Rachael Blackmore has backed Henry de Bromhead to secure his second Grand National winner on Saturday, tipping Monty's Star as a strong contender. The nine-year-old gelding, priced at 16/1, impressed Blackmore with his jumping ability and form, including a second-place finish to Fact To File in the Irish Gold Cup.
Blackmore, who made history as the first female jockey to win the Grand National aboard de Bromhead's Minella Times in 2021, believes Monty's Star has the right profile for the Aintree challenge. 'He's a fantastic jumper, and I think he could run a big race,' she said, adding that de Bromhead only brings horses with a genuine chance.
The favourite, I Am Maximus, seeks a second Grand National win after his 2024 victory and a second-place finish last year. Blackmore acknowledged his strong record but noted that luck plays a crucial role in the 34-horse race. She also mentioned Grangeclare West as a potential contender, following his impressive run in the same prep race as last year's winner Nick Rockett.
However, Blackmore advised caution on Iroko, who has drifted to 10/1 after being ante-post favourite. 'He's going to have to show a bit more to really contend,' she said. For first-time punters, she recommended picking a horse with an intangible appeal, as the Grand National is notoriously difficult to predict.
