Aintree Grand National 2005
The Grand National is one of the biggest betting events in the sporting calendar and this year’s race is proving to be no exception. If you’re tempted to have a punt on any of the runners, its well worth having a look at the spread betting markets that Sporting Index provide.

Hedging Your Bets

Not surprisingly, horses with proven form over Aintree’s demanding fences figure prominently in the betting. This should be one of the most competitive renewals in years, and there are plenty of horses in with a shout. Hedgehunter, the bookies favourite, will be ridden by the fearless Ruby Walsh who was successful on Papillon in 2000.

The main beneficiary of Hedgehunter’s fall last year was Amberleigh House; he’s been out of form this season and has plenty of weight, but Aintree brings out the best in this old boy. Strong Resolve is another genuine contender. Second in the Welsh equivalent to the useful Silver Birch, this improving chaser has been well supported in the past week and is a cracking each-way investment. Similarly, Forest Gunner (a dual course winner and bold jumper) has improved with age and won a valuable National trial at Haydock in February. He’s partnered by female jockey Carrie Ford who rode him to victory around here last April.

Double Honour, trained by Philip Hobbs - who was second with What’s Up Boys in 2002 - is well priced and I think this grey could go one better. He had a look round the course in the Becher Chase in November and has been running well of late. All in all it’s difficult to call, especially with every horse likely to be running from within the handicap. However, if I was having a punt myself I’d favour Hedgehunter for the main bet with a saver on Strong Resolve and Double Honour.

Give the Wife One!

Buy (bet ‘high’ on) any horse in Sporting Index’s Grand National Index for £5 or more, and they’ll give you a free £1 buy of the same horse – for the wife obviously!

To qualify all bets must be placed before the Grand National starts on 9th April. All free bets will be booked at the price the horse starts the race at.


- posted by Doolally @ 12:50 PM