Expert Picks for Aintree Day One: Kevin Blake's Top Selections

The highly anticipated Grand National Festival kicks off at Aintree on Thursday, featuring four prestigious Grade One events. Renowned expert Kevin Blake shares his top picks for the day, including a trio of promising contenders. Following a successful stint at the Cheltenham Festival, Blake aims to replicate his success at Aintree. The first race of the week, the Randox Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase, takes place on Thursday, with LETS GO CHAMP emerging as a compelling candidate. Trained by Mags Mullins, this 11-year-old has demonstrated significant talent despite a challenging training history. With a strong track record, including a win at the Punchestown Festival and impressive performances in the Galway Plate and Paddy Power Gold Cup, LETS GO CHAMP is well-positioned for success. His racing style, characterized by strong traveling and forward-going at mid-range trips, makes him an attractive choice for this event. Furthermore, his excellent jumping technique and the familiarity of his rider, Sophie Carter, add to his appeal. Blake believes LETS GO CHAMP is overpriced and presents a valuable opportunity. The Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase is another highly competitive race, with SANS BRUIT, trained by Paul Nicholls, seeking to make it three consecutive wins. Despite being dropped 9lb for four below-par runs, SANS BRUIT returned to form last year, winning the race off the same mark as the previous year. This generosity from the handicappers has raised eyebrows, and Blake suggests that if this were to happen in Ireland, the outcome would be different. Nevertheless, SANS BRUIT's chances of winning are high, and he is likely to start as the favorite. The final race of interest is the Goffs Nickel Coin Mares' National Hunt Flat Race, where LENNON GROVE, trained by Gavin Cromwell, catches the eye. This five-year-old has gained valuable experience, including a win at Thurles and a third-place finish in a Listed mares' bumper at Sandown. With the potential for a more forward ride, LENNON GROVE may show significant improvement and is considered overpriced by Blake.