Gordon Elliott Sets Sights on Grand National History with Five-Runner Assault
Irish trainer Gordon Elliott has launched a formidable five-horse challenge for the Grand National on Saturday, following a spectacular opening day at the Aintree meeting. Elliott secured a 15-1 Grade One double on Thursday, positioning himself to potentially claim a fourth victory in the world's most famous steeplechase, which would tie him for the all-time record.
Brighterdaysahead Triumphs in Aintree Hurdle
The highlight of Elliott's successful afternoon was Brighterdaysahead's impressive two-and-a-quarter-length victory over Dan Skelton's The New Lion in the Aintree Hurdle. This win confirmed the form from last month's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, where the pair finished second and third. Notably, Brighterdaysahead has yet to win at Cheltenham in three attempts, but this performance at Aintree marks her second course-and-distance success.
Elliott expressed high hopes for the mare, stating, "She's the apple of all our eyes. I think two and a half miles probably is her trip, and I'd say we're probably going to go chasing next season." He added that a muscle pull prevented her from chasing this year, but he remains optimistic about her future, dismissing concerns over her Cheltenham record.
Competitive Field and Trainer Reactions
Dan Skelton reflected on The New Lion's performance, noting frustration over a sketchy jump at the final flight that hindered his chances. "I'm not crestfallen, just a bit frustrated we didn't get a jump at the last," Skelton said. "I feel like we've got unfinished business. Next year, everyone is a year older, and maybe there are lessons to be learned."
Willie Mullins, who dominated last year's opening day with four Grade One wins, drew a blank this time. Victories went to Koktail Divin in the Manifesto Novice Chase and Nicky Henderson's Jango Baie in the Racing Welfare Bowl, after Mullins's Selma De Vary was narrowly defeated by Elliott's Mange Tout in the juvenile hurdle.
Henderson faced mixed fortunes, with Lulamba unseating jockey Nico de Boinville in the Manifesto Novice Chase, but Jango Baie's win in the Bowl provided redemption. Henderson praised De Boinville's resilience, saying, "To pick yourself up after what happened to Lulamba and then win a Grade One is testament to a Grade One jockey." He highlighted the King George and Gold Cup as key targets for Jango Baie next season.
Grand National Field Adjustments and Preview
The final field for the Grand National has seen adjustments, with Nick Rockett and Spillane's Tower withdrawn, allowing reserves Imperial Saint and Amirite to join the 34-runner lineup. Elliott initially promoted Pied Piper but later ruled him out, ensuring the two reserves secure their spots.
Looking ahead to day two, the Topham Handicap Chase over the Grand National fences is a key betting race. Dan Skelton's Madara, a Cheltenham Plate winner, is a favourite, but historical trends suggest caution, as festival performers have a poor record in this event. Analysts recommend considering horses like Henry de Bromhead's Coming Up Easy for each-way value.
Tips for Friday's races include Emid'io Pepe in the 1.45, Gold Dancer in the 2.20, and Heart Wood in the 3.30, among others, as punters gear up for another exciting day at Aintree.
