Race To Base looks capable of springing a surprise.
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Aintree Racecourse: Home of the Grand National and a Rich Racing Heritage
The Grand National itself is run over an unconventional triangular circuit, with the Canal Turn marking its furthest point from the grandstands. Horses must navigate two full laps, tackling sixteen formidable spruce fences on the first circuit and fourteen on the second. It remains one of the most demanding challenges in the sport, testing both the endurance and jumping ability of horse and rider.
Aintree operates under the stewardship of The Jockey Club, an institution that has shaped British horse racing for over 260 years. As the country’s largest commercial racing organisation, The Jockey Club oversees numerous racecourses and plays a vital role in the sport’s development. With Her Majesty The Queen as its Patron, it reinvests all profits back into British racing, ensuring the continued growth and excellence of the sport.
Aintree Racecourse: A True Test of Stamina and Skill
Aintree is a venue that challenges both horse and rider, featuring two distinct courses: the Grand National and the Mildmay. The Grand National course is renowned as the ultimate test in jump racing, spanning two full circuits and covering a gruelling four miles and four furlongs. With 30 unique spruce-covered obstacles, including infamous fences such as The Chair, Becher’s Brook, and the Canal Turn, it demands bravery, stamina, and precise jumping. While modifications have been made in recent years to improve safety, the course remains a formidable challenge where a bold jumper is essential.
Establishing a smooth rhythm from the outset is crucial for any runner tackling Aintree’s demanding layout. The Grand National circuit weaves around the inside of the hurdles track, which itself is flat and sharp, providing a contrasting test. Fences come thick and fast, leaving little room for error, and the track’s emphasis on pace ensures that only strong travellers tend to thrive. Success here requires a combination of speed, agility, and a well-judged ride, making Aintree a course where both skill and strategy play a defining role.
