MARCUS TOWNEND’S GUIDE TO THE BIG RACE

The Grand National boasts a tradition for producing thrilling finishes, unsung heroes and heart-warming stories. Our Racing Correspondent runs the rule over a few who could make the 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 Scottish-trained winner of the race. SANDYMOUNT DUKE 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. Another solid contender for Scotland. 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. 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-yearold. He only cost his syndicate £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 contender, who is trying to emulate 2016 winner Rule The World and record his first success over fences in the Grand National. TEA FOR TWO Represents trainer Jane Williams and her jockey daughter, Lizzie Kelly (left) but has been well below form recently.