Expert Tips for Aintree Day One: Kevin Blake's Top Picks at 12/1, 11/1, and 3/1

The highly anticipated Grand National Festival commences at Aintree on Thursday, featuring four prestigious Grade One events. Renowned expert Kevin Blake shares his top selections for the day, including LETS GO CHAMP, SANS BRUIT, and LENNON GROVE. Following a prolonged winter, the Grand National Festival has finally arrived, bringing with it an exciting few days of racing action. As the rain has subsided and the Aintree tracks have been thoroughly watered, the stage is set for a thrilling competition. After a successful outing at the Cheltenham Festival, Kevin Blake aims to replicate that success this week. The inaugural race of the week, the Randox Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase, takes place on Thursday at 3:30. LETS GO CHAMP, trained by Mags Mullins, is a compelling contender. Despite facing training challenges in the past, this 11-year-old has consistently demonstrated his talent. He has shown significant improvement throughout his career, including a notable victory in a valuable handicap chase at the Punchestown Festival two years ago. LETS GO CHAMP has recently made a successful transition to hunter chasing, achieving victories in point-to-points and the prestigious Tetratema Cup Hunters Chase at Gowran Park. His racing style, characterized by strong traveling and forward-going at mid-range trips, makes him well-suited for this contest. Additionally, his excellent jumping technique and the familiarity of his rider, Sophie Carter, contribute to his appeal. Considering his current odds, LETS GO CHAMP appears to be an attractive option. The Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase, scheduled for 4:40, is expected to be a highly competitive event. However, SANS BRUIT, trained by Paul Nicholls, has dominated this race in recent years, winning the last two renewals. The BHA handicapping team has played a significant role in his success, applying generous marking adjustments. After winning the race in 2024 with a mark of 130, SANS BRUIT was subsequently dropped 9lb for four subpar performances, allowing him to win the event again the following year. This season, the handicappers have once again been lenient, dropping SANS BRUIT 11lb for five respectable runs. As a result, he is poised to make a strong bid for a third consecutive victory in the Red Rum Handicap Chase. While his treatment by the handicappers may raise questions, SANS BRUIT's chances of winning are undeniable. The final race of interest is the Goffs Nickel Coin Mares' National Hunt Flat Race, scheduled for 5:15. In this event, Kevin Blake favors LENNON GROVE, a five-year-old Irish-trained horse. With a wealth of experience, including a point-to-point win and four bumper races, LENNON GROVE has demonstrated her potential. Her most notable performance was a third-place finish in a Listed mares' bumper at Sandown in March, where she made significant late gains despite being held up in rear. Given her impressive record and the likelihood of a more forward ride, LENNON GROVE is expected to show improvement and appears to be overpriced.