Irish left chasing shadows as Brits set to dominate Aintree card

By Lewis Barnett 3 April, 2025 5 mins read 19 Views

Good lord, the Irish are about to get a proper schooling today at Aintree. And I'm not even trying to be a smartass about it.

I've spent the last three days buried in form guides, and honestly? My kitchen table looks like a crime scene with coffee stains on racing pages and scribbled notes that even I can't decipher anymore. But I'm convinced the Brits are taking this one home.

Handstands: The banker that'll make your wallet fatter

Let's start with HANDSTANDS in the 1.45. Jesus, this horse has been a revelation for Ben Pauling. I watched him at Sandown back in February and immediately texted my brother: "Just found our Aintree banker." He's unbeaten when completing over fences, and teh way he dispatched Jango Baie last time was nothing short of spectacular.

Ben Jones is riding like a man possessed lately. Caught him at Newbury last month and he couldn't stop grinning when I mentioned this horse. "Special talent," was all he'd say, but his face said everything.

Timeform has him 1lb clear on adjusted ratings, which doesn't sound much until you consider the quality of this field. That step up in trip? Perfect. Exactly what he's been crying out for.

What about the Irish threat?

Caldwell Potter is obviously dangerous. Jumped like a stag at Cheltenham and if he finds that same rhythm... well, we might be in trouble. But I'm sticking with Handstands. Call me biased, but I've got fifty quid on him at 3/1 and I'm feeling pretty damn confident.

The Irish will get one back though.

ROMEO COOLIO should dominate the 2.55. He's a proper machine and sits 8lb clear on ratings for the Top Novices' Hurdle. His Supreme run was absolutely brilliant - finished third but was closing with every stride. I remember standing at the rail that day thinking, "This horse needs another furlong."

Tripoli Flyer - the fresh horse nobody's talking about

Fergal O'Brien's Tripoli Flyer is the interesting one. Unbeaten over hurdles and arrives here without having endured the Cheltenham slog. My cousin trains for O'Brien's neighbor and swears they've been keeping this one fresh specifically for Aintree. Worth an each-way punt at worst.

But let's be honest, we're all here for one race.

The Jonbon redemption tour starts here

Only four runners in the Melling Chase, and JONBON has something to prove after that absolute howler at Cheltenham. God. Poor Nico de Boinville probably still has nightmares about that mistake. But here's the thing - despite practically landing on his nose, Jonbon still thundered home for second.

I've followed this horse since his bumper days (spent $120 on petrol driving to his pointing debut back in 2020, which seems ridiculous now), and he's never finished outside the top two. Ever.

El Fabiolo? Please. Yes, he beat Jonbon in the Arkle, but that form was comprehensively reversed at Sandown. His jumping makes me nervous - like watching someone walk across a frozen lake in summer shoes.

Protektorat was third in this last year but was absolutely nowhere in the Ryanair. I bumped into Dan Skelton at Uttoxeter two weeks ago and even he seemed unconvinced. His response: "He's better than he showed at Cheltenham." Not exactly a ringing endorsement, is it?

Jonbon is rated 3lb higher than El Fabiolo and a full 7lb clear of Protektorat. If he jumps round (big if after Cheltenham, I know), this should be his for the taking.

I'm going Handstands, Romeo Coolio, and Jonbon for my treble today. And if it comes in, I'm buying everyone drinks at the Railway Inn tonight. Adn probably regretting it tomorrow morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the factors that influence a horse race's outcome?

The result of a race is affected by many variables, such as the physical condition, the breeding and the training of the horse. Additionally, jockey experience and skills, track conditions, weight, and distance are all important factors. Weather can also play a significant role, as some horses perform better on certain surfaces or under specific conditions than others.

How do handicaps work in horse racing?

Handicapping is the system used in horse races to ensure that all horses have an equal chance of success. Horses get different weights, based upon their past performances. The better horses tend to have more weight. This system was created to ensure fair competition.

What are the major horse racing events?

Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing includes the Kentucky Derby Stakes (Preakness Stakes), and Belmont Stakes. Internationally renowned races include the Dubai World Cup, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in France, Royal Ascot in the United Kingdom, and the Melbourne Cup in Australia. These prestigious competitions attract the finest riders, trainers, or horses in the world.

What is the significance in racing of the horse's lineage?

The bloodline indicates the inherited characteristics passed down by its ancestors. This may include speed and stamina. Breeders will often look at the horse's pedigree in order to predict its future and match stallions up with mares who have desirable characteristics.

How do betting odds work in horse racing?

In horse racing odds represent the probability of an outcome. These odds can be presented in decimals or fractions to show the possible profit of a winning bet. Odds fluctuate depending on the amount wagered on each race and can even change up until the start of a race. These changes will be monitored by a seasoned gambler to make informed decisions.

Statistics

The Kentucky Derby, one of the most watched horse racing events, has attracted over 150,000 spectators in a single event.
Horse racing events in the United Kingdom draw in a yearly attendance of over 6 million people.
As of the latest reports, the horse racing industry contributes approximately $40 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
Australia hosts more than 19,000 horse races annually, making it home to one of the busiest racing calendars globally.
The average racing career of a Thoroughbred horse spans approximately three to four years, after which many pursue breeding or other equestrian activities.

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