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 compelling contenders. After 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 strong contender. Trained by Mags Mullins, this 11-year-old has showcased considerable talent despite a challenging training history. Notably, LETS GO CHAMP has demonstrated impressive form in point-to-points and hunter chases, making him an attractive choice for this event. His racing style, characterized by strong traveling and forward-going, is well-suited for the demands of this race. Furthermore, his jumping technique is particularly adept at navigating these fences. Although his rider, Sophie Carter, will not be able to utilize her claim in this race, she has developed a strong understanding of LETS GO CHAMP, having ridden him to victory in his last two outings. The Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase is another highly competitive event, with SANS BRUIT seeking to make it three consecutive wins. Trained by Paul Nicholls, this horse has been the recipient of remarkably generous handicapping, with the BHA dropping his mark by 9lb after four subpar runs. This leniency has allowed SANS BRUIT to regain his competitive edge, and he is poised to capitalize on this advantageous positioning. The final race of interest is the Goffs Nickel Coin Mares' National Hunt Flat Race, where LENNON GROVE has caught the eye. This five-year-old, trained by Gavin Cromwell, boasts extensive experience, having won a point-to-point and competed in four bumpers. Her third-place finish in a Listed mares' bumper at Sandown in March is particularly noteworthy, as she demonstrated significant late gains despite being held up in rear. With the potential for a more forward ride, LENNON GROVE may yet show further improvement, making her an enticing prospect at her current price.