SALUTE THE GENERAL
PUT YOUR money on GENERAL PRINCIPLE (Aintree, 5.15) to lead home the Gigginstown battalions in today’s Randox Grand National.
The formidable Irish stud, owned by Ryanair supremo Michael O’Leary and brother Eddie, may have sold two of their intended runners in Don Poli and Outlander on Thursday, but with Tiger Roll and a host of other live chances, they have plenty of ammunition to secure a third National win in four years.
It almost goes without saying that Tiger Roll has a huge chance to make history today by becoming the first back-to-back National winner since Red Rum in 1974.
Many have tried and failed to follow in those legendary hoof prints, but Tiger Roll is arguably better equipped than most given he appears to still be improving. A smooth victory in a Grade Two Hurdle at Navan when an unconsidered 25-1 chance preceded a 22-length romp in the Glenfarclas Chase last month, when the diminutive gelding skipped around Cheltenham’s cross-country chase course.
Unfortunately, the bookmakers are also well aware of Tiger Roll’s capabilities and he looks likely to be sent off one of the shortest National favourites in recent times.
With that in mind, General Principle makes plenty of appeal at his price given he appears to have a live chance of carrying his owner’s famous colours to another success.
A game winner of the Irish National on atrocious ground last spring at Fairyhouse for today’s rider JJ Slevin, the 10-year-old was going well in a National trial at Cheltenham before a late error and he was pulled up when also hampered by a faller. The selection had previously finished behind stablemate Dounikos in the Punchestown Grand National Trial, while also showing up well in the Thyestes Chase in January.
Both of those performances suggested the fire still burns bright within General Principle and he will love conditions and could run a huge race off a light weight.
Others to catch the eye include Becher Chase winner Walk In The Mill, who hails from the same family as yesterday’s hero Min, and is one to watch at the foot of the handicap.
It is impossible to knock the claims of twice Gold Cup-placed Anibale Fly, although some will be put off by the weight he is carrying. He ran a blinder to be fourth last year and could go close again.
Vintage Clouds boasts experience in the Welsh and Scottish Nationals and posted a good effort at Cheltenham en route to Liverpool.