The Grand National meeting is set to begin on good-to-soft ground, despite an unusually dry spell leading up to the event. The track has been watered extensively, with an average of 60-65mm applied since mid-March. Officials remain committed to maintaining safe conditions for the horses, as they navigate multiple jumps throughout each race.
The weather in March was among the sunniest on record across the UK, making it necessary to continue watering overnight once racing is underway. Some areas of the course have received more water than others to ensure even conditions. The acting clerk of the course stated that watering would continue as needed, with warm and breezy conditions expected to persist.
One advantage for the ground staff is the stability of the current weather pattern, as there is no immediate risk of rainfall affecting the carefully managed surface. The evapotranspiration rate, which measures moisture loss through heat and wind, has been approximately 2mm per day in recent days. The growing grass is also absorbing a significant amount of water, adding another layer of complexity to maintaining the desired conditions.
The course is currently described as good-to-soft on the Grand National track, which will also host the Foxhunters’ Chase and the Topham Handicap Chase. The Mildmay course, where most races will be held, is reported as good-to-soft, with some good patches.
Among the standout races on opening day is the Aintree Hurdle, featuring Constitution Hill. The highly regarded hurdler suffered a shock fall in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham but has reportedly been training well since. His performance in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, where he defeated Lossiemouth, reaffirmed his class. The two-and-a-half-mile trip should not be an issue, as he previously won over the same distance with ease.
Despite Lossiemouth benefiting from a 7lb mares’ allowance, Constitution Hill remains the strong favorite, holding a significant rating advantage. A top price of around 5-6 seems fair for a horse expected to reassert his dominance.
Elsewhere on the card, several exciting contenders are set to compete. In the 1.45 race, Jango Baie, the Arkle winner, steps up in distance and is expected to be well suited by the change. However, Gidleigh Park, who impressed at Windsor in January, could capitalize on any weaknesses.
At 2.20, Puturhandstogether aims to build on a strong Cheltenham performance, but Live Conti, an impressive winner at Wetherby, looks a real threat. Meanwhile, the 2.55 contest sees Grey Dawning returning to top form after a below-par showing in the King George. His strong finish at Kelso suggests he could hold an edge over Spillane’s Tower, who has been given time to recover from a dip in form.
The 4.05 Foxhunters’ Chase features a large field but perhaps less depth than usual beyond the leading contenders. Willitgoahead, who placed third at Cheltenham last month, has solid claims, though Lifetime Ambition could be the one to watch. He was running well in the 2023 Grand National before being hampered by a loose horse.
The final highlight of the day is the 4.40 race, where Petit Tonnerre is expected to thrive with a strong pace. His winning performance at Doncaster in January makes him a major contender, and with just a 5lb increase, he has every chance of success.
