Day Two At Aintree

It is day two of the Grand National meeting from Aintree today and there are supporting cards from Fontwell over the sticks as well as flat fixtures from Leicester and Wolverhampton.  The stable is represented by Dell' Arca, Ainsi Fideles, Poole Master, Monetaire and Standing Ovation at Aintree as well as Vayland at Fontwell.  It looks like another high class meeting at Aintree - the ground seemed quite quick yesterday and course officials have watered overnight which should help.  Looking through the Aintree card, I notice that Monetaire (pictured above) is vying for favouritism at odds of around 10/1 for the Topham Chase over the National fences at 4.05pm.  It is a thirty runner handicap chase in which we also run Poole Master and Standing Ovation and I think we have a big chance.

Ainsi Fideles has been in great form this season since switching to the larger obstacles, winning seven of his eight starts and finishing runner-up in the other.  This looks to represent another step-up in class, although he could be up to it.  Over at the other meeting Vayland looks to have a good chance in the first race at Fontwell.  Conditional jockey Kieron Edgar takes a handy 5lbs off his back.

What an amazing run from Ballynagour to just be touched off in the Betfred Bowl at Aintree yesterday afternoon behind Silviniaco Conti.  He made a bad mistake four out and I think that has made the difference between winning and losing.  Even so, this was a fabulous performance back up in grade and he proved conclusively that he stayed the trip very well.

Ruby Walsh was stood down following a couple of nasty falls yesterday - he looked the likeliest winner when Arctic Fire capsized at the last handing Aintree Hurdle victory to A P McCoy and Jezki.  Talk about the up's and down's of racing - Walsh had won the opening race on the card, but was unable to take his later mounts.

I am pleased to report that the weather looks to be set fair ahead of Ladies' day at Aintree...I will say no more other than I am looking forward to it enormously!

Talking of Aintree, Clare Balding will not be there to cover the Grand National this year - she will be covering the boat race instead.  There are a lot fewer runners in the boat race!  I am sure she will do a great job as she is the consummate professional.

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There was a great round from Justin Rose in the first round of the US Masters as he shot a five under par round.  Meanwhile, Tiger Woods didn't look to be hitting the ball very straight especially from the tee and he already looks to be out of it.  My bets on Rose and David Casey are looking good at the moment, although there are still three rounds to go!

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Finally, a couple of thoughts for the day...did you know that high heels were invented by a woman who had been kissed on the forehead?!

Talk is cheap because supply exceeds demand!

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