Expert Predictions: Kevin Blake's Top Picks for Grand National

The highly anticipated Grand National day has finally arrived, and Kevin Blake is sharing his expert predictions for the top four finishers in the renowned Aintree race, along with his top bets for other events on the card. Before the main event, there are a couple of races that have caught his attention. The William Hill Handicap Hurdle, scheduled for 13:20, is the first race of interest, where Kevin is opting for an unexposed contender, KAKA'S COUSIN, trained by Jonjo & AJ O'Neill. This six-year-old has shown promise, winning two out of his four hurdle starts, and his recent performance in a competitive novices' handicap hurdle at Sandown was particularly impressive. The step up in trip is expected to suit him, and with a light weight, he is poised to perform well at a favorable price. Another highly competitive event is the William Hill Handicap Chase at 14:30, where CRUZ CONTROL, trained by Tom Lacey, could secure his third consecutive win. Having won the race in 2024 and 2025, he is well-positioned to repeat his success, especially given his connections' strategy to keep him fresh. A 3lb drop in his handicap mark further enhances his chances. Finally, the Randox Grand National at 16:00 takes center stage, and Kevin has analyzed each runner in a video on the At The Races YouTube channel. Here, he provides a concise overview of his top four selections for this iconic sporting spectacle.