MARCUS TOWNEND’S GUIDE TO THE BIG RACE

THE Grand National boasts a glorious tradition for producing thrilling finishes, unsung heroes and heartwarming stories. Our Racing Correspondent runs the rule over a few who could be making the Aintree headlines next weekend. ONE FOR ARTHUR The Lucinda Russell-trained 2017 winner is back for more but his preparation has been far from ideal. Injury meant he missed last season and, having unseated his jockey on his two starts this season, he has not completed a race since the day he became only the second Scottishtrained winner.

SANDYMOUNT DUKE

A first Grand National runner for trainer Jessica Harrington and also for owner, Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood. The guitarist has a stud in Ireland but this is currently his only horse in training. It’s hard to see Sandymount Duke giving Wood satisfaction but his chance will not be harmed by having dual-winning jockey Leighton Aspell on board.

LAKE VIEW LAD

Trained around five miles from One For Arthur by former stockbroker Nick Alexander. Has had a great season and ran the perfect trial when third at the Cheltenham Festival. Along with Vintage Clouds will be trying to give veteran owner Trevor Hemmings a record fourth winner in the race.

ROCK THE KASBAH

A 21st ride in the race for three-time champion jockey Richard Johnson, who has twice been second. His mount has been kept fresh for this race and the lack of forecast rain will suit as he doesn’t like very soft ground.

JURY DUTY

Much of the focus is on Tiger Roll in the Gordon Elliott army, but he has strength in depth, particularly in this eight-year-old. He cost his syndicate only £23,000 and has won the US National. If he can win the British version he’d be emulating Battleship who landed his Grand National in 1938.

MALL DINI

His tilt at the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Presenting Percy did not work out for reclusive trainer Pat Kelly but he is back with an enigmatic but talented contender who is trying to emulate 2016 winner Rock The World and record his first success over fences in the Grand National.

TEA FOR TWO

Jockey of the moment Bryony Frost is injured and Aintree regulars Nina Carberry and Katie Walsh retired, but there will still be female jockeys in the race. Rachel Blackmore will pick up a ride and this gelding represents trainer Jane Williams and her jockey daughter Lizzie Kelly (left). Problem is this gelding has been well below form recently.